What should I do if I am sexually assaulted?


* Find a safe environment - anywhere away from the attacker. Ask a trusted friend to stay with you for moral support. If the assault is domestic in nature (your attacker is a spouse, family member or live-in partner), you may be eligible to stay at the YWCA or your area shelter. The YWCA can also assist with developing a safety plan, an outline of which is available on their web site.

* Call the Rape Recovery Center's 24-hour crisis line at 467-7273 or the statewide 24-hour crisis line at 1-888- 421-1100.

* Get medical attention. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risks of STDs and pregnancy. Planned Parenthood offers health care on a sliding-fee scale.

* Remember it wasn't your fault.

* Recognize that healing from rape takes time. Give yourself the time you need.

* Know that it's never too late to call the Rape Recovery Center. Many victims do not realize they need help until months or years later.

If you decide that you would like to report the sexual assault to law enforcement:

* A Rape Recovery Center volunteer or staff member can help you to understand the criminal justice process. Call the RRC 24-hr crisis line for more information.

* Preserve evidence of the attack - don't bathe or brush your teeth. Write down all the details you can recall about the attack & the attacker.

* To preserve forensic evidence - go to a hospital or clinic to have a rape kit exam. The Rape Recovery Center can help identify the appropriate medical facility.

* If you suspect you may have been drugged, do not urinate before going to the medical facility and ask that a urine sample be collected ASAP. The sample will need to be analyzed later on by a forensic lab.