women s health issues
Sexual Assault and Rape
Introduction
Sexual assault is any type of sexual activity or contact that a person does not consent to. Sexual assault, including rape, may cause physical injury or illness or psychologic trauma. Survivors should be evaluated for injury, sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, and acute or posttraumatic stress disorders; they are asked to give permission for an examination to collect evidence. Treatment includes infection prophylaxis and mental health care. Sexually assault victims may have tears in their genitals or anus, cuts and bruises, upsetting emotions, and difficulty sleeping. Sexually transmitted infections, infection with the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), and pregnancy are risks. People who are raped should be thoroughly evaluated in a center staffed by specially trained people (rape center). Treatment of physical injuries, vaccinations and antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, emergency contraception, and counseling or psychotherapy are often needed. If possible, family members and close friends should meet with a member of the rape crisis team to discuss how to support the rape victim. Rapeis typically considered to be any penetration of the vagina or anus with any body part or object or penetration of the mouth with another person's sex organ when the person does not or cannot consent to it (called nonconsensual sexual contact). Consent cannot be given by a person who is incapacitated (because they are intoxicated or have mental or physical limitations). In people younger than the age of consent, penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth—whether wanted or not—is considered rape (statutory rape). Typically, rape is an expression of aggression, anger, or the need for power and control rather than being sexually motivated. Many people who are raped are also physically beaten and/or injured. Sexual assaultis a broader term. It is defined as any type of sexual activity or contact that a person does not consent to. Sexual assault may include the use of force and threats to coerce any sexual contact. The victim is a person who does not consent or who cannot consent because they are incapacitated. Victims of rape and sexual assault include people of all genders. However, women and girls have the highest rates of being raped and sexually assaulted. The reported percentage of women who have been raped during their lifetime varies widely—from 2% to almost 30%. Reported percentages are probably lower than the actual percentages because rape and sexual abuse are less likely to be reported to the police than are other crimes. Men who are raped are more likely than women to be physically injured, to be unwilling to report the assault, and to have several assailants. 