It must be emphasized that no single indicator is proof of sexual child abuse.  However, a pattern of behavior or regularity of occurrence is cause for concern.  Many of these are also signs of other forms of abuse and therefore warrant concern.

Physical Indicators
 

• Bruises or bleeding from external genitalia, vagina or anal areas
• Torn, stained or bloody underclothes, as well as pain, swelling, or itching in the vaginal and/or anal areas
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Stomach aches, headaches or any other physical complaints that have no medical basis
• Venereal disease cannot be contracted through nonsexual activity: children who have a venereal disease are almost certainly sexual abuse victims

• Clinging to the mother or father
• Change in sleep patterns; frequent nightmares
• Serious and prolonged objections to attending day care/school; fear of going to the home of a friend or family member
• Fear of strangers or strange situations that is overcome only with great difficulty
• Wild swings in mood or behavior
• Fear or dislike of certain people, places or thing
• Copying adult sexual behavior, seductiveness, excessive masturbation, sexual play with other children or toys
• Using sexually explicit language not used in the home
• Having sexual knowledge beyond what has been taught and behaving in a sexual manner advanced for their age
• Withdrawal from peers and activities formerly pursued

Regressive behavior such as bed wetting when previously toilet trained