There is no “right way” of dealing with sexual violence. Each individual needs to do what seems right for him or her at the time. Many survivors experience a combination of emotions such as shock, confusion, fear, anger, helplessness, self-blame, guilt, embarrassment, shame, numbness and disbelief.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were formerly referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). STIs cannot be diagnosed immediately following an act of sexual violence. Although you may have received preventative medications for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, follow up testing is highly recommended one month after the sexual assault and 90 days later for syphilis testing. The Fort Wayne Allen County Department of Health offers STI testing.
You may be wondering what a medical forensic examination is. We will briefly list what is included in your examination below.
At the time of a sexual assault, survival is often the only choice. We would like to give you options for your healthcare needs. A forensic nurse examiner is available to go over each option in depth with you 24 hours a day. The following are your 3 options:
