Childhood sexual abuse in Arbaminch town, Southern Ethiopia

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) includes unwanted and inappropriate sexual solicitation or exposure to a child by an older person that is verbal harassment, genital touching or fondling, and penetration in terms of oral, anal or vaginal intercourse (rape) or attempted intercourse. This study revealed high levels of CSA in Arbaminch town. Living arrangement, ever having a discussion about sexuality and reproductive health with parents, father's educational status and monthly income were significantly associated with CSA. Discussion with parents or guardians about sexuality and reproductive health has a preventive effect on CSA. Students who were living alone or with their friends were at higher risk of experiencing CSA than those living with their biological parents. Students who reported to have experienced sexual abuse ended up with different negative reproductive outcomes: unwanted pregnancy and abortion were the most common ones. Comprehensive school based reproductive health education, community based awareness creation, open discussions about sexuality and reproductive health matters with students at family level are recommended.