If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, there is a possibility that you may be pregnant, or you may have been given a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Sexually transmitted infections
STIs can be caught by vaginal, anal or oral contact with someone who has the infection. They can also sometimes be passed on shared sex toys. STI’s can affect men, women or children. They often have no symptoms.
Some STIs are difficult to diagnose without a medical check-up. It’s important that you get tested as soon as possible and don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Most STIs can be treated easily and effectively, usually with a short course of antibiotics. You can be tested for STI’s at your closest Devon & Cornwall SARC.
You can find out more about sexually transmitted infections by contacting the Devon & Cornwall SARC helpline on 0300 3034626 or by visiting your nearest sexual health clinc.
Devon Sexual Health has clinics in Exeter, Barnstaple and Torquay. You can find out more about its services here.
You can find out more about Cornwall sexual health services here.
Emergency contraception
If you have been raped, there is a chance that you may be pregnant, even if the person who assaulted you didn’t come (ejaculate) inside you. Staff at the SARC can advise you on different types of emergency contraception and their effectiveness. In some cases they may issue you with emergency contraception on the spot. Or they may refer you to a sexual health clinic where specially trained and sympathetic staff can also help you.
If you are in Plymouth, you can get help and advice on sexual health from yourship.
If you are in Cornwall, you can get help and advice about sexual health from Cornwall Sexual Health.
If you are in Devon and Torbay, you can get help and advice from Devon Sexual Health