Here are some tips for identifying a child who has been sexually assaulted.

As a parent or guardian, you may notice physical signs that something is wrong, especially around your child’s genital area. These may include unexplained bruising, scratches, redness, or bleeding. Your child may also feel pain when urinating or having a bowel movement, or there may be blood present in their urine or stool.

Victims of abuse don’t always contract STIs, but the presence of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in your child is a serious indicator of abuse. You may also observe your child having difficulty walking or sitting, which could indicate physical trauma. Changes in hygiene habits, such as suddenly becoming too meticulous in bathing or refusing to bathe altogether, can also signal trauma, often due to feelings of shame or discomfort.

If your child has adjusted well, you may notice changes in his behavior. They may become withdrawn, anxious or fearful, especially in situations that might remind them of the abuse. Sometimes children may regress, displaying behaviors like bedwetting or thumb sucking that they had previously outgrown.

Sexualized behaviors – such as using age-inappropriate sexual language or participating in sexualized games – are another warning sign. Your child may express a sudden fear of certain people or places, potentially pointing to someone they associate with abuse. In addition, nightmares, difficulty sleeping and a fear of being alone could appear, as well as a drop in their academic performance or concentration at school.

Emotionally, your child may struggle with feelings of guilt or low self-esteem, often blaming themselves for what happened. This can lead to feelings of shame or worthlessness. In some cases, children may develop eating disorders as a coping mechanism, or even engage in self-harming behaviors like cutting or burning themselves, as a way to deal with emotional pain.

Although not all children are able to talk openly about their encounters, some children who have experienced sexual abuse may attempt to communicate their trauma verbally or through indirect means such as drawings or games. They may use language that is not typical of their age or make inappropriate sexual comments. Even if your child doesn’t speak directly about the abuse, signs of confusion or discomfort may still be present in their words and actions.

If your child confides in you, or if you notice any of these signs, it is important to listen attentively, without judgment or pressure. Let them express their feelings when they are ready and avoid forcing them to talk.

Above all, seek professional help immediately. Contact a child welfare agency, therapist or health care professional who can provide appropriate support for your child and family. These professionals can help ensure that your child receives the necessary care, therapy and protection, and help you navigate the legal and emotional complexities of such a sensitive issue.

It is essential that you act quickly to ensure the safety and well-being of your child. If you suspect abuse, contact the appropriate authorities to protect your child and get the help they need.