A dermatologist will want to look at the skin to make sure you don’t have any skin changes seen in a condition of the vulva called lichen sclerosus and may also take a swab (by rubbing the skin with a cotton bud) to check for certain types of infection. Sometimes vulvitis is due to poor hygiene such as wiping after a poo from back to front, instead of front to back. This could be from bubble bath, shampoo, shower gel or perfumed soap that is left on the genital area. Most vaginal itching or discomfort is due to soaps irritating the vulval skin. This problem almost always occurs in young girls before puberty and the symptoms are often worse at night.īefore puberty, the lining of the vulva is very thin and sensitive to any product containing soap. The main symptom of vulvitis is itch, but the vulva may also become painful, and passing urine (when you wee) can be uncomfortable.

Vulvitis is when the vulva becomes swollen, sore, itchy or inflamed. The skin of the vulva has lots of nerves in it, which means it is very sensitive to touch. Around puberty, when a lot of changes happen to your body, the vulva also changes in particular the inside flaps (called labia minora) grow, and it is quite normal for them to be visible. The vulva is quite tucked inside when you are young. You and your family may have your own name for it. The vulva is sometimes called vagina, private parts or just privates. In fact, the vagina is the tube (which connects to the womb) and where babies come through when they are born. A lot of people (even grown-ups) call this the vagina. The vulva is the outer part of female genitals.

The information will also be helpful to parents. It tells you what it is, what causes it, what can be done about it and where you can find out more about it. This leaflet has been written to help children and young people understand more about vulvitis. Further informationĪlways consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.Written for parents and young people (key stage 2 and above) © Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. The above information is an educational aid only. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. You have the right to help plan your child's care. You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.Your child's symptoms return after treatment.Your child's symptoms get worse, even after treatment.Your child has unusual vaginal bleeding.Help your child wash her vagina each day.This will prevent germs from getting into her vagina. Remind your child to wipe from front to back after she urinates or has a bowel movement.Remind your child to wash her hands with soap and water after she uses the toilet.How can I help my child prevent infections?

The vagina is delicate and easily irritated. Examples include bubble baths and perfumed soaps.

Do not let your child use irritating products in your vagina.

Help your child remember to not wear tight-fitting clothes or undergarments.

These will help decrease itching and inflammation.

Examples include petroleum jelly, zinc creams, or hydrocortisone creams. Use over-the-counter creams or ointments as directed.The warm water can help decrease pain and swelling. Do this 3 times a day, and after each bowel movement. Have your child sit in the sitz bath for 15 minutes. You may also use a sitz bath pan that fits inside a toilet bowl. Fill a bathtub with 4 to 6 inches of warm water. How can I help my child manage her symptoms? An odor from your child's vagina that may be foul or smell like fish.Pain, itching, redness, burning, or swelling in your child's vagina.What are the signs and symptoms of vaginitis? Medicines may be given as a pill, or as a cream, gel, or tablet you insert into her vagina. Your child may be given medicines to treat an infection caused by bacteria or a fungus. Other causes include a foreign object or exposure to a chemical irritant. Vaginitis is commonly caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Vaginitis is inflammation or infection of your child's vagina.

Vaginal itch cream for children