You must see a doctor as soon as possible after a rape incident. If you go to a police station first, the police will arrange for you to see a doctor.

Alternatively, you could go directly to a hospital or a district surgeon. Many general practitioners are not trained to examine rape survivors or to complete the necessary documentation.

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Don’t change your clothes, bath, shower or douche before you see the doctor since this might remove evidence.

When reporting the incident to the police, you may request to speak to a woman police officer in a private area. You have a choice to report the incident or lay a formal charge. Ask the police for a reference number (occurrence book number) and a case number. Also ask for the name of the investigating officer.

The doctor should do the following:

• Speak to you in a private place; you may have a companion present.
• Make notes of all details of the rape, and do a thorough examination.
• Test for HIV, syphilis and immunity against Hepatitis B.
• Treat any injuries you have.
• Provide emergency contraception, antibiotics and antiretroviral medication to prevent HIV infection. Antiretrovirals should preferably be taken within six to 24 hours.
• Arrange for support from a counselor or support group.

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