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Making Bath Time Fun
Expert Q&A

By Vincent Iannelli, M.D., About.com

Updated July 02, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Q. My 11 month old son has now noticed his penis while taking a bath. He looks at it, touches it, cries and immediately wants out of the tub. It is not sore, because he does not do this during a cleaning at diaper changes. Any suggestions on what I should do for him? J, York, PA

A. The fact that he doesn't seem bothered at other times is probably a good sign that there is nothing medically wrong that is causing this new problem...

It may just be a behavioral issue though, and not really because he has 'noticed his penis.'

In addition to stranger anxiety and separation anxiety, many older infants and toddlers develop a fear of taking baths.

Whether or not it is a new fear, it may help to distract your child when you begin the bath, like with some new bath toys or a washcloth puppet. Making sure that the bath water isn't too hot or too cold and using a mild bath soap might also be helpful.

It may also help to use a washcloth to cover your child's penis or maybe even let him take a bath in a 'swimmer' type diaper for a few days.

If those tips don't work, you could try to take a bath with your child or switch to sponge baths for a few weeks.

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