Emergency Care for Sexual Assault

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Rape, sexual assault, incest and sexual abuse are violent crimes. They use sex as a weapon to dominate, humiliate or harm another person. These acts can happen to anyone. Survivors often face intense emotions like fear, shock and shame. These feelings can make it hard to get through your everyday routines.

How We Can Help You

Our goal is to help you navigate this process with as much comfort and understanding as possible. You have the right to make choices about your care, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Our Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) team offers care at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. They see people 13 and older who have experienced sexual assault.

Our SANE nurses undergo training that covers the medical, legal and psychological aspects of sexual assault care. They also have training in collecting evidence and providing trauma-informed, patient-centered care.

What to Expect

Getting Care After Sexual Assault

Clinicians can treat injuries, prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and give you emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy.

getting care

What to Expect at the Emergency Department

You can go alone, with someone you trust or with the police. When you check in, tell the nurse you need care after a sexual assault.

what to expect

Police Involvement

All Illinois hospitals are mandated reporters. We do not release any information that could identify you without your consent.

police involvement

Costs and Insurance

There is no cost for medical forensic services you receive in our Emergency Department.

costs and insurance

Locations & Contact Information

Related Resources

Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office:
Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault:
(phone and chat messaging options)
Office of the Illinois Attorney General:

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