ABSTRACT
Enlargement of the clitoris, sometimes accompanied by a degree of induration approaching that of cartilage, at others by a relaxed flabby state of its tissues, and always attended by abnormal irritability, is a condition of more frequent occurrence, I believe, than the majority of medical men suspect, and is for the most part brought on by self-abuse. The deplorable effects of this baneful habit, both on the physical and mental health, have been less considered in the case of females than of males, and yet they are of equal gravity, and probably as prevalent. The radical cure of the habit is, however, fortunately in our hands. Long-continued irritation of the clitoris figures among the causes of sterility, for, besides its constitutional effects, the habit acts locally on the functions of the womb, either in the same way, we may presume, as does excessive venery, or by inducing displacement of the organ.
