These symptoms do not necessarily indicate that your child has been sexually molested or abused.  If symptoms are present, though, it should alert you to investigate and take action.

Possible Physical Symptoms of Child Sexual Abuse:

• Attempts at self-harm or suicide

• Constantly scratching or rubbing genitals

• Walking and sitting appear to be painful

• Blood stains

• Repeat urinary tract infections

• Sores in mouth or on genitals (STDs)

• Swelling or bleeding from vagina or anus

• Multiple trips to bathroom

• Painful urination

Danger Signals

• Compulsive or constant masturbation (all day long)

• Increased complaints of headaches

• Return to baby-like or younger behaviors

• Bedwetting

• Child has advanced sexual knowledge for his or her age

• Nightmares or trouble sleeping at night

• Medical problems such as chronic itching, pain in the genitals or venereal diseases

• Excessive cleanliness or lack of hygiene

• Drawings of sexual images or genitals

• Nervousness or withdrawal from usual hugging

• New fear of going to the doctor

• Compulsive lying

• Extreme desire to please everyone

• Suddenly has more money or gifts than usual (source of which is unknown to you)

• Suddenly takes much longer than usual to get home from school

• Behavior suddenly changes towards a certain person

• Strange comments about a certain person

• Personality suddenly changes and he or she clings to you

• Lack of appetite or sudden increased appetite

• Wants to be isolated and seems withdrawn

• Lack of concentration

• Depression, withdrawal, suicide attempts, etc.

It is possible that a child will show no outward signs, and will be able to hide what is happening from everyone.