Recently an adult relative put on lingerie and said she would punish me if I didn’t “show her what I could do”. We had sex. What do I do now?

Thanks for your question and for seeking support. It is important to know this is not your fault, and you are not alone. Sexual abuse is any unwanted sexual contact. It can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, intellectual ability, or physical ability. In most cases sexual abuse is committed by someone the person knows.

You may not know how to feel or what to do – and that is okay. Some things we encourage you to consider:

• If you are in danger, hurt, or concerned for your safety call for emergency services (911 in the United States) or go to a local Emergency Department.
• Call your healthcare provider. They can help talk things out with you, make sure you get support, and make sure you get any medical tests or treatment. When you contact your healthcare provider you can let them know you want to make an appointment as soon as possible, you do not have to tell them the details over the phone.
• Call the National Sexual Assault hotline (1-800-656-4673).
• Contact a trusted adult in your life; this can be a teacher, school nurse, coach, or relative. They may be able to help you figure out what to do next.
• Contact your local Child Protection Agency (for the United States: childwelfare.gov). They can help make sure you get support and are safe.

If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255, talk to a trusted adult right away, or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

For more information check out our health guide: Sexual Assault and Rape ​

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