Sexual abuse or assault (rape) is any sexual act done against someone's will. It can include incest (sex with a close family member), or oral, vaginal (rape), or anal (sodomy) sexual acts.

Sexual abuse, such as any unwanted sexual touching or being forced look at or watch sexual pictures or acts, is not okay in any relationship. If you were sexually abused or assaulted or were injured, call a doctor and the police immediately.

It may be hard for you to ask for help or talk about the abuse. There are many reasons you may feel this way. Abusers often use psychological, emotional, and physical abuse along with apologies, promises, and affection to control their victims. You may feel confused and hold on to the hope that your abuser will change. Your abuser may ask for forgiveness, make promises to stop, act loving, or buy you gifts. Along with painful times, there may be loving moments and happy memories. Your abuser may be a good provider or parent.

If you have been forced to have sex against your will, don't keep the secret. Tell someone who can make a difference—a trusted family member, teacher, counselor, or doctor. You do not deserve to be abused.

If you are an assault victim:

• Call the police immediately.
• Remember the assault (rape) was not your fault.
• Find a safe environment—anywhere away from the attacker.
• Preserve evidence of the attack—do not change clothes, eat, drink, smoke, bathe, brush teeth, or clean up in any way. Write down all the details about the attack and the attacker.
• Get medical attention. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy. To preserve evidence, the doctor may do a special exam (called a forensic medical exam). If you think you may have been drugged, ask that a urine sample be taken.
• Call the local or national rape crisis hotline for support, information, and advice. A counselor can help you through the process.

Once abuse starts, it usually gets worse if steps are not taken to stop it. If you are in an abusive relationship, ask for help. This may be hard, but know you are not alone. The National Sexual Assault Hotline can help you find resources in your area. Call toll-free: 1-800-656-4673.