RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

At Galway Rape Crisis Centre, our statistics show quite consistently over the years that in between 80 and 90 percent of all cases reported to us, rapists are previously known to the woman or man attacked, and are often in a position of trust, which they abuse. Fathers, brothers, husbands, ex-partners, friends, acquaintances, employers, teachers and even clergy rape. In most cases, the person who was raped will be either emotionally manipulated, or threatened not to tell. Sexual violence is an underreported crime which we believe from the reports that we have had is all too common. Rape is never your fault.

Most often women are raped, but rape also happens to men.

What is sexual assault and what is rape?

Sexual assault is an act of physical, psychological and emotional violation, in the form of a sexual act, which is inflicted on someone without consent. It can involve forcing or manipulating someone to witness or participate in any sexual acts.

Rape is penetration (however slight) of the mouth, anus or vagina with an object or the penis without consent.

Examples for sexual assault are:

⇒ Being made to look at pornography

⇒ Being touched in a sexual way. This can involve touching of breasts or genital areas.

⇒ Being verbally assaulted, with inappropriate comments of a sexual nature.

⇒ Attempted rape, as in attempted oral, anal or vaginal penetration

Not all rapes, and not all sexual assaults are necessarily physically violent. Nevertheless, any act of sexual violence can affect someone's life very deeply. If you have been raped or assaulted, you deserve support.

MEDICAL CARE

Medical care is vital after an attack/rape.

You need immediate medical attention by a GP or casualty department, even if you do not have any symptoms.

We strongly recommend you call the gardai who will bring you to the newly established SATU unit, where this vital medical care will be provided.
Availing of this does not oblige you to report the rape. Gardai will take a basic statement, but you will have the right to decide later whether or not to go ahead with this.

⇒ You might have physical symptoms such as cuts, infections, bruises etc. in affected areas.

⇒ You need to check for sexually transmitted diseases and the HIV virus, which can lead to AIDS.

⇒ You need to have a pregnancy test six weeks after your last period.

⇒ You might choose to take the morning after pill to avoid pregnancy. You can take the MAP within 72 hours of the rape.

EMOTIONAL RESPONSES TO RAPE

For the first few weeks to months after the attack you might find it impossible to sleep, eating may be a problem.
You might not be able to concentrate and may suffer flashbacks of the attack.
You can feel numb, may not believe what happened to you, or may feel extreme anxiety, fear and disorientation.
These are normal reactions to trauma.

These short term symptoms will gradually become less powerful. At that stage you may feel relieved and you may want to let go of your support. However, it is important to note, that rape and assault always have long-term effects on your life, too.
Rape violates your sense of self; it is a terrifying, isolating and humiliating experience.

It may be difficult to trust people, even the closest people around you, after an attack.
It may have an impact on your self-esteem. Your sexuality can be affected. In short, all areas of your life can be turned upside down.
If you have been raped or assaulted, you deserve support.