Rape

Healthy relationships are about consent and respect. Rape has nothing to do with love, passion or sex between two partners.

“I didn’t say no or try to fight, so was I raped?”

Most victims are raped by someone they already know; a friend, partner, co-worker, boy/girlfriend, or even a spouse. This can be confusing at times, because you may already have some type of relationship with the person that assaulted you.

It is still rape:

• If you are under the age of consent
• If you are are forced or threatened
• If you are drugged or “roofied”
• If you are unconscious (drugged, drunk, asleep)
• If you are fearful of physical harm from your attacker and don’t protest

If you choose to have a medical exam, keep the following in mind:

• You have the right to an advocate (supportive helper) throughout the process
• For the purposes of the medical exam and collecting evidence, do not shower, brush your teeth, or douche
• Bring any evidence (for example, the clothes you were wearing)
• If you think you may have been drugged, alert medical personnel
• Know that some “date rape drugs” exit the body fairly quickly, within 8 hours
• If you are able, don’t urinate (pee) until the exam

If you are unsure what to do call the Minnesota Day One Crisis Hotline, 1.866.223.1111.There are advocates available in your area that can help you find local resources and can support you in your process, whatever it may be (i.e. reporting, seeking medical attention, talking with an advocate, or just sharing your story).