Sexual abuse in children - what to know


Definition

This article tells you what to do if you suspect a child has been sexually abused.

Alternative Names

Sexual abuse - children

Information

One in four girls and one in ten boys are sexually abused before they turn 18.

Sexual abuse of children is any activity that the abuser does to get sexually aroused, including:

Sexual abuse can also happen without physical contact, such as:

Signs of Sexual Abuse in Children

Suspect sexual abuse when children:

Sexually abused children might have:

Sexually abused children may also:

When to Contact Your Doctor

If you think a child has been sexually abused, get the child examined by a health care provider.

During the exam, the provider will:

Treatment

Get the child any needed medical care. Also get mental health counseling for the child. Active support groups that can help include:

Know that providers, teachers, and child care workers are required by law to report sexual abuse. If abuse is suspected, child protection agencies and the police will investigate. The child must be protected from abuse. The child may be placed with a non-abusing parent, another relative, or in a foster home.

References

Carrasco MM, Wolford JE, Eichman AL. Child abuse and neglect. In: Zitelli BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis' Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 6.

Marcdante KJ, Kliegman RM. Child abuse and neglect. In: Marcdante KJ, Kliegman RM, eds. Nelson Essentials of Pediatrics. 20th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 22.

US Department of Health and Human Services website. Child Welfare Information Gateway. How to report child abuse and neglect. www.childwelfare.gov/how-report-child-abuse-and-neglect/. Accessed February 13, 2024.


Review Date: 10/22/2022
Reviewed By: Charles I. Schwartz, MD, FAAP, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, General Pediatrician at PennCare for Kids, Phoenixville, PA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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