What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence includes rape (sexual assault, forced sex, pressured sex), unwanted sexual contact, attempted rape, child sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and stalking.
What is an STD?
STD stands for "Sexually Transmitted Disease"... such as Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Herpes, that can be transmitted through intimate/close contact of blood or mucous membranes.
What is a "SANE" nurse?
A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. This is a Registered Nurse who has undergone intensive training to care for survivors of sexual assault.
What happens during a rape exam?
The survivor meets with a SANE nurse for a complete medical exam, collection of forensic evidence, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, and pregnancy prevention.
How reliable are the HIV tests?
HIV tests are very reliable. If you have a test done at least 4 weeks after you think you were exposed to HIV, the test result will be an accurate one.
How easy is it to get tested?
It is very easy to get tested. The Vermont Department of Health has testing sites all over the state. You can get tested for free and no one will ask your name. To find a place to go you can call the Department of Health at 1-800-882-2437.
What do you have to do for the test?
The test is easy. The person doing the test will put a salty tasting swab in your mouth for 2 minutes. It takes two weeks for the test to come back from the laboratory. So you will have to go back and get your test results in two weeks.
When is help available?
The best place to call is the Vermont Department of Health hotline: 1-800-882-2437.
How fast can HIV spread through the body?
In someone who is newly infected it takes about 3 days to a week for the virus to spread throughout the body.
How long until it turns into AIDS?
It takes about 10 -15 years from the time a person is infected to the time s/he is sick enough to be called having AIDS. These days, most people who go on medications never get that sick. Even though it takes a long time to get sick, the test will be positive 4 weeks after you have been exposed. If people get to see an AIDS doctor they may never get sick from HIV.
Nearest test site?
Call the Vermont Department of Health hotline at 1-800-882-2437.
What's the best way to get safe after a sexual assault?
Go to a safe place (such as a friend's house) and call the Sexual Violence Hotline toll-free at 1-800-489-7273. You will be connected to an advocate in your area who can speak with you and help you make a safety plan. You do not have to identify yourself in any way. This is a free, 24/7 service.
