Sexual Assault
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault is any sexual contact or behavior that occurs without a person’s clear, voluntary, and informed consent. It can include unwanted touching, coercion, pressure, manipulation, sexual harassment, rape, exploitation, or trafficking. Sexual assault may involve physical force, threats, intimidation, or taking advantage of someone’s vulnerability, impairment, or inability to consent.
If You Have Experienced Sexual Assault
It Was Not Your Fault
Sexual assault is never the survivor’s fault. Responsibility always lies with the person who chose to cause harm.
You Have Options
You may choose to:
Seek medical care
Have a forensic exam (sometimes called a SANE exam)
Report to law enforcement
Speak with a confidential advocate
Tell someone you trust
Or take time before deciding anything
Medical Care Is Available
Medical care can address injuries and provide STI prevention or emergency contraception.
A forensic exam can be completed without immediately deciding to report.
SANE Exam (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) - a specialized, trauma-informed medical forensic examination for individuals who have experienced sexual assault.
It is performed by specially trained nurses and the exam collects evidence, documents injuries, and provides preventive and compassionate care.
It is confidential, voluntary, and often, no police report is required.
You can bring a support person or advocate.
UC Health Memorial Central Hospital
You are not alone.
Confidential Support Is Available
TESSA’s Confidential Victim Advocates are available 24/7 at (719) 633-3819
If Someone You Know Has Experienced Sexual Assault
How to Support a Survivor
Listen without judgment
Believe them
Avoid asking “why” questions
Respect their choices
Offer to help connect them to support
Do not pressure them to report
Call TESSA’s 24/7 Safeline at (719) 633-3819 to speak confidentially with an advocate.
You don’t have to do this alone.
And neither do they.