If you're reading this because you've experienced sexual assault, we'd like to say something before anything else.

We're sorry this happened to you.

No one deserves to have their body, boundaries, or trust violated.

What happened to you should never have happened.

You may have arrived here looking for information about emergency contraception, pregnancy, or what to do next.

We'll talk about those things.

But first, we want you to hear something that many survivors need to hear:

This was not your fault.

There Is No "Right" Way to Feel

Some people cry.

Some people feel angry.

Some people feel numb.

Some people try to convince themselves it wasn't "that bad."

Some people don't feel anything at all.

Trauma affects everyone differently.

There is no correct timeline for processing what happened.

Whatever you're feeling right now is your own experience, and you don't have to compare it to anyone else's.

You May Be Asking Yourself Difficult Questions

Many survivors ask themselves questions such as:

"Should I have fought back?"

"Why did I freeze?"

"Maybe I misunderstood what happened."

"Will people believe me?"

"Did I somehow cause this?"

These thoughts are common after traumatic experiences.

But questioning yourself does not mean you are responsible for what happened.

Responsibility belongs to the person who chose to assault you.

If You're Worried About Pregnancy

For some survivors, one of the first fears is pregnancy.

If pregnancy is possible because of the assault, emergency contraception may help reduce the chance of pregnancy if it is taken within the recommended time frame.

Different emergency contraceptive pills have different time limits, so seeking advice as soon as possible is important.

Emergency contraception is not an abortion pill.

It works before pregnancy begins.

You Don't Have to Figure Everything Out Today

After a traumatic event, it can feel like every decision must be made immediately.

In reality, you can take one step at a time.

Today, that step might simply be:

• reading reliable information
• contacting a healthcare provider
• reaching out to someone you trust
• asking questions
• seeking emergency contraception if appropriate

You don't need to have every answer today.

You Deserve Medical Care

Even if you don't have visible injuries, medical care can still be important.

Healthcare professionals may be able to help with:

• treatment of injuries
• emergency contraception
• STI testing or prevention
• pregnancy testing later if needed
• emotional support referrals

Seeking medical care does not obligate you to report the assault.

Reporting Is Your Decision

Many survivors worry they'll be pressured to report immediately.

Reporting is a personal decision.

Some survivors choose to report.

Others don't.

Some decide much later.

You deserve access to healthcare regardless of whether you report the assault.

Healing Doesn't Follow a Schedule

Some days you may feel okay.

Other days may be unexpectedly difficult.

You might experience:

• anxiety
• sadness
• anger
• trouble sleeping
• fear
• difficulty concentrating
• emotional numbness

Healing isn't linear.

Good days and difficult days can exist at the same time.

You Are More Than What Happened to You

Sexual assault may become part of your story.

It does not define your worth.

You are still the same person who deserves kindness, opportunity, love, and respect.

You are not "broken."

You are not "damaged."

You are not "less than."

What happened to you says everything about the person who harmed you—not about your value.

Why StillSafe PH Created This Initiative

At StillSafe PH, we've spent years helping people access emergency contraception and reproductive health information.

Over time, we realized that some survivors of sexual assault faced another barrier:

The cost of emergency contraception.

No one should have to choose between protecting their health and worrying about money after experiencing sexual assault.

That's why we now offer free emergency contraception to eligible survivors, subject to availability.

It won't undo what happened.

But if it removes one burden during an incredibly difficult time, then it's worth doing.

Our Promise

If you contact us regarding this initiative, we'll strive to respond with:

• respect
• compassion
• privacy
• accurate information

We understand that reaching out may be one of the hardest parts.

We're honored if you choose to trust us.

If You're Reading This for Someone You Care About

Maybe this article isn't for you.

Maybe it's for your daughter.

Your sister.

Your partner.

Your best friend.

Someone who trusted you enough to tell you what happened.

One of the most powerful things you can say is:

"I believe you."

You don't have to solve everything.

Sometimes simply listening without judgment can make an enormous difference.

A Letter From All of Us at StillSafe PH

Dear Survivor,

We wish we lived in a world where this article wasn't necessary.

We wish no one ever searched for phrases like "pregnant after sexual assault" or "what should I do after rape."

But because people do, we wanted you to find something different.

Not judgment.

Not blame.

Not shame.

Just information.

Compassion.

And a reminder that someone cares.

If you're worried about pregnancy, we'll help you understand your options.

If you need emergency contraception and qualify for our program, we'll do our best to help.

If all you needed today was someone to remind you that your life still matters—

Then let this article be that reminder.

You are stronger than this moment, even if it doesn't feel that way today.

With compassion,

The StillSafe PH Team