STI Testing and PEP After Sexual Assault

If you’ve experienced sexual assault, your health and safety are top priorities. There are medical treatments available to protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), prevent HIV infection, and address potential concerns with antibiotics. This page will guide you through the options available for STI testing, antibiotics, and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) as a Boston University student.

Why Is STI Testing Important After a Sexual Assault?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be transmitted through sexual contact, and you may be at risk following a sexual assault. STI testing is an essential part of protecting your health. Common STIs that may be tested for after a sexual assault include:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Syphilis
  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
  • Hepatitis B
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

When Should I Get STI Testing?

  • As soon as possible: It’s best to get tested as soon as you can after the assault to ensure your health. Some STIs can be detected immediately, while others may require follow-up testing a few weeks or months later.
  • Follow-Up Testing: If you test negative right away, your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up testing in 3 to 6 months to ensure you are still STI-free.

Where Can I Get STI Testing?

As a Boston University student, you have access to confidential STI testing through Boston University Health Services (BU Health Services), as well as local hospitals and clinics in Boston.

  • Boston University Health Services
     Phone: (617) 353-3575
     Address: 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
     BU Health Services provides confidential STI testing and follow-up care for students who’ve experienced sexual assault.
  • Planned Parenthood Boston Health Center
     Phone: (800) 230-PLAN (7526)
     Address: 1055 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215
     Planned Parenthood offers STI testing and confidential sexual health services.
  • Local Hospitals
     You can also go to a nearby hospital, such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Beth Israel or Boston Medical Center, for STI testing and sexual assault-related care.

What Are Antibiotics and Why Might I Need Them?

After a sexual assault, your healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics to help prevent or treat certain STIs. Specifically, antibiotics are often used to treat or prevent infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis.

When Are Antibiotics Needed?

  • Prophylactic Antibiotics: If you’re concerned about potential exposure to Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, or Syphilis, antibiotics may be prescribed right away, even before testing results come back.
  • Treatment for STIs: If you test positive for any STI, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat and clear the infection.

Important note: Always take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking them even if you feel better, and finish the full course of the medication to ensure the infection is fully treated.

What Is PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) and Why Is It Important?

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication used to prevent HIV infection after possible exposure. If you’ve experienced a sexual assault, PEP may be an important option to reduce your risk of contracting HIV.

How Does PEP Work?

PEP is a combination of HIV medications that work together to stop the virus from entering and replicating in your body. You need to start PEP within 72 hours (3 days) after potential HIV exposure for it to be most effective.

How Effective Is PEP?

When taken correctly, PEP is about 80% effective in preventing HIV infection.

How Long Do I Take PEP?

PEP is taken for 28 days. Your healthcare provider will give you the prescription and instructions for taking the medication.

 

How to Access STI Testing, Antibiotics, and PEP

As a Boston University student, you have easy access to confidential STI testing, antibiotics, and PEP through BU Health Services and nearby Boston clinics and hospitals.

Boston University Health Services

  • Phone: (617) 353-3575
  • 24/7 Health Services: BU Health Services provides STI testing, antibiotics, and PEP for students who’ve experienced sexual assault.

Local Hospitals in Boston

  • Massachusetts General Hospital
      • Address: 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114
      • Phone: (617) 726-2000
  • Boston Medical Center
      • Address: 1 Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA 02118
      • Phone: (617) 638-8000
  • Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

You should get PEP within 72 hours of exposure to HIV, so it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible.

*Currently, some EDs are turning away students who want STI testing, but who don’t think they were sexually assaulted. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions about this.

 

What Are the Side Effects of STI Testing, Antibiotics, and PEP?

  • STI Testing
  • Minimal Side Effects: STI testing is typically quick and simple. It may involve a blood test, urine sample, or swabs, which may cause mild discomfort but no significant side effects.
  • Antibiotics
  • Possible Side Effects: Common side effects of antibiotics may include:
    • Nausea
    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
  • Important Note: Be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, and finish the full course of antibiotics even if you start feeling better.

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

  • Common Side Effects: PEP can cause mild side effects such as:
    • Nausea
    • Fatigue
    • Diarrhea
    • Headaches
  • Serious Side Effects: In rare cases, PEP can cause severe side effects. If you experience any difficulty breathing, a rash, or severe vomiting, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What Should I Do if I Need Help or Have More Questions?

There are confidential resources available to help you through the process of STI testing and PEP after a sexual assault. These services can provide you with medical, emotional, and legal support.

Boston University Survivor Advocacy, Response and Prevention Center (SARP)

  • Phone: (617) 353-7277
  • 24/7 Support: BU offers confidential support, including assistance with STI testing, PEP, and emotional support for survivors of sexual assault.

Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC)

  • Phone: (617) 492-7273 or 1-800-841-8371
  • 24-hour Hotline: BARCC provides confidential support, resources, and guidance on next steps following sexual assault.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

  • Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
  • 24/7 Hotline: RAINN offers confidential, national support for survivors, including guidance on accessing STI testing and PEP.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Remember, you have options and support available at Boston University and in the greater Boston area to protect your health and receive the care you need after a sexual assault. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help or more information.