Patient's question:
My daughter is 4 years old this year. Since she was 3, she often "squeezes her buttocks," which is the posture of keeping her legs tightly together when lying down. Is this normal?Doctor's answer:
Hello: It is recommended to actively seek gynecological examination for children to check for inflammation! The child's condition may be a case of (clitoral rubbing syndrome)! Clitoral rubbing syndrome is a habitual, adverse action in children characterized by rubbing the perineum, most commonly seen in girls aged 1-3. During episodes, children may display flexed legs, bringing them tightly together or crossing them inward, followed by small (small) or stiff, immobile positions. Some girls also enjoy riding chairs or rubbing their lower abdomen against hard objects repeatedly, accompanied by flushed cheeks, sweating, staring eyes, and a reluctance to be disturbed or stopped. Most episodes occur when the child is just falling asleep or just waking up. Generally, episodes occur a few times a week, but some children may experience several episodes a day.The causes of clitoral rubbing syndrome include the following aspects: 1. Local irritation: Such as vulvar wetness, pinworms, damp diapers, or tight pants that cause itching in the external genital area, leading to rubbing, which then develops into the habit. 2. Psychological factors: Some children may develop this behavior due to family tension, lack of maternal love, discrimination, or emotional dissatisfaction, with no toys to play with, resorting to self-stimulation to seek release. 3. Other causes: In older children, exposure to pornographic videos or literature can also contribute to the development of this adverse behavior.
The treatment of this condition should focus on the following points:
1. Increase awareness: Once parents notice signs of this syndrome in their child, they should consult a child psychologist early. Parents should understand the nature of the condition, avoid blaming or punishing the child, and refrain from forcefully stopping the behavior.