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From now on, children can turn to one counter for their gynecological complaints. Think of itching or severe menstrual complaints. The latter is the biggest reason for female teenagers to call in sick from school. Girls with birth defects – such as a shallow vagina or uterine problems – can also go there.
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To gain knowledge
It is desperately needed, thinks Emmy van den Boogaard, pediatric gynaecologist at the AMC. “We have been seeing children with gynecological problems for years. As far as we are concerned, we need to be able to structurally discuss this with other disciplines within the hospital.” Think, for example, of paediatricians and plastic surgeons, but also sexologists and physiotherapists. “By joining forces, we increase knowledge.”
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In the future, patients can therefore go to a special center where the expertises come together. The VUmc and the AMC work together in this area. While the VUmc knows a lot about gender, the AMC knows a lot about sexology. “The consultation and intensive collaboration should improve the experience for the patient,” Van den Boogaard told EditieNL. “The girls then see me or one of my colleagues. We discuss how we can help her and see what we can do about the problem.”
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‘Make it negotiable’
It is important that the center also focuses on the sexological aspect, thinks Belle Barbé, pedagogue and specialist in sexual education. “Sexuality should be discussed from an early age, even if a child is young and not yet sexually active. It is also important to look at the sexual behavior of young children,” says the specialist.
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It can be difficult or strange for parents to talk about this with their young children. A good way to start the conversation is by using reasons, thinks Barbé. “You can use something that happens on TV or on the street to bring it up.” You are the example as a parent. “If you find it difficult yourself, it is also difficult for your child. It often helps to do something physically during the conversation, such as washing the dishes.”
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Taboo
Discussion is necessary to break the taboo on sexuality among children, thinks Barbé. “Sexuality is viewed through adult glasses. Children are seen as innocent, as if we have to protect them,” she says. “But sexuality is about much more than just sex. It’s about discovering your body and that’s healthy at a young age. You have to see it much broader.”
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