Sexual Assault - Lake of the Woods District Hospital

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence (SA/DV) Program

The Lake of the Woods District Hospital Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence (SA/DV) Program provides confidential, compassionate, and trauma-informed care for individuals who have experienced sexual assault, domestic or intimate partner violence, or human trafficking. Specially trained SA/DV nurses are available to provide support and care. LWDH is committed to strengthening and growing this program to ensure survivors receive confidential, compassionate, and responsive care they need when they need it most.

Our Approach

We focus on a patient-centered, trauma-informed approach that respects your autonomy. We are here to support your choices, and our goal is to help you make the decisions that are best for your situation.

For urgent care, please attend the Emergency Department and ask to speak with an SA/DV nurse. General inquiries could also be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Services We Offer

A variety of SA/DV care is available and support is provided in a secure treatment room to protect your privacy and safety. You have a choice in what care options you wish to receive.

Medical Treatment

If you wish to receive medical care, please present to the Emergency Department (ED) as soon as possible. The ED staff will treat any injuries requiring urgent medical attention.

Some treatment options are available within 12 days of the assault or abuse. You can choose any or all of the following:

Examination, assessment, treatment, and documentation of injuries
Pregnancy testing and emergency contraception
Testing and treatment for Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections (e.g., Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, HIV, Hepatitis B, etc.)
Risk assessment and safety planning
Referral to community agencies for additional support
Follow-up care including STBBI retesting and treatment, reassessment of injuries, safety planning, and ongoing emotional support

Forensic Evidence Collection and Photography

Forensic evidence may be collected up to 12 days after an assault. You do not need to decide if you would like to involve the police right away. If you are unsure about involving the police, the evidence can be collected and securely stored at the hospital for up to 12 months.

Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK)

Collects evidence from your body and clothing worn during or immediately after the assault.
To preserve evidence, avoid showering, bathing, or changing/washing clothes.
If you have changed, bring the clothes worn during and after the incident in a paper bag (if possible)

Photography

Photographs and body diagrams may be used to document any injuries or areas of pain.
Photos can be taken immediately or up to 72 hours later to track changes as injuries evolve.

If the assault/abuse occurred more than 12 days ago

You can still receive compassionate care and support. Please visit your family doctor or present at the emergency department for a non-urgent SA/DV referral. Available options may include:

Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections
Emotional support and counselling referrals
Connections to community services
The option to report the incident to police at any time

Children (14 years and under)

The plan of care for children will be determined based on the timing of the assault and the information gathered. Children may be referred to the nearest Children’s Hospital for specialized care.

All suspected child abuse is legally required to be reported to child protective services.

Resources

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Program Pamphlets

Learn more about SADV services across Ontario.

Additional Information

For more information about your health care options, click here.

For definitions of assault, abuse and consent, click here.

Crisis Numbers (24/7)