Your health is important!
There may be different reasons that you consider seeking medical care at different points in time. The Healing and Advocacy Collective can help explore different medical options and questions that you might have, such as: when to go? where to go? who to go with? how to get there?
The Healing & Advocacy Collective and community organizations are available to accompany or meet you at the hospital and explore transportation options. (See Resources for additional information.)
Physical Discomfort or Injury
If, at any time, you are experiencing any physical discomfort or are concerned about injury, it may be helpful to see a medical provider, including a primary care healthcare professional, urgent care clinic, or the hospital.
Sexually Transmitted Infection/Disease (STI/STD) and HIV Prophylaxis
If, at any time, you are concerned about exposure to a STD/HIV, there are a range of options to consider, including options for HIV prophylaxis. HIV prophylaxis is a medication regimen that you take after possible HIV exposure that prevents you from being infected with HIV. There are safe and effective ways to help reduce the likelihood of transmission within 24-72 hours after exposure.
Learn more about where you can finding testing.
Concerns about Pregnancy
If, at any time, you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, there are a range of options to consider. There are safe and effective ways to prevent pregnancy for up to five days (120 hours) after exposure and additional options after that.
SANE Exam
Specially trained sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) complete forensic medical exams that collect evidence that may be used in legal procedures. SANE exams can be completed whether or not you want to pursue legal options.
A SANE exam can be done up to five days (120 hours) after an assault. A SANE exam can assess and treat physical injuries, and determine risk of any STD and HIV exposure, as well as pregnancy.
A SANE exam can take several hours. If you decide to go to the hospital for an exam, some things to consider include:
- Making sure your phone is charged or bringing a charger
- Bringing a change of clothes in case the hospital keeps any of your clothing
- Bringing a snack
- Having something to fidget with
Before a SANE exam: not showering/bathing, brushing teeth, combing hair or changing clothes can help preserve evidence. If you have already done these things, it is still possible to collect evidence. For example, clothing can be placed in a paper bag and brought to the hospital.
If you need immediate medical attention, call 911 or Emerson College Police Department (ECPD) at 617-824-8888, or go to a local hospital. The Healing & Advocacy Collective and community organizations are available to go with you or to meet you at the hospital.