We offer free medical advocacy for all survivors
who have been sexually assaulted. This includes
accompaniments to the hospital as well as referrals
for ongoing medical care.
After a Sexual Assault
It is often important to receive medical attention from a health care provider after an assault.
This can be addressed in one of two ways:
- Local hospital emergency rooms
The hospital is capable of collecting evidence, generally within the first five days after an assault, as well as testing for and treating STD's. Many hospitals also offer the "morningafter pill" to prevent a pregnancy. It is important to remember not to take a shower if one is concerned about collecting evidence. A person should bring his or her clothes to the hospital in a brown paper bag. one should not be denied care if s/he does not have health insurance.
- Health clinics and primary care physicians
Many people feel more comfortable seeing their own physician, however, it is important to know that a private doctor will most likely be unable to collect evidence. Please call for referrals.
HIV may be a concern for some survivors. An HIV test may be performed, but it may take up to six weeks for HIV antibodies to show up in the blood. Please call for referrals for HIV testing and care.
Date Rape Drugs
- Common date rape drugs include Rohypnol "Roofies"), GHB, and Ketamine ("Special K").
- These drugs are often slipped into a person's drink without their knowledge. Perpetrators may then assault a person who is drugged.
- Common symptoms of date rape drug ingestion include blackout periods, memory loss, appearance of extreme intoxication although the person may have consumed a small amount, dizziness and confusion.
- If one suspects that s/he has been drugged, s/he should get to a safe place and seek medical attention as soon as possible. At the hospital, a person can be tested for drugs within 2472 hours. The drug passes with urine, so one should try not to urinate until s/he reaches the hospital.
For more information, please call:
- Rape Crisis Hotline: 800.542.5212
- Hoffman LaRoche Drug Testing Hotline: 800.608.6540
- Rohypnol Info Line: 888.297.5830
