Pediatric Intervention Could Prevent Potentially Fatal Autoerotic Asphyxiation

Main Category: Pediatrics / Children's Health
Article Date: 13 Oct 2009 - 16:00 PST

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Voluntary asphyxiation among children, preteens and adolescents by hanging, or other oxygen-depriving action to enhance sexual arousal, is not uncommon and can lead to unintended death.

In the study, "Autoerotic Asphyxiation: Secret Pleasure - Lethal Outcome?" The author reviewed cases of both fatal and nonfatal child and teen autoerotic asphyxiation (AEA). The author then compiled a list of common characteristics, causes, risk factors and manifestations of AEA, a secretive behavior more common among boys than girls. The earliest manifestations of AEA include so-called "choking games."

The study encourages pediatricians to become familiar with the early signs of AEA so they can intercede before the practice becomes life-threatening.

Source
American Academy of Pediatrics