Child sexual abuse is a sad reality. Millions of children are the victims of sexual abuse. Most abuse victims are between the ages of 8 and 12, although much younger children--including babies and toddlers--are abused as well, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. In most cases, a child's abuser is someone they know and are familiar with. More than 80 percent of child sex abuse victims are abused by someone they know. Babies, in particular, are vulnerable because of their size and their inability to tell anyone of the abuse. Physical signs of sexual abuse are rare, but you may notice some changes, particularly in the diaper area.
Abrasions
A baby who is being sexually abused may have visible abrasions in and around the genitals and anus. The area may seem bruised or have cuts and scrapes, and there may be bleeding or scarring in the diaper area, according to New York University's Langone Medical Center.
Discharge
You may notice discharge from the genitals or the anus in a baby who is being abused sexually, according to Stop It Now! The area may also appear red and swollen.
Infections
Babies who are being sexually abused may develop frequent urinary infections as a result of the physical trauma the abuse is causing, according to Langone Medical Center. Sexually transmitted infections are also possible in babies and children who are being abused.
Pain
Babies cannot communicate verbally with their parents and caregivers, but they may seem uncomfortable or irritable because of pain from sexual abuse. In particular, babies may experience pain while urinating or having a bowel movement, according to Langone Medical Center. They also may seem uncomfortable when having their diapers changed.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics HealthyChildren.org: Sexual Abuse
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Child Sexual Abuse
- New York University Langone Medical Center: Child Sexual Abuse: Know the Warning Signs
- ChildWelfare.gov: Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Symptoms
- Stop It Now! Warning Signs in Children and Adolescents of Possible Child Sexual Abuse
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