by Krystle Hernandez

Created on: February 28, 2007   Last Updated: May 02, 2007

Although rape can sometimes be inescapable, there are certain things women can do which will make them less of a target to rapists than other potential victims.

1. Be aware of your surroundings try to avoid isolated, or unlit areas. It's easier for a rapist to act and escape without consequences if there are no witness in the area, or if there is no possibility of being heard. Areas that are not particularly well lit also serve as a form of cover, so be weary.

2. Be prepared in case of an attack, it is often beneficial to have either mase (to ward off the attacker) or a whistle (to draw attention to your situation). Alternatively, you can enroll in some self-defense instruction courses. Knowledge is the key in self defense, and the more instruction you receive, the more capable you will be of fighting off an attacker.

3. Know who you're talking to the adage "beware of strangers" applies just as much to adult women as it does to unsuspecting children. Many times images of strange, twisted, or violent men attacking vulnerable women are what come to mind when people think of rape. However, this fails to take into account the most common form of rape: date rape. In this situation, the victim usually knows her attacker and typically, he is not the distinguished picture of a rapist.

Again, I must emphasize that rape is sometimes unavoidable, no matter what precautions we may take. The important thing is to remember that you were not targeted because of who you are, but rather, the rapist saw something in you that he wanted to obtain or possess. Take the necessary precautions.

1. REMEMER NOT TO SHOWER! Whatever evidence is on your body can be tested forensically and used to catch your attacker. So, although it may be extremely tempting to shower and rid yourself of the disgusting aftermath of rape, please, remember to do so after all the necessary tests have been administered.

2. Go to the hospital the doctors there have rape kits available which contain emergency contraceptives, and the necessary STD testing required to be sure that you have not acquired any unwanted diseases. Hospital staff will also notify the police, who will take the necessary measures to criminally investigate and prosecute your attacker, if caught. Do not be afraid to prosecute. Whoever your attacker was, or whatever circumstances he is dealing with, he needs to get the help he needs in order to continue being a part of society. If you do not go to the police, you risk having this person commit the same crime to another unsuspecting victim.

3. Surround yourself with friends and loved ones. Do not be ashamed of what happened to you. If you have experienced rape, you have undergone a great deal of physical, emotional, and psychological stress and need an adequate support system around you to help you cope. Although it may be tempting to hide and curl up into yourself, remember that your physical and mental health are at risk and you have a responsibility to yourself to take care of yourself.

4. Take care of yourself emotionally and psychologically. Write in a journal or talk to a counselor about what you experienced. Be open, honest, and realistic about the trauma you underwent. It is perfectly normal to be feeling a roller coaster of emotions and talking to someone will most certainly help, if not for their input, at least for someone to vent your emotions to.

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