Observing children's genitals: parental vigilance

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Extract from the article: Observing the genitals of a young girl or boy is a sensitive but essential task for parents, especially in the early years of life. Whether for reasons of hygiene, health, or education, it is sometimes necessary to examine or monitor this area of the

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Observing the genitals of a young girl or boy is a sensitive but essential task for parents, especially in the early years of life. Whether for reasons of hygiene, health, or education, it is sometimes necessary to examine or monitor this area of the body. However, this practice must always be guided by principles of respect, kindness, and vigilance in order to protect the child's physical and psychological integrity.

Several situations are common in boys. For example, the testicles do not always descend properly into the scrotum (the small pouch under the penis), a condition known as cryptorchidism. Sometimes, the opening of the urethra, the small canal that allows urination, is not located in the right place, but below the penis. This is called hypospadias. Finally, the foreskin, the small piece of skin that covers the glans, may be too tight. This is called phimosis.

In girls, the labia minora can sometimes stick together partially, a condition known as synechiae. The hymen, the thin membrane that partially closes the entrance to the vagina, can sometimes be completely closed, preventing normal menstrual flow later on. In very rare cases, nature complicates matters further and makes it difficult to clearly distinguish sex at birth. This is referred to as a disorder of sex development.

These disorders often occur for several reasons. They may be linked to family history, certain influences during pregnancy such as exposure to hormone-disrupting substances, or premature birth, which increases the risk of undescended testicles. In many cases, it is a combination of factors.

To detect these abnormalities early, examination of the genitals should begin at birth and continue regularly during diaper changes or baths. Around the age of 2-3, special vigilance is required, as certain abnormalities, such as undescended testicles, must be treated quickly to avoid future complications. Carefully observe children's private parts, never pull on a tight foreskin, and do not attempt to separate stuck labia. If in doubt, consult a doctor.

Early diagnosis can prevent complications such as infertility or infections, and enable the most appropriate treatment to be planned. Depending on the case, this may involve simple monitoring, local treatment, or, in some serious cases, reconstructive surgery. In Togo, the necessary resources are available, and specialists are able to guide parents every step of the way.

William O.

Article validated by Dr. Bénédicta Kafui Améwoui, Gynecologist-Obstetrician, Head of the Group Medical Clinic (Lomé, Togo)