Sexual Assault Resources

Medical care

General medical care

Medical care after experiencing sexual assault or intimate partner violence may be helpful for treating or preventing illness and injury. It is also a way to preserve evidence. Generally, you may want to get medical care as soon as possible.

If you have been sexually assaulted, medical providers can offer:

  • A physical exam that will identify any injuries.
  • Emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy.
  • Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing.
  • Medication (prophylaxis) to prevent contracting HIV and other STIs.
  • Testing to determine if you were given a sedating substance or other drug.

Friends, family or even police officers may be able to help you arrange for transport to the hospital.

Forensic exams/Sexual assault medical exams (rape kits)

Not all hospitals provide forensic exams/rape kits. If you are interested in evidence collection, as well as medical care, you must go to a hospital with trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). SANE nurses are specially trained to provide specialized care for patients who have been sexually assaulted or experienced strangulation in the context of relationship violence. Important things to know:

  • You are not required to make a police report to get a SANE exam.
  • There is no charge for a SANE exam.
  • You may bring a friend or family member with you.
  • Preserving evidence keeps your options open in case you decide to report.
  • It is recommended to be treated as soon as possible; evidence is best collected within 120 hours (five days) of the assault.

Disability accommodations

If you are experiencing the impacts of a medical condition or your experience has worsened an existing medical condition, consider seeking accommodations:

Bothell Disability Resources for Students (DRS)

  • Services for students enrolled at the Bothell campus
  • uwbdrs@uw.edu
  • 425-352-5307; TDD: 425-352-5303

Seattle Disability Resources for Students (DRS) 

  • Services for matriculated students enrolled at the Seattle campus.
  • uwdrs@uw.edu
  • 206-543-8924; 206-543-8925 (TTY)

Tacoma Disability Resources for Students (DRS)

  • Services for students enrolled at the Tacoma campus.
  • drsuwt@uw.edu
  • 253-692-4522

Disability Services Office (DSO) 

  • Services for staff, academic personnel, and the general public at all University locations, as well as for non-matriculated students in Seattle.
  • dso@uw.edu
  • 206-543-6450; 206-543-6452 (TTY)