To help this community prevent sexual assault, we need to empower and protect those who are vulnerable. Prevention of sexual assault mostly takes the form of education. Both men and women need to understand what it means to consent to a sexual act and learn how to clarify intentions when communication may be impaired.
Halloween is a time when the use of alcohol and drugs and/or the effect of peer pressure can render someone vulnerable. Advice for Halloween weekend: Have increased awareness of sexual dynamics and use clear communication. Respect boundaries, and pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues so that you are not perceived as a perpetrator by a sexual partner. If friends are drunk, help them make safe choices. If you witness a situation unfolding which doesn’t seem right to you, don’t just gawk or giggle. Speak up and make sure that those involved are making informed choices! Make choices which keep yourself safe and strong; avoid situations which can make you vulnerable.
Sometimes a person is sure rape occurred, but for others, loss of consciousness or lack of clear communication can make it harder to know if what happened was sexual assault. The providers at the O’Bleness Emergency Department are trained to know how to report assault, when a forensic exam can be performed, and how to assess and treat someone who has been a victim of sexual assault. Patients who come to Campus Care will be assessed and educated about the options for evaluation and treatment. Counseling services are available from Campus Care and other area counseling services.
Services for those who report sexual assault are also available through the legal system, Ohio University agencies and the community at large. OU Police Department and City and County law enforcement officers are fully trained to manage allegations and work with local health care agencies to ensure that chain of evidence is maintained for the collection of forensic evidence. OU’s Women’s Center and the advocate program provide information and emotional support as patients navigate the confusing maze of medical and legal agencies. Other community partners such as My Sisters Place, Planned Parenthood, The Child Advocacy Center, local urgent care and primary care offices, the court system, religious and spiritual organizations, many Ohio University organizations, and others provide education regarding prevention, assessment and assistance with healing after sexual assault.
The Athens and Ohio University communities provide a network of support for those who are vulnerable to sexual assault, those who report sexual assault and those who are healing after past assault. This network is overlapping and interrelated and is intended to help those in need of our services. If you experience sexual assault, reach out to one of us, we will help guide you safely through the process of assessment and healing.
Jane Broecker is an assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at OUHCOM. She also serves as the medical director of women’s health at O’Bleness Health System and is a gynecologic consultant at Campus Care.
