Why do sexually abused children wet the bed

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Fear of certain people or place e. Stress may be caused by many situations, such as the birth of a sibling, divorce, death of a family member, problems at school or child abuse. When it comes to child abuse, bed wetting is usually associated with sexual abuse.

While bed wetting may be a warning sign of sexual abuse, it usually occurs in combination with other symptoms. Each year in the United States, more than 3 million cases of child abuse are reported, with sexual abuse accounting for 8 percent of cases, according to Childhelp, a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping victims of child abuse and neglect. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics reports that studies show up to one in four girls and one in eight boys are sexually abused by age Besides secondary bed wetting, other signs of sexual abuse include fearful behavior, abdominal or genital pain, urinary tract infection, or inappropriate sexual behavior.

If your child has a bed wetting problem, consult your pediatrician. He will perform an exam to determine if there is a physical cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. Your pediatrician will also be able to look for signs of possible abuse and report suspected cases to the appropriate authorities so that you and your child receive the help you need.

Most importantly, take action immediately to ensure the health and safety of your child. Based in Putnam County, N. Every nine minutes , child protective services finds enough evidence to substantiate a claim of child sexual abuse, although we know child sexual abuse occurs much more frequently. Child sexual abuse includes any kind of inappropriate sexual act or behavior with a child. It may also include non-physical contact e. Abusers may also be teachers, coaches or instructors, caretakers, and others in positions of authority.

An abuser may look and act just like everyone else, but the trauma they inflict is utterly devastating. Learn how to protect your child from sexual abuse. Although many children who have been sexually abused show signs, many others do not.