Hesperian Health Guides
Rape and sexual violence
A person who has been raped will need first aid for any physical injuries. Emotional support and care is also very important. Treat people who have been raped with kindness and understanding, do not blame them.
Someone who was raped may find it difficult for you to look at or touch their body, so explain what you will be doing as you begin each step of your examination or treatment. Ask for permission each time before touching.
Rape and sexual assault can cause pregnancy. Emergency contraception (using special pills, certain IUDs, or some types of birth control pills) can prevent pregnancy when used within 5 days of sex.
Rape and sexual assault can also spread STIs. Health workers can provide medicines that prevent HIV (called post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP) and treat other STIs.
If the anus or genitals have tears, cuts, or bruises, these will be painful. Give paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen. If there is a lot of bleeding in the anus or vagina, show how to use pressure to stop it, in case bleeding starts again later.
For small cuts and tears, soak in warm water 3 times a day. Pouring water over the genitals while passing urine may help reduce discomfort. Larger cuts or tears may need to be sutured.
Look for injuries to other areas of the body as well, and see other parts of this chapter to treat specific problems. A record of the physical exam and any injuries is necessary if the case is reported to the police, even if a decision to go to the police is not made until much later.
Follow up with the person after a few days to see how they are doing emotionally and physically. Check cuts or tears for signs of infection. Bladder infections are especially common for women after forced or violent sex. Pain or a burning sensation while passing urine, and feeling like you need to pass urine very often, are common signs of bladder infection.