2.2. How do I prevent HIV infection after I've been raped?

Because rape is violent and there is often tearing and bleeding, you are at higher risk of HIV infection. It is vital for you to be provided with antiretroviral (ARV) treatment immediately to prevent HIV transmission.
1. You must start taking ARV medication as soon as possible. You must try to get these medicines within 72 hours (3 days) of the attack.
2. Go to a doctor as soon as you can. Ask about antiretroviral medicines that could reduce the risk of getting HIV. These medicines are called 'post-exposure prophylaxis' or PEP.
3. Ask the doctor to give you an HIV test. Make sure you receive all the necessary information and counselling before the test and once you receive the results.
See 3. How do I know my HIV status?
4. While you are waiting for the results of the HIV test, the doctor may give you a starter pack of three-day medicine to take immediately.
5. If you test HIV positive, the medicines that may reduce your risk of getting HIV will be stopped. Ask the doctor about things you can do to look after yourself and find out about care and support.
6. If you only get a starter pack, go back to the doctor to get the results of your HIV test. Also get the rest of the medicines if you are HIV negative. If you think it will be impossible for you to come back to the doctor to get the rest of the medicines, ask for all the medicines in the beginning.
7. If you test HIV negative, take the medicine for 28 days. Remember that the starter pack is only for 3 days; you must take the full course for 28 days or it will not work.
8. These medicines are strong. They may have side-effects like headaches, tiredness, skin rash, a running stomach, nausea and others. These side effects are usually not serious and will not last long. If the side effects are very unpleasant, go back to the doctor.
9. You need to have another HIV test after 6 weeks, 3 months and again 6 months after the rape. It is very important for you to find out the results of your HIV test so that you can know your HIV status. If you test HIV negative each time, it means you did not contract HIV from the rape.
Where can you get ARVs?
Call the National AIDS Helpline 0800-012-322 to find out where you can get ARV medicines. The National AIDS Helpline provides a confidential, anonymous 24-hour toll-free telephone counselling, information and referral service for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. The operator can give you a list of organisations providing support and care to HIV positive people and their families.
You can also get these medicines at a chemist but you will need a prescription and they may be expensive. Many medical aid schemes now provide ARVs, so ask about them.


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