Is My Baby Boy Sexually Abused?
by June
(Florida)
I think my inlaws enjoy seeing my baby boy’s masculine parts, they put excuses to change the diapers each time we visit them, to bathe him each time they change the diapers, and they claim that I should remove the diapers completely to make it easy for the baby to play.
Is it in a way an abuse?
Baby Help Line:
Baby Sexually Abused Or Not?
I would not consider this is abuse. Unless you feel they are getting sexual arousal out of their behavior, which would be unlikely then I would not really be so concerned.
However, if you are uncomfortable with their behavior, then talk it over with your husband, and then talk to them about it. If you are not comfortable with your baby being naked in front of others then that is your choice.
Some families have very different attitudes to body parts, particularly genitals. It maybe they are far more liberal than the way you were brought up so you feel uncomfortable they way they draw attention to it. Some cultures and families, particularly with boys tend to admire their penis as a sign he is a big strong boy, the same as you would strong legs!
Babies are sensual little creatures, and a baby boy can have an erection (even though it certainly has nothing to do with sex)! It is healthy for them to have a kick without diapers on, both for the fresh air, and the extra freedom to kick without a wad between his legs.
You want your little boy to grow up loving all parts of his body, but at the same time learning which parts we keep private. Babies don’t care who sees them, and family members love to be part of the caring of a little one.
I love bathing babies, and it is a sensual loving experience, but that is very different from a sexual experience.
If you feel the boundaries you are comfortable with are not being respected then you need to talk it over with your husband and his family. You absolutely have the right to make the decision about who bathes or changes your baby.
Enjoy you little boy,
All the best,
Annie Desantis
Find comments below.
Comments for “Is My Baby Boy Sexually Abused?” | ||
| ||
| ||
| ||
| ||
| ||
We have changed to a new commenting system. Add your comments below or return to Baby Injuries Q&A. |