I was raped; what are the chances that I have HIV and what should I do?

Post exposure treatment is recommended as soon as possible.

Any assault where the assailant's blood or semen has access to the person's bloodstream is risky, as is the case in rape.  If the assault is violent and the person bleeds, this may be more likely.

Anal penetration is the highest risk; vaginal penetration is somewhat less risky; semen in the mouth presents the smallest risk.  Ejaculation in any of these cases increases the risk significantly.

The HIV status of the rapist should be determined (if this is possible).

For medical and legal purposes, it is highly recommended that a person who has been raped be tested immediately.  This can establish that the person was not infected at the time of the assault.  If he/she is HIV negative and later test HIV positive, there may be a basis for legal action beyond the assault charge.

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