Doctor Betti
Dr. Betti Hertzberg Ressler is a Board Certified Pediatrician on staff at Miami Children's Hospital. Dr. Hertzberg developed the toilet training video "Let's Go Potty." She is the co-author of "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies for Children."

Caught in the Act

Question: I caught my 10-year-old son getting in my tampons I think he might be doing something with them but I don't know how to approach him on this. - Roxane

Answer: It sounds like you've "caught" your son in the act! You didn't say what it was he was doing with the tampons.

It's important that your son feels comfortable with you. If he (or anyone for that matter) is approached in a manner that is non accusatory, he may feel that it's OK to tell mom that he was just curious and wanted to "check it out." If you approach him with ("what are you doing?????), he might feel backed into the corner and feel embarrassed. It may be a very innocent curiosity. Let him have the chance to tell you that.

If it happens that he was doing something that is not "approved," be open and gentle. It will be something that will help him be honest and open in the future, should anything else come up of similar nature.

Dr. Betti

Also see:

  • Plantar's warts
  • Is it safe for an 11-year-old to use tampons?
  • Ask Dr. Betti your questions
  • Recently asked questions

    This information is not intended to be a substitute for visiting your pediatrician. If you or your child has specific concerns, you should see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.