Child sexual abuse is a disturbing reality that affects millions of children worldwide, and unfortunately, India is no exception. According to a National Study on Child Abuse conducted by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, more than 53% of children across 13 states in India reported facing some form of sexual abuse, with 22% experiencing severe sexual abuse. Both boys and girls are at risk of being sexually abused, and in most cases, the abuser is someone known to the child and may even be living in the same household.
Children are vulnerable to sexual abuse because they may not understand that they are being abused, and abusers often use chocolates and toys to lure them. Furthermore, children are more easily threatened and less likely to speak out about the abuse. As a result, it is our responsibility as a society to take steps to protect our children from sexual abuse. If you suspect a child has been sexually abused, it is crucial to provide them with appropriate medical and psychological support.
While the principles of medical examination and treatment for children remain the same as those for adults, there are some specific guidelines that every medical professionals must bear in mind:
Consent for Medical Examination
In case the child is under 12 years of age, consent for examination needs to be sought from the parent or guardian. Seeking consent from a parent or guardian is a critical step in ensuring that the child receives proper medical care. The parent or guardian is in the best position to provide the necessary information about the child’s medical history and any relevant information related to the abuse. This information is crucial for medical professionals to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
It is important to remember that seeking consent for examination is just the first step in providing medical care to a child sexual abuse survivor. Medical professionals must also be sensitive to the specific needs of the child, adjust treatment doses as necessary, and provide psychological support to both the child and their caregivers.
Screen for Possible Abusers During Medical Care
When it comes to treating child sexual abuse survivors, it is essential to be vigilant and take appropriate steps to protect the child from further harm, including screening for possible abusers.
In some cases, the abuser may accompany the child during medical treatment, making it challenging to provide care without putting the child at risk. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the possibility of abuse and take appropriate steps to screen for it.
One effective strategy is to have a female person present during the examination. This person can be appointed by the head of the hospital or institution and can help to ensure the safety and well-being of the child during the medical examination.
Medical professionals have a duty to report suspected cases of child abuse to the appropriate authorities and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
Listening to the Little Ones:
Medical professionals has responsibility to provide comprehensive care to the patients, including child sexual abuse survivors. One of the challenges faced in treating young children is getting an accurate history of the abuse they have experienced. However, it is essential not to assume that just because the child is young, they cannot provide useful information.
By using dolls and body charts, medical professionals can help facilitate history taking and get a better understanding of the abuse the child has experienced. Dolls can be used to help the child demonstrate the abuse they have experienced, while body charts can help them identify the areas of their body where they have been touched.
It is crucial to approach this process with sensitivity and care, as it can be a difficult and emotional experience for the child. Medical professionals should be patient and reassuring, providing a safe space for the child to share their experiences.
Must Believe Children Reporting Sexual Abuse
Children who have experienced sexual abuse may be hesitant to come forward and report their experiences, for fear of not being believed. It is essential for medical professionals to approach these cases with an open mind and a willingness to believe the child’s story.
There are common misconceptions that children may lie or be coached by parents to make false complaints against others. However, research has shown that these assumptions are not true, and children are generally truthful when disclosing sexual abuse.
It is crucial for medical professionals to recognize the signs of sexual abuse and respond appropriately, believing and supporting the child throughout the process. The trauma of sexual abuse can have long-lasting effects on a child’s physical and mental health, and it is vital for medical professionals to provide comprehensive care and support.
By breaking the myths and believing what is being reported by the child, medical professionals can help ensure that child sexual abuse survivors receive the care and support they need to heal and recover from their traumatic experiences.
Meeting Their Specific Needs
The trauma of child sexual abuse can have long-lasting effects on a child’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. It is essential for medical professionals to provide specialized care that takes into account the specific needs of child survivors.
Medical treatment doses may need to be adjusted for children, and psychological support is critical for helping them process and heal from their experiences. It is important for medical professionals to speak with both the child survivor and their caregivers to provide comprehensive care.
Children who have experienced sexual abuse may struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation, and may have difficulty trusting others. It is essential for medical professionals to create a safe and supportive environment where the child feels comfortable discussing their experiences and receiving treatment.
Sensitive Screening for Sexual Abuse
When screening for sexual abuse, health professionals should prioritize assuring confidentiality and providing privacy, as these factors enable children to disclose abuse. It’s important to note that genital and anal examinations should not be performed routinely or mechanically. A few indicators for routine inquiry are:
- Pain on urination and/or defecation
- Abdominal pain/generalized body ache
- Inability to sleep
- Sudden withdrawal from peers/adults
- Feelings of anxiety, nervousness, helplessness
- Inability to sleep
- Weight loss
- Feelings of ending one’s life
It is also essential to create awareness among children, parents, and caregivers about the importance of recognizing and reporting cases of child sexual abuse. Educating children about body safety and teaching them to speak up when they feel uncomfortable or unsafe can go a long way in preventing such cases.
In conclusion, child sexual abuse is a heinous crime that must be addressed urgently. It is important to note that child sexual abuse can have significant long-term effects on the mental and physical health of the survivor. Therefore, it is crucial to provide appropriate medical and psychological support to survivors of child sexual abuse. Additionally, it is essential to create awareness among children, parents, and caregivers about the importance of recognizing and reporting cases of child sexual abuse. Educating children about body safety and teaching them to speak up when they feel uncomfortable or unsafe can go a long way in preventing such cases. It is the responsibility of society as a whole to protect children and ensure their well-being.