France may introduce changes to its rape law to include consent for the first time, after a mass rape trial shook the country, challenging the limits of existing legislation and prompting some leading politicians to call for change.

The sensational trial of 50 men accused of raping an unwitting and unconscious French woman who was repeatedly drugged by her husband has exposed what critics say is a dark rape culture in the country.

A 72-year-old woman has taken the stand in France where her husband is on trial for enlisting dozens of strangers to rape her.

Ms Pelicot says "shame must change sides" and has waived her right to anonymity in the hope she can give courage to other rape victims.

Grandmother Gisele Pelicot takes the stand in mass rape trial of her ex-husband in France with a message to other rape survivors.

Gisèle Pelicot takes the stand in the trial in which her ex-husband is accused of drugging her and inviting dozens of men to rape her.

Woman at the centre of horrifying mass rape trial that has shaken France is due to address the court. Gisèle Pelicot is expected to take the stand at about 11am local time. Through her lawyer, she commented on the testimony of the wife of one of the accused men this morning.