11 month old

My son is eleven months and whenever his nappy is off he constantly pulls at his testicles. It does it so much and so hard I think he's going to hurt himself! Is this normal? It started about the same time he started being restless in the night with teething. This may seem silly but could worms have the same effect as teething? And also for the last week or so he has gone off his food and bottles. Any advice would be helpful. Thank you! Mary!


Reply from New Baby & Beyond

Hi Mary,

Ok firstly I can't remember my son ever pulling on his testicles while he was a baby, but I would assume that if it was hurting him he would stop!
If it is getting to the stage where he is hurting himself, then keep a nappy on him. Or if you want to let some air get to him, you could always buy some small cotton pants or briefs and let him stay in these for a while.

Teething symptoms can include red cheeks, dribbling, baby chewing on everything that he can put in his mouth. My doctor told me never to associate ear ache or tummy upsets with teething, but I personally believe that teething can contribute to these problems.

Your little boy may just be feeling run down, or have picked up a virus or cold etc. But if you are really worried, then you should probably talk to your health visitor or doctor.

Worms can cause an itchy bottom, and you may even see them in your sons nappy after he has done a poo. They look rather like thin bits of white cotton. Worms can cause your baby to go off his food, and they can also cause the total opposite with him becoming more hungry than normal.

If you think your baby has worms (and lots of children do get them at some stage in their early years) then pop him to see your doctor, describe what's happening and he/she will advise you from there. I wouldn't at this early stage in life give him over the counter remedies for worms.

Hope this helps

Kind regards
Julie.