Sexual assault includes rape, attempted rape, and any other forced sexual contact. The assault may have been committed by a close friend or family member or by someone you don't know well.
Assault can hurt you physically. It also can hurt you emotionally. It is common to feel sad, scared, or guilty. Remember that the assault wasn't your fault. It is important to continue to get help and support for as long as you need it.
Signs of sexual abuse may not be apparent without an examination of the genital area. These signs include:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding may be caused by physical or sexual abuse that injures the abdominal or vaginal area. Vaginal bleeding in a child before the beginning of menstruation is abnormal. If a child has vaginal bleeding, talk to their doctor.
You may feel uneasy talking to the doctor about the issue of abuse, but it's important. Doctors have a professional duty and legal obligation to evaluate the possibility of abuse.
If you think your child has been sexually abused, call your child's doctor or contact the National Child Abuse Hotline and Referral Service at 1-800-422-4453. Adults need to protect young children because children cannot protect themselves.
Sexual abuse is any type of sexual activity that is done against a person's will. It can be nonviolent abuse (such as being forced to look at sexual pictures), unwanted or forced sexual touching, or violent sexual assault (such as attempted rape or rape.) The attacker may be a stranger or someone you do not know well, or it may be a close friend or a family member.
Giving your child information about date rape and abuse is important. Many teens have been physically hurt by a dating partner. It's also very important to help your child understand that date rape or abuse is never the victim's fault.
Share the following advice, which may help your child stay safer.
Especially at first, dating in groups may be more comfortable and less risky. When children are with friends who are trustworthy, they tend to be safer, even when they break rules.
Go where there are other people, where you feel comfortable and safe. Don't go to a date's home or invite them to yours. These are the places where most acquaintance rapes (date rapes) occur.
If you feel vulnerable, you might be. For example, avoid parties with alcohol or lots of people you don't know or aren't comfortable with.
Be prepared for what you'll do if a situation feels wrong. For example, you might call a parent or friend to pick you up. Arrange this ahead of time, and text them the address when you arrive.
They can reduce your ability—and that of your date—to make good decisions.
No peer, parent, or adult has the right to tell you to keep secrets from a parent, especially when someone touches your body in a way you don't want them to.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
You can also call your local police department.
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