They gather samples of the rapist's semen, saliva and blood, then seal each swab in a small cardboard box. They slip each box into an envelope that corresponds with a different part of the rape survivor's body. All the evidence is placed back in the rape kit, along with other items that may contain incriminating DNA, such as stray hairs found on the victim's body and the clothes that she wore during the attack. In addition to this proof, doctors may document injuries with diagrams and photographs and tuck these in the rape victim's medical file. Because one in six women is raped, experts say that every woman should know how to respond to this crisis and where to turn for counseling and help.
Experts estimate that only one in three rapes is ever reported to police.
Some victims shroud themselves in silence for fear that their attackers will strike a second time. Others believe that ignoring the trauma will make it just go away. If you go to the hospital, you get a health exam, treatment and counseling. If you go to the police, you can put the rapist in jail so he doesn't do this to other people. Information on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and is in no way intended to be a substitute for medical consultation.