Anxiety excessive wiping of bottom. Stressed about being clean

[Tiredmammy]

Help please! I have a nine year old who is becoming increasingly stressed after a bowel movement about being clean. He will continue wiping and wiping even after the tissue is clean worrying it is not. He has stopped using the toilets at school for a wee as he is worried he might have a poo and take too long and be in trouble. He doesn't like the toilets either , won't use urinal. School have allowed him to use the disabled toilet if he wants too. At home he is particular about which toilet he uses and if it's a poo he is often in the toilet for sometimes 20 mins or longer. We have tried toilet wipes which help a bit but not sure how to help with his anxiety about being clean. Sometimes it does seem to take a lot of wiping to get clean what could cause this ? He does have some sensory issues re clothing and dad and sister are autistic. He does show some similar traits to both.

[ERIC-Charity Partner]

Tiredmammy wipes and bottom wiping gels can be helpful from a sensory aspect of feeling clean but have you tried using a mirror so that he can visibly see too? If not this may be worth a try. For more information on school check out our section on the website: eric.org.uk/information/sch... or contact the helpline for more advice: eric.org.uk/contact/