Thinking of your child being sexually trafficked, assaulted, or abused is a parent’s worst nightmare. As a pediatrician, I have witnessed firsthand the physical, mental, and emotional toll that child sex trafficking and exploitation can have on both the victim and the victim’s family. The actions of others are often beyond our control; however, there are things that we as parents can do to prevent child sex trafficking or exploitation involving our own children as well as others’.
Some strategies may seem more obvious, such as not leaving your child unattended, particularly in public places, and being supportive of your child’s “stranger danger” instinct. Although, often times, the perpetrator is known to the victim—a parent, family member, family friend, or a romantic partner. I recommend that parents encourage their children to speak up any time they are in a scenario or under the care of another person who makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe, even if that person is known to them.
In addition, it is important to teach children the anatomically correct terms for their “private parts” (e.g. “penis” and “vagina”) and when it is appropriate for others to visualize these areas (e.g. parent or trusted caregiver if a child is needing assistance with diaper changes, toileting, or bathing and doctors only when visualization is medically necessary and parent/trusted caregiver is present).
If you think your child may be a victim of sexual abuse or assault, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If the event happened within the preceding 72 hours, seeking emergency medical attention is advised. For more recommendations regarding keeping your child safe, reach out to your child’s pediatrician—our job is to help keep your child healthy, happy, and safe!
by: Shanna Sharber, M.D., F.A.A.P., Board-certified Pediatrician
About Dr. Sharber
Shanna is a board-certified pediatrician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She practices at a local community health center where she provides primary care services to medically underserved children living in Madison and surrounding counties. She completed her undergraduate work at Eastern Kentucky University (Go Colonels!), medical school at the University of Kentucky (Go Cats!), and pediatric residency at the University of Louisville, Norton Children’s Hospital (Go Cards!). Originally from Richmond, she enjoys spending time with her family, being a part of a church plant downtown, and supporting local businesses. She looks forward to serving on Redeeming Hope’s Board. Mostly, she is excited to see the vision for a safe home and community for trafficked and sexually exploited adolescent females to heal come to fruition.
