I was raped, and I’m worried about pregnancy and STDs. What should I do?

By Amy @ Planned Parenthood | Oct. 13, 2010, 4:03 p.m.

I have recently been raped. I honestly do not know how to handle the situation. I have been badly hurt in my past and this just made me hit my limit. I am so scared that I could be pregnant or have an STD. What should I do?

A woman who has been raped and is concerned about the possibility of unintended pregnancy may want to consider emergency contraception (EC). EC must be started within 120 hours — five days — after unprotected intercourse. The sooner it is started, the more effective it will be.

She may also request treatment for certain sexually transmitted infections that she may have been exposed to. This kind of treatment is called post-exposure prophylaxis. It can be used to prevent chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis, syphilis, and, most importantly, HIV/AIDS.

To reach your local Planned Parenthood health center for information about EC, post-exposure prophylaxis, and support groups and counseling for rape survivors, contact your local Planned Parenthood health center.

Rape can be a very traumatic experience and very painful and difficult to deal with. Many young people who have been raped find that talking to a health care provider, counselor, or other trusted adult can help them make decisions and deal with their feelings and circumstances. Many find support groups or individual therapy to be helpful. Support groups and individual therapy can provide a place where fears and concerns can be safely expressed and explored.

A nearby Planned Parenthood health center may be able to provide information about support groups or individual therapy for rape survivors. You may also want to contact the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network at 1-800-656-HOPE for additional information and support.

Tags: STDs, pregnancy, emergency contraception, rape, sexual assault, morning after pill