Child Sexual Abuse

or "damaged

Tells you that "there is something wrong" with their private parts or their mouth

Draws or acts out sex acts

Thinks about suicide

What to do if you think that your child is being or has been sexually abused: ‚

Call your child's doctor or go to the ER.
Keep your child's torn or stained clothes. Bring them with you to the doctor.
The doctor will treat your child's injuries. The doctor may refer your child to a therapist.
Talk to your child. Ask your child what happened and who did it.
Be patient. Your child may not open up to you at first. Your child may be scared. When your child feels safe, they may open up to you.
Make sure your child knows that you believe what they say. Your support will help your child recover.
Tell your child that what happened was not their fault.
Tell your family members how they can support your child. Strong support can help your child deal with what happened.

What problems could happen?

Physical trauma like bruises, cuts, and wounds
Genital infection or bleeding
Low mood
Lack of interest in doing things
Low self-esteem
Suicide

What can be done to prevent this health problem?

Know the people around your child.
Visit your childs school and attend parent meetings.
Teach your child:
- To say "No" when someone tries to touch them or do things that make them uncomfortable
- To tell you about anything that makes them feel funny
- They should never get in a car or go with a stranger
- About private parts. Let them know that no one should touch them. Tell them to tell you when someone tries to touch them.
Talk with your child about their day when they get home from school.
During a sleepover, talk to the parents of the host.
Know your community. Ask the police about child sex offenders in your area.

When do I need to call the doctor?

You suspect that your child has been sexually abused
If you see changes in your child
If your child has urinary infections often
Your child has bruises and discharge from the genital area

Helpful tips

Bringing your child to a support group may help your child cope. Knowing that other children have gone through the same thing may help your child. ‚

Where can I learn more?

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry ‚
http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/child_sexual_abuse ‚
American Psychological Association ‚
http://www.apa.org/pubs/info/brochures/sex-abuse.aspx ‚

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚

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