SVC 24-Hour Crisis Line: 612-871-5111
If you are in immediate danger call: 911
You Are Not Alone
If you’ve experienced an assault, whether it was just recently or years ago—or even if you’re unsure what happened—know that our advocates are here to listen. Call us at (612) 871-5111. No one should ever force or pressure you into sexual touch or attention, and if that has happened to you, it’s understandable to feel sad, angry, confused, or afraid.
The first few days after a sexual assault can be overwhelming and confusing. You might have many questions and face difficult decisions, and it’s okay if you’re not ready to make those decisions right away. This is completely normal.
Whatever you’re feeling right now is valid. What happened to you was not your fault. We’re here to support you and help you figure out what feels right for you at this moment.
If You Were Just Assaulted
You might be overwhelmed, but we are here for you.
Emergency Rooms & Directions: Carver County | Hennepin County | Scott County
Exams are available to anyone who was sexually assaulted regardless of alcohol consumption, drug use, sex work, gender and/or immigration status. Sometimes after an assault, you might not want to go to the emergency room, and we understand. You can call us to talk about it, we are happy to help you figure out what feels right for you, make sure you know your options, and answer your questions.
You can choose not to go to the emergency room and still get support by calling our hotline.
- You have the option to be examined and cared for at the hospital. The sooner you get to a hospital after an assault, the more options you’ll have.
- Even if you do not have any physical injuries, you will have access to medication to prevent pregnancy and certain sexually transmitted infections.
- Some hospitals have specialized nurses to perform forensic exams. An advocate may even be able to meet you at the hospital.
- If you want to preserve evidence, try not to bathe, shower, eat, drink, or use the restroom. If you have already done these things, that’s okay—it’s still possible to gather evidence.
- You have the option of bringing the clothing and underwear you were wearing during the assault. Put your clothes in a clean paper bag, such as a grocery store bag, and bring them with you to the emergency room.
What is going to happen when I get to the emergency room?
Tell the staff when you check in that you were sexually assaulted and they call in a specially-trained nurse to meet with you. The nurse will do an exam, treat injuries, and offer medications for sexually transmitted infections and to prevent pregnancy. If you go to the emergency room within 72 hours of your assault, you can also get medication that can help prevent HIV.
During your exam, your nurse will collect evidence for what is called a “rape kit.” The evidence should be collected within 7-10 days if you think you might want to make a police report.
Sexual Assault Kit Testing: What Victim/Survivors Need to Know
What if I don’t want to talk to the police?
You get to decide if, and when, you want to contact law enforcement to file a report.
You can go to the hospital without talking to the police, and your nurse can collect evidence through a forensic exam without having to file a police report. You don’t have to decide on reporting right away, and the evidence collected will be saved for when you are ready to decide.
If you want to talk about it, give us a call at (612) 871-5111. Our advocates can help you through the process of making a report if you decide you want to file one.
Who pays for the exam?
Under Minnesota law, the state is responsible for the cost of collecting evidence during your medical forensic examination. The state must pay regardless of whether or not you report to law enforcement.
Additional medical treatments, such as optional medications or care for more serious injuries, may need to be covered by you or your insurance, depending on your agreement. Costs can vary based on your county, hospital, and specific situation.
- It is best to visit your primary care doctor to receive medical care.
- Preventative treatment for pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections can still be effective!
- You still have the option of reporting to the police. There is no time limit.
Regardless of the decisions you make, we are always here to support you. There is no “right” way to move forward.
No One Should Have to Navigate Alone
Sexual violence affects people of all genders, ages, races, religions, incomes, abilities, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. We are here for elders, immigrants, people with disabilities, sex workers, those experiencing homelessness, and individuals with criminal records. Our commitment is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, receives the support they deserve if they have experienced sexual violence.
We extend our support to friends and family members affected by sexual violence as well. We understand that the impact of sexual violence reaches beyond individuals directly affected, and we are here to provide assistance and guidance to those who are supporting their loved ones.
What is sexual violence?
At SVC, we have a two-part definition of sexual violence…
- Any time sexual behavior or contact is used as a weapon to gain power and control over someone else.
- Any sexual behavior or contact in which one is tricked, forced or coerced into.
It can take many forms, including:
- Rape or sexual assault
- Sexual harassment
- Unwanted sexual contact or touching
- Child sexual abuse and incest
- Sexual abuse by a caregiver
- Exposing one’s genitals to others without consent
- Stalking
- Masturbating in public
- Sex trafficking or exploitation
- Sharing private pictures without consent
- Stealthing (non-consensual condom removal)
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these, support is available.
We focus our services on people ages 12+ in Carver, Hennepin, and Scott counties. If you are younger or live somewhere else, we won’t turn you away. We are still here to listen and help you find resources. You can also visit rapehelpmn.com to see what other services might be available to you.
Translators Are Available
Sexual Violence Center services are accessible to everyone regardless of language spoken. If we do not have access to an interpreter or translator, we will refer you to an agency that may better suit your needs.
Additional resources: