Rape happens when a person has sex that he or she didn't agree to. It includes intercourse in the vagina, anus or mouth. Sometimes it happens when one person forces another to have sex. Sometimes this involves violence. It can also happen when the victim can't think clearly due to drugs or alcohol.
Rape is a felony offense. This means it is one the worst crimes a person can commit. Rape can happen to men, women or children. It causes both physical and emotional harm. If you have been raped, it's important to get away as fast as you can. Then call 911 or the police or get to the nearest hospital.
National Women's Health Information Center
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Date last updated: 17 December 2008 Topic last reviewed: 06 November 2008 |