© 2008 Pandora’s Aquarium by Jackie and Kristy Being a victim of
sexual violence leaves you vulnerable on many levels. In
addition to the emotional ramifications a person faces after
experiencing trauma, there are possible physical consequences
that stem from unwanted sexual contact. Often in the aftermath
of sexual abuse or rape, many survivors are left with an
incredibly frightening question… Did I contract a sexually
transmitted infection? What is an STI? A sexually transmitted
infection is defined as: an infection that can be transferred
from one person to another through sexual contact. Sexually
transmitted infections are most often spread by oral, vaginal or
anal contact; however they can also be contracted after skin to
skin contact. There are a wide variety of sexually transmitted
infections that can occur during the course of unprotected
sexual contact. While it is not possible to go through an entire
list, we have compiled a few helpful resources for anyone
dealing with STIs. American Social Health