If you experience sexual assault there are some important things to do.  The following is a list of helpful things to do id you experience a sexual assault:

• Remember that sexual assault is not your fault.  No one deserves to be raped or assaulted.
• Get to a safe place.  Your safety is your first priority.
• If the assault took place in the past 48 hours do not change clothes.  If you have already changed clothes do not discard or launder them.  That clothing becomes evidence.
• Do not shower, bathe, or brush your teeth.  Any of these activities will wash away valuable evidence.
• Seek medical care at a hospital emergency room.  You will be examined to determine if you have been injured.  Additionally you will be tested for possible sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.  An evidence recovery kit may also be required.  The hospital will notify the police.  You can choose not to talk with law enforcement.
• Call RCASA for a companion at the hospital, or for crisis intervention and support while dealing with the aftermath of the sexual assault.
• Seek professional counseling.  RCASA can make informed referrals to a variety of allied professionals.