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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/childsexualabuse.html

Child Sexual Abuse

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Sexual abuse is one form of child abuse. It includes a wide range of actions between a child and an adult or older child. Often these involve body contact, but not always. Exposing one's genitals to children or pressuring them for sex is sexual abuse. Using a child for pornography is also sexual abuse.

Most sexual abusers know the child they abuse. They may be family friends, neighbors or babysitters. About one-third of abusers are related to the child. Most abusers are men. If you think a child may have been abused, it's important to report it.

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The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.