After a sexual assault, it is important to get checked for possible injuries and/or pregnancy and get treated for sexually-transmitted infections regardless of how long it has been since the assault. Victims can seek medical help at any time. However, the days immediately after the assault are the only time DNA evidence of the assault can be collected. It is also the only time any substances (sometimes called date-rape drugs) can be detected.
All victims of sexual assault have a right under Michigan law to
have a medical forensic examination and evidence kit collected up to five days
after the assault.
Medical evaluation after child sexual abuse can involve a
wellness check, testing and care for sexual transmitted infections, and
forensic evidence collection if the abuse was recent.
There are a variety of healthcare providers who can help
you after a sexual assault. Find the one who is right for you or a loved one.
If you received the sexual assault medical forensic
examination and evidence collection within five days of the assault, you are
not responsible for the cost of the examination including co-pays or
deductibles.
An STI is an infection passed from one person to another
through vaginal, anal, or oral contact. STIs can infect a person of any age or
gender.
Follow-up care is very important. Any sexually
transmitted infection that you may have contracted will not show up until
later. A follow-up test for pregnancy is also recommended.
