VAWnet News Blog

Sexual assaults may put the victim at risk for contracting HIV. There is a medication available that acts as a prophylaxis after potential exposure to the virus. This medication is commonly referred to as nPEP (Nonoccupational Postexposure Prophylaxis). While this medication is available, it is not always accessible to every victim.

Since the release of new reports on sexual violence in the military, there have been lots of questions about how to address sexual violence within such a large system. First, note that rape culture exists in every institution, and this problem is not unique to the military.

by Patty Branco, NRCDV Senior Technical Assistance and Resource Specialist

“Sexting” is the term commonly used to refer to the act of sending or receiving nude or sexually suggestive images through mobile devices or social media sites. This image sharing can be consensual, coerced, or achieved through manipulation. When teens participate in this form of digital sexual expression, it can violate existing laws established to address child pornography.

May is Older Americans Month, honoring the value that elders contribute to our communities. It also provides an opportunity to elevate the rights of elders to live free from abuse.

There is a lot to talk about when it comes to understanding child development in general. With childhood sexual development, things seem to be even trickier! While it’s not uncommon in our culture to shy away from talking about sex with our children, it’s incredibly important to do so. Increasing children’s knowledge about their bodies, sexuality, and development is one piece of the puzzle in preventing child sexual abuse.