INTRODUCTION:
Sexual violence remains a significant public health challenge with major implications for HIV transmission. Timely access to post-assault care, particularly HIV post-exposure prophylaxis, is critical in preventing HIV transmission. This study reviewed the demographic characteristics, assault patterns, timing of presentation, and uptake of PEP among survivors presenting at the Ogun State Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Nigeria.

METHODS:
A cross-sectional review of case notes from survivors who presented at the Ogun State Sexual Assault Referral Centre between October 2021 and February 2025 was conducted. Data on demographics, assault characteristics, time to presentation, and PEP initiation were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS:
Of 132 survivors of Gender-based violence (GBV) reviewed, 98.5% were female, and 64.4% were children and adolescents (<19 years). Cases of rape and defilement accounted for 88 (66.6%) of gender-based violence. Most incidents occurred in home settings (60.6%) and were perpetrated by known individuals (88.6%). Among sexual assault survivors, only 28.4% presented within 72 hours, leaving over two-thirds ineligible for PEP Younger age, underage marital status, and assault by known perpetrators were significantly associated with delayed presentation (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:
Sexual assault in Ogun State disproportionately affects female children and adolescents, commonly occurs in familiar environments, and often involves known perpetrators. Delayed presentation remains a major barrier to effective HIV prevention. Strengthening community awareness, early reporting mechanisms, integrating HIV prevention into post-assault care, and implementing child-focused safeguarding and community education strategies are urgently needed to reduce HIV transmission risk among sexual assault survivors.