Seeing a doctor
We realise seeing a doctor can be stressful but your health is
important to us so we’ll do all we can to make it as painless as
possible.
You’ll be asked to give your consent to a medical
examination.
All of the doctors used by Essex Police are specially trained
and will do their best to make the process go as smoothly as
possible, but we understand this is entirely your decision.
Wherever possible you’ll also be asked if you would prefer to see a
male or female doctor.
Each of our sympathy suites has a medical examination room much
like the one you’d see at your local doctors.
The doctor will explain what will happen, find out a little
about your medical history and ask you to sign a consent form.
First reactions
It’s natural that your first reaction may be to wash and change
your clothes but try not to do this before samples are taken.
Women tell us
and have told us over the last 25 years that they wish they'd
spoken to someone sooner.
Sheila Coates, South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis
Centre
Try to avoid brushing your teeth, going to the toilet and smoking
too but don’t worry if you’ve already done some of these things as
its likely there may still be evidence to collect.
The doctor will take samples internally and externally and send
them to a laboratory for testing.
Your officer will be with you but you can ask a close friend or
relative to come for extra support should you wish. DNA evidence
can come back from the laboratory within 24 hours.
The doctor will also take notes of any injuries you have and treat
them if necessary.
After the examination
After the examination you will be able to take a hot bath or
shower. Each of the sympathy suites has a bathroom with toiletries
and fresh clothes.
You will be asked if you are happy for us to take your clothing
to be examined in a laboratory. This may produce information to
help officers with their investigations.
Your health
After a sexual assault you may be at risk of pregnancy so the
doctor will talk to you about that. If necessary you will be
offered immediate treatment but you can be referred to your local
surgery or clinic if you feel more comfortable.
It’s also important to check you’ve not been passed a sexually
transmitted infection so we can arrange a private appointment at a
GU clinic. We understand it can be unpleasant and embarrassing
but we’ll do everything we can to make it as convenient as possible
and make sure you receive the best possible care.
If possible you should have the first check within 1 or 2 days
of the attack, a second about 10 days later and possibly a third
some time after that.
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