CLYDEBANK'S health board have urged parents to stop using improper names for their child's private parts, such as "wee man" and "tinkle".

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde's sexual health service, Sandyford, said the variety of words used to refer to the penis or vagina cause confusion for youngsters and lead to an inability to ask mum and dad questions or give accurate information surrounding their genitals.

A new website and video from the group are encouraging parents to tell it like it is and use the accurate terms from an early age.

Jill Wilson, health improvement lead at Sandyford, said: "Many adults were not taught these words growing up and can feel uncomfortable using them as they can be thought of as ‘sexual’ words.

"Young children do not have these associations and usually consider these words to be as normal as ‘hand’, ‘leg’ etc “We have consulted parents across NHSGGC, on their role in educating children about growing up, puberty, sexual health and relationships.

“Parents have told us they are keen to back up the learning that children get in school, but many feel unsure about what to talk about, when, and what language to use. So we built a website to provide this information and support parents in this area.”

Jill added: “We’ve also made a very short film, on the theme of language, which we hope will make parents laugh and then share on various social media platforms and by word of mouth.

"The film is now available on the homepage of the website.”

One mum, Lyndsey McGowan, from Alexandria, said she found the website a helpful tool for discussing the subject with her child.

Ms McGowan said: “I struggle to talk to my nine-year-old about this subject.

"The website is a great help, it’s easy to use and gives you tips on things you can’t normally find online. It covers everything I am going through at the moment with my child.”

Ms Wilson added: “Most parents want their kids to direct their curious questions to them but sometimes we need a hand with how to answer them.

"For many parents, this is particularly so for questions about growing up, changing bodies, relationships and sexual health. Fear not, we’re here to help.”

For more information, visit.sandyford.org/parents-sandyford/.