Chapter 4
What to do if you experience sexual violence
If you have experienced sexual violence, there are some important steps you can take.
Go to a safe place as soon as you can.
Do not bathe, shower, douche, use the toilet, brush your teeth, or change clothing. Place items in a paper bag, preserve text messages and photos.
Your friend can also accompany you to the emergency room.
It is important to make sure that you are physically ok, and to address any concerns about pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. This is the time to collect and preserve evidence, and can only be done within 96 hours of the assault. If you think you've been drugged, it is important to provide a urine sample as soon as possible as drugs pass out of the body quickly.
You are encouraged to report it to the police. If you are unsure about reporting, you can contact the Gender Equity Center to learn more about your options by speaking with a confidential advocate.
They can help you understand your feelings and begin the process of resolution and healing.