Seek Medical Care
You can still get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and pregnancy. A healthcare provider can also treat injuries or complications that may not be visible.
It is not too late to seek help
Even if several days, weeks, or months have passed, you can still seek medical care, support, and legal advice.
Consider HIV Testing
If you did not receive Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) within 72 hours, testing is still important. A doctor can advise you on follow-up testing timelines.
Document What You Remember
Write down details of the incident while they are still clear. Include dates, locations, names, and any messages or communications related to it.
Preserve Remaining Evidence
Save text messages, call logs, emails, social media messages, or photographs. Do not delete anything that may be relevant.
Contact a Support Organization
Many organizations provide counselling, legal advice, and guidance even if time has passed. You do not need to decide immediately whether to report.
Consider Legal Advice
Reporting timelines vary by state. A legal aid organization can explain your options and what may still be possible.
Seek Counselling or Emotional Support
Delayed reactions are common. Speaking with a counsellor or trained support worker can help you process what happened.
Important notes
- You are not required to report immediately in order to deserve care.
- Healing and support are still available even if time has passed.
- It is normal to delay seeking help.