What to do if you're sexually assaulted:

The term sexual assault refers to sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the victim.

You never want to think about a worst-case scenario happening to you -- but the scary truth is that one in six women will experience an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime. And if you or a friend is assaulted, you may not be sure what to do next. Here are a few key steps you can take to stay safe, seek help, and start the healing process.

Suspected cases of child sexual abuse by a family and/or household member should be reported to the Department of Human Services Child Welfare Services. Call (808) 832-5300.

Medical care and evidence collection

1. Although going to the hospital after a sexual assault may feel overwhelming, it’s a safe place to get help. A SATC crisis worker will stay with you the entire time.

2. A Medical Forensic Examination is available to adults and minors, females and males. Examinations are done within 120 hours of a sexual assault at Kapi'olani Medical Center for Women & Children. Medical care following a sexual assault is important even if you have no visible injuries. This service:

• Ensures proper medical attention and addresses concerns about the risks of sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, and HIV.

• Collects and preserves evidence, even if you don’t want to report the assault to the police. Sometimes victims decide to pursue legal action later.

3. The examination is done at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children (1319 Punahou Street).

4. You can bring a friend or relative to the hospital for support.

5. You can receive the examination even if you don’t want to report the incident to police.
Interpreters are available for those who have limited English ability or for the hearing impaired.

6. Crisis counseling is provided by the SATC crisis worker during the medical exam.
If you’re a female, be aware that all Hawai'i hospitals are required to provide information about and access to emergency contraception following a sexual assault, regardless if you choose not to undergo a medical forensic examination or choose not to report the sexual assault to law enforcement.

7. There is NO COST for the Medical Forensic Examination or crisis counseling. For more information, visit: Medical Forensic Examination

 

What if the assault happened a while ago?

Call the SATC hotline (808) 524-7273 (or use web chat) and a SATC crisis worker can help you decide on the best course of action and your reporting options. You may still be able to report the assault to the police if it is within the statute of limitations.

If you’re worried about sexually transmitted infections, HIV, or other medical concerns, even if it’s been over 120 hours since the assault, it’s important to seek medical care. Adults can seek care from a private physician or nearby medical clinic. The SATC has a Pediatric Sexual Abuse Clinic for anyone under the age of 18.

 



Hotline Services

If you, a friend, or a family member has been sexually assaulted, call us for help. Trained SATC crisis workers are on duty 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to provide confidential support, information, and advocacy.

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Medical Care

Medical care following a sexual assault is important even if you have no visible injuries. Medical Care is available to adults and minors, females and males.

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Crisis Counseling

A sexual assault can be a devastating physical and emotional experience. Dealing with the trauma of a sexual assault can be difficult as many emotions arise.

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Clinical Therapy

The SATC provides individual and family therapy, victim support services, and legal systems advocacy for children, adolescents, and adults. We have experienced professional therapists to help with your healing.

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