Ear infections as a sign of sexual abuse?

by Kay
(Indianapolis, USA)

I was reading the list of physical signs for sexual abuse. One of the signs listed was "ear infections/problems/" Can you tell me why this occurs?

Thanks
Kay

Reply from Darlene: Kay, the list you refer to on my sexual abuse signs page identifies "signs," not conclusive evidence. The fact that a child suffers recurrent ear infections does not necessarily mean he/she was molested.

Ear infections are very common in children, as well as infants. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear with the throat and nose. In children, this tube is very small and is at an angle that can inhibit proper drainage. The size and orientation of the tube puts children at risk for ear infections. As the child grows, the tube changes direction, which does allow for proper drainage, which in turn means that ear infections are far less evident in older children.

Having said that, the reason ear infections/problems is a sign of sexual child abuse is a disturbing one. So please be prepared for what I am about to say.

When children are forced to perform oral sex, bacteria can develop at the back of the throat and/or nose, and thus cause ear infections/problems. But Kay, it's imperative that a combination of signs—both physical and emotional—be taken into account when determining whether or not sexual child abuse occurred and to what degree.

If you know or suspect a child is being (or was) sexually assaulted, report it to the proper authorities. But please do not assume that the child is being molested on the sole basis of recurring ear infections.

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