Rape is a type of sexual assault. In most areas, rape is a legal term for unwanted sexual intercourse. Anyone can be raped. It is estimated that 1.3 rapes occur every minute in the United States. Isolation and vulnerability increase your chance of being raped.

Here are some tips to help you avoid rape.
* Avoid going into dark and deserted places alone.
* Choose your companions wisely.
* Keep your home and car locked and secured.
* Be alert to strangers around you.
* Consider taking a self-defense course.
* Use a loud whistle to attract attention.
* Consider carrying a self-defense spray such as pepper spray, if it is legal in your area.

If you are raped you should:
* Contact the police.
* Go to an emergency room, or contact a rape crisis center.
* Do not shower or change clothes before undergoing a physical exam and evidence collection at an emergency room.
* If you go through an examination at an emergency room, you may have a nurse or rape crisis counselor present for support during the examination. The purpose of the exam is primarily to obtain the facts to be use in criminal charges against the rapist.
* Medical treatment is available for prevention of most venereal diseases and for prevention of pregnancy.
* The doctor at the emergency room can diagnose and treat and physical injuries.
* Get counseling from a professional who specializes in helping victims recover from rape.
* Remember that the rape was in no way your fault.

If you are raped, it is normal to have feelings of confusion, shame, anger and fear. For help in dealing with these emotions, call the Rape Abuse Hotline at (800) 656-4673.

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