Sexual violence against women and girls is a problem of epidemic proportions in South Africa, including a virtually unprecedented epidemic of child rape. Because South Africa is also in the grips of an explosive HIV/AIDS epidemic, sexual violence is a potential death sentence. The most vulnerable members of society are thus doubly victimized-first suffering the trauma of sexual violence and then its potentially fatal long-term consequences. Prompt medical attention can reduce the likelihood of HIV infection for rape survivors. The South African government has adopted a policy to provide this service, but its implementation has been rocky.