Southside Center for Violence Prevention

Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual contact. It may include touching, kissing, oral sex, anal sex, vaginal sex, or other sexual acts. It can happen to anyone at any time in his or her life. In Virginia, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 8 men have been sexually abused at some time in their lives. (Virginia Department of Health).

What you should know

• Sexual assault can happen at any time.
• Although one may be married, they can still be sexually assaulted by their partner.
• Sexual assault is under-reported.
• If at anytime you feel as if you are being pressured to have sex, you are.
• No one has the right to force you.

What if it happens to me?

• Get to a safe place.
• Do not feel ashamed or embarassed.
• Do not shower, bathe, brush teeth, or wash clothes - this may destroy evidence.
• Gather clothing, sheets, or other things that may hold forensic evidence.
• Call the police to make a report or to receive transportation to the hospital.
• If you make a report, request a protective order if the abuser is known.
• If you do not want to call the police you can call your local sexual assault crisis center for help.
• Go to the emergency room and request a PERK Exam (Physical Evidence Recovery Kit). Even though you request an exam, you do not have to report it to the police, nor do you have to pay for it.
• A PERK Exam is a tool used to obtain forensic evidence from a sexual assault in case charges are filed. In addition, the Sexual Assault Nurse can check the victim for injuries or pregnancy.