Preparing sexually abused girls for genital evaluation

Sexually abused children need physical evaluation to determine if they have been injured, infected, or impregnated by the activity, and to reassure them about their bodies. The physical evaluation can be very frightening because it may involve sensations similar to those felt during the abuse. In order to cope, children need information about the purpose and process of the procedure, the sensations and emotions they can expect to experience, and training in how to manage their emotional responses. This protocol is offered as a structure for providing the information in a timely and effective way.