Sexual abuse may present with:
- Inappropriate emotional behaviour (withdrawal, separation anxiety, depression, poor school work, avoiding school)
- Inappropriate sexual behaviour
- Vaginal discharge
- Injuries to the vulva, anus or penis (tears, bruises, tenderness, redness, scars)
Often there are no obvious clinical signs. A family member may report the abuse.
Special investigations may be indicated such as a full blood count and clotting profile if there is extensive bruising, skeletal survey for suspected repeated injury or brain scan if cerebral injury is suspected.