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Step 1
Evidence of Recent Sexual Intercourse:
The proof of recent sexual intercourse will be obtained by a collection of seminal fluids, sperm, vaginal secretions, and secretions from any other bodily areas involved in the rape, and samples of pubic hair. The absence of sperm does not mean that intercourse did not occur—many rapists are sexually dysfunctional, at least during the rape, and do not ejaculate during the assault. -
Step 2
Evidence of Force:
It is important that evidence be obtained to establish proof that the sexual intercourse was forced or against your will. The following steps may be taken: Photographs may be taken of any bruises, abrasions, or injuries. Because bruises often do not appear for twenty-four to forty-eight hours, you may wish to request that the police take a second set of pictures at a later date when they become visible. (These pictures are useless as evidence if you take them yourself.) -
Step 3
Torn or soiled clothing worn during the rape will be held by the police for evidence. If you want it back, you will need to ask for it. Lack of physical signs of force does not mean that force was not used. Date rapists often use minimal physical force but will use extreme emotional and mental intimidation, which can have the same paralyzing effect on the victim as actual violence.
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Step 4
Blood samples may be taken to ascertain whether drugs and/or alcohol are in your system. This is likely if you indicate that you’ve used drugs or if you believe you have been drugged by the assailant. This evidence can show that you were not in control of your faculties at the time of the rape.
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Step 5
Exam Questions:
The doctors and/or medical personnel may require a urine sample for pregnancy testing and may ask the following questions prior to the evidentiary exam: -
Step 6
What is your medical history? What is your marital status? What was the date of your last period? Is your menstrual cycle regular? Are you currently using birth control? Have you ever been pregnant? If so, did you have a live birth, miscarriage, or abortion?
What was the date of your last sexual intercourse prior to the assault? What is your recent sexual history? Was the attacker using a condom? You may find some of these questions personal and private, but understand that procedures and testing depend upon your answers. -
Step 7
Incriminating Evidence:
This physical evidence is needed to build a case against the rapist. It may start to disintegrate with the passage of time. Some of the physical evidence also may disintegrate because of the weather. If you were raped outside, there may be physical signs of the attack that will be destroyed if it rains. This is another reason to report the assault as soon as possible. A collection of the following may be taken to help build the State’s case against the assailant: seminal fluids to determine the rapist’s blood type; foreign matter still on your body such as leaves, fibers, hairs, etc., that will be used to identify your attacker. After the evidentiary exam, you may wish to request copies of all medical reports. The victim assistance program in your area may be able to reimburse you for the expenses of your exams. You may request help in filling out the necessary forms to qualify for financial assistance. You have the right to strict medical confidentiality. -
Step 8
Pregnancy Testing:
A urine specimen will be taken to determine if you were pregnant before the rape. You should be tested again to determine if you have become pregnant as a result of the rape. Some states will pay for this follow-up exam as part of the evidentiary exam if you have reported the rape within thirty-six hours of the assault. If you do become pregnant, continue to seek advice from the rape crisis center and other qualified professionals who will continue to support you after you make a decision about your pregnancy. Your rape crisis counselor can do much to help you get into support groups whatever your decision may be.
