The only positive vaginal culture that is DEFINITIVE confirmation of sexual abuse is Neisseria gonorrhea.
Vertically transmitted Chlamydia may persist for up to 3 years (does not confirm abuse in children <3yrs)
Syphilis may also be present due to vertical transmission (often presents as secondary syphilis)
Trichomonas can also be transmitted perinatally and may persist for 6-9 months.
However, it has NOT been found in children >1 year without history of sexual contact.
Remember that CULTURES need to be sent for GC and Chlamydia. DNA probes and nonculture methods are NOT recommended in this age group for evaluation of potential sexual abuse.
