Sexual Abuse or Rape

Topic Overview

Sexual abuse or rape can happen to anyone. You are not to blame. Sexual abuse is any type of sexual activity that is done against your will. It can include nontouching sexual exposure (such as being forced to look at sexual pictures) , unwanted or forced sexual touching, attempted rape, or rape. The attacker may be a stranger, someone you do not know well, a close friend, or a family member (incest). Many victims of abuse or rape know their attacker.

It is often hard for people to talk about sexual abuse or rape. The abused person often feels shame or guilt and may be too afraid of the abuser to say anything. But it is important to seek help and then continue to get help for as long as you need it. Talk to the police or to a health professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or counselor. Or call a local rape crisis center. Any of these people can help you get medical treatment, deal with your feelings, and take steps to stop the abuser or rapist.

Sexual abuse

Sexual abuse can be verbal, visual, or anything that forces a person to join in unwanted sexual contact. Examples of sexual abuse include forcing a person to:

• Look at a naked body or naked genital area.
• Watch, look at, or be a part of sexual pictures.
• Watch a sexual act, such as masturbation.
• Be touched (fondled).
• Have sexual contact, such as sexual intercourse.
• Have an object placed into the vagina or anus.

Rape

Rape is any forced sexual intercourse against another person's will. This can include intercourse in the vagina, anus, or mouth. Many times violence or fear is used to force the person to have sex. Rape can hurt you physically and emotionally.

Review the Emergencies and Check Your Symptoms sections to determine if and when you need to see a health professional.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated August 28, 2007
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Brigid McCaw, MD, MS, MPH, FACP - Family Violence Prevention
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