Signs and Symptoms

Victims of sexual abuse can have the following signs and symptoms:

Physical

Reddening /itching of genital or anus
Pain or injury of genital/anus
Pain in passing urine
Vaginal/penile discharge
Abdominal pains
Venereal diseases
Pregnancy

Behavioural

Clinging behaviour
Withdrawal/thumb-sucking
Bed-wetting inappropriate for age
Truancy
Poor school performance
Running away
Alcohol and drug abuse
Suicide attempts
Excessive masturbation
Seductive behaviour
Sexual knowledge and activities inappropriate for age

Psychological

Depression manifesting in somatic complains such as:

Headache
Stomachache
Chest pain
Fatigue
Insomnia
Fainting spells
Tearfulness
Hysteria
Irrational fears
Appetite loss
Lack of concentration
Low self-esteem