We all know just how deeply the problem and crime of rape runs in South african. We have been called “the rape capital” of the world. And if you put a group of women together to talk about the sexual experiences, chances are there will be a rape story or two to tell. Well, this is the case in my life. A friend was raped by her colleague, another by a stranger. My cousin lost her virginity to a rapist, which also happened to a friend’s daughter.Personal experiences and the stats got me thinking — why is that when we talk about rape, we express everything — shock, horror, fear, disappointment — but never talk about what survivors need to do in the 72 hours following their ordeal? For me, this is the most important information women need to know and internalise. Without taking these steps, there’s the risk of being infected with STIs, including HIV, and pregnancy. It’s a risk we have to limit. Watch this video to find out everything you need to do after being raped. This video by the Soul City Institute for Justice says it all.