1835 S Front Street, Lonoke 72086
501-676-2552
YOUR CHILD'S
Medical Exam
Is the Medical Exam required?
A medical exam is available for all children who come for an interview, when appropriate. We do not subject a child to a medical exam if there is not a valid concern and no child will be forced to have one.
The investigator may request a child to have an exam if:
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The abuse involved the child’s genitalia or anus
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Child has symptoms of vaginal or rectal pain, itching, burning, bleeding, discharge
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Child or parent has concerns that can best be answered by an examination
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Child would be reassured by an examination
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Extent or type of abuse is unclear and may be clarified by an examination
What can be expected during my child's medical exam?
The medical exam will take place at Wade Knox Children's Advocacy Center, in a child-friendly exam room. The exam will include a medical history from both the child and the caregiver.
The child will receive a thorough head to toe exam, similar to a normal check-up at a Pediatrician’s office. This exam will also include an external inspection of the genitalia and anal area to make sure they appear normal. It is highly unusual for a preadolescent child to require an internal vaginal or rectal examination. It is important to understand that the child’s medical exam is different and less invasive than an adult pelvic examination.
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A special video camera called a colposcope is used during the examination. This allows the nurse to see a child’s genital and anal areas more closely. The camera never touches the child’s body and is never felt by the child. Photographs may be taken during the exam to provide an accurate record of what the child’s body looks like at the time of the examination. While the camera does not touch the child, the nurse will have to touch the genital and anal areas with her hands. Some children will be checked for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy based on the Center’s protocol.
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For most children, the check-up is not painful. Nevertheless, children may feel worried, embarrassed or uncomfortable about their exam. It is normal for children to feel anxious about their examination. The nurse will take as much time as necessary to help children throughout the medical evaluation by explaining each step of the check-up and finding ways to put the child at ease.
What should I tell my child about their medical exam?
If you child does require a medical examination, let them know that the purpose of the exam is to ensure that his or her body is healthy. Reassure your child that the exam will not cause pain and that the medical examiner will inform them of each step that is taking place. If a Medical Exam is not requested by the investigative team; however, you wish for your child to receive one, please inform you Advocate.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Who can be present during the medical exam?
Many children request their caregiver to be in the exam room with them to provide support and reassurance. Other children prefer to do the exam on their own. Should you child desire to complete their exam alone, we ask that you respect their preference.
Will the medical exam show if my child has been sexually abused or not?
Not necessarily. Most children have no physical injuries to their genital or anal areas. This does not mean that no sexual abuse has occurred. It is possible that children have been involved in sexual activity but have not injured their bodies in a way that leave lasting physical signs.
