HAVIN provides services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. All services are free and confidential.
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800-841-8881
Go to a safe place. Call someone you trust for emotional support. You can contact HAVIN 1-800-841-8881
Do not shower. Valuable evidence of the assault remains on your body and clothes. Do not eat, drink, smoke, comb your hair, shower, 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. Also, do not change clothes after the assault. Take a change of clothes with you to the emergency room. However, if you have already done so, place the clothes you were wearing during the assault in a paper bag and take them to the hospital with you.
Seek medical attention. A doctor or nurse can check for injuries that may not be visible. Hospital staff can also treat you for possible STDs and provide medication to prevent pregnancy (Emergency Contraception). Hospital staff may also perform a rape exam to collect evidence.
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.
survivors of sexual violence also have the choice to:Report the assault to the police. Consider notifying the police of the assault. Doing so may help you feel empowered after the assault and may alert the police to the perpetrator. Please be aware that if you go to the hospital, staff will most likely report the assault to the police. It is up to you, however, to decide if you want to talk to the officer or not.
Seek counseling. You have been through a traumatic experience and may need help dealing with your feelings. Call HAVIN 1-800-841-8881 or call 1-888-772-PCAR for a crisis center in PA near you.
