Physical Examination in Child Sexual Abuse

Abstract

SUMMARYBackground: The worldwide prevalence of child sexual abuse is 12-13% (18% of girls, and just under 8% of boys). Many doctors are nevertheless unsure of the proper procedures to follow and the scientific basis of the physical findings that are associated with sexual abuse. This article is focused on the physical findings of abuse, rather than its emotional and psychiatric consequences.

Child sexual abuse as an etiological factor of overweight and eating disorders — considerations for primary health care providers

“…• anal or vaginal soreness or excessive itching; • sexually-transmitted disease, an unusual discharge; • blood in urine or faeces; • pregnancy [2,5].…”

“…Reporting is usually mandatory and a failure to report CSA is considered a crime [2,4,5]. However, the study by Menoch et al revealed insufficient medical knowledge of child abuse in residents' and practicing physicians' highlighting the need for increased education in child maltreatment [7].…”

“…The great www. journals.viamedica.pl/ginekologia_polska majority (> 90%) of sexually abused children do not have any abnormal physical findings [2,5]. Thus, there has been increased interest in silent warning signs of child's maltreatment, such as changes in child's behavior.…”

“…At the same time, these are primary health providers (such as general practitioners, pediatricians and dentists) who are in constant contact with patients and have a unique opportunity to offer essential support to the child and family [2].…”

“…Noncontact activities include inappropriate observation of child (e.g. during bath or in a rest room), exhibitionism, pornography and involvement of child in prostitution [1][2][3].…”