What Is Sexual Assault?

According to RAINN, sexual assault is sexual contact or behavior that occurs without explicit consent of the victim.

What is Consent?

According to RAINN, “Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent should be clearly and freely communicated. A verbal and affirmative expression of consent can help both you and your partner to understand and respect each other’s boundaries. Consent cannot be given by individuals who are underage, intoxicated or incapacitated by drugs or alcohol, or asleep or unconscious. If someone agrees to an activity under pressure of intimidation or threat, that isn’t considered consent because it was not given freely. Unequal power dynamics, such as engaging in sexual activity with an employee or student, also mean that consent cannot be freely given. When you’re engaging in sexual activity, consent is about communication. And it should happen every time for every type of activity.”

What Do I Do If I’ve Been Assaulted?

Though you may feel devastated, incredibly uncomfortable, or maybe a bit numb, a SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) appointment is important for many reasons as soon as possible following an assault. You have up to 120 hours (5 days) after an assault to have a forensic exam for evidence collection. SANE nurses are expertly trained and are prepared to help you take this step toward healing and recovery.

Where Can I Go In Helena For An Exam Following As Assault?  

Options Clinic now offers SANE exams in a fully confidential, comfortable, and safe space. The Emergency Department at St. Peter’s Health also has a team of SANE nurses on-call and ready to help. 

Do I Have to Report the Assault?

No. You don’t have to make this decision right now. If you are 18 or older, you can complete a forensic medical exam, and the evidence will be held in a storage facility for 75 years in case you decide to report later.

How Much Will An Exam Cost?

Your SANE exam at Options will be completely free.

Remember, you are not alone, and this is not your fault. There is hope and recovery following sexual assault. Pursuing a SANE exam is an important step in your process of healing.