101 Things You Can Do To Prevent Sexual Assault

Pledge to End Sexual Violence

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Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault

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If You Have Been Sexually Assaulted

Sexual Assault Glossary of Terms

Survivor Information

Victim Services

If you have been sexually assaulted and are looking for assistance, please consider the following:

  • Go to a safe place. If you are injured, seek emergency medical attention. Call the police or 911. If you can, call someone you trust for emotional support. You can also call 1-800-656-HOPE to contact a local rape crisis center in your area.
  • It is critical you seek medical attention within 72 hours. Valuable evidence of the assault remains on your body and clothes. Do not shower or bathe. Do not change your clothes. Do not eat, drink, smoke, comb your hair, brush your teeth, urinate, defecate, or douche before going to the emergency room.
  • However, if you have already done these things, please don't let this stop you from seeking medical care. If you’ve changed clothes, place the clothes you were wearing during the assault in a paper bag and take them to the hospital with you.
  • If you believe you were given a date rape drug wait to urinate until you arrive at the hospital. However, if you can't wait, collect your first urine in a clean container with a lid and take it to the emergency room or police station with you. Also, be sure to tell the emergency room personnel your symptoms and that you believe you were given a date rape drug so they can take the necessary samples.
  • Seek medical attention. A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) can check for injuries that may not be visible. The SANE nurse can also treat you for possible STDs and provide medication to prevent pregnancy (Emergency Contraception). The SANE nurse may also perform a rape exam to collect evidence. This exam is similar to a pelvic exam performed by a gynecologist. However, this exam is a forensic exam designed to collect evidence for prosecution, and is coordinated with the police who will ask you to file a report. Please note that filing a police report is not the same as filing charges. Be prepared however, to answer personal and difficult questions about what happened. It is important to answer honestly and fully, even if you were engaged in an illegal activity when the assault occurred. Remember, this was not your fault. No one asks to be sexually assaulted.
  • Consider counseling. You have been through a traumatic experience and may need help dealing with your feelings. Your local rape crisis center can assist you with finding counseling and/or support groups.