Rape-The Cold Hard Facts

South Africa should have a day dedicated to women who were raped or had sexual harassment towards them, where the woman could be open about their experiences. The South African government should reinstate the death penalty for criminals who commit rape and any other harsh crimes. The government should also extend the jail sentencing of rapists; the government should also chemically castrate serial rapists so that the huge problem of rape can decrease. Initiatives to prevent sexual violence/rape is psychological care and support; counselling, therapy and support group initiatives have been found to be helpful following sexual assaults, especially where there may be complicating factors related to the violence itself or the process of recovery. Medico-legal services; in many countries, when sexual violence is reported the health sector has the duty to collect medical and legal evidence to corroborate the accounts of the victims or to help in identifying the perpetrator. The use of standard protocols and guidelines can significantly improve the quality of treatment and psychological support of victims, as well as the evidence that is collected. The protocols include:

1) Recording a full description of the incident, listing all the assembled evidence

2) Listing the gynaecological and contraceptive history of the victim

3) Documenting in a standard way the results of a full physical examination

4) Assessment of the risk of pregnancy

5) Testing for treating sexually transmitted diseases, including, where appropriate, testing for HIV;

6) Providing emergency contraception and, where legal, counselling on abortion;

7) Providing psychological support and referral