Vulvitis is when the outer part of the vagina (the vulva) is irritated and inflamed. The main symptom is itching of the vulva. The vulva may become painful. Passing urine may become uncomfortable. This problem almost always occurs in young girls before puberty.
Most vaginal itching or discomfort is due to a soap irritation of the vulva. The usual irritants are bubble bath, shampoo, or soap left on the genital area. Occasionally, it is due to poor hygiene (such as wiping back to front). Before puberty, the lining of the vulva is very thin and sensitive to any soaps. If the vagina becomes infected, there will be a vaginal discharge.
The discomfort goes away after 1 to 2 days of proper treatment.
Have your daughter soak her bottom in a basin or bathtub of warm water for 10 minutes. Add 4 tablespoons of baking soda per tub of warm water. (Note: Baking soda is better than vinegar soaks for the younger age group). Be sure she spreads her legs and allows the water to cleanse the genital area. No soap should be used. Repeat this twice a day for the next 2 days. This will remove any soap, concentrated urine, or other irritants from the genital area and promote healing. After the symptoms go away, cleanse the genital area once a day with warm water.
Apply a tiny amount of 1% hydrocortisone cream (a nonprescription item) to the genital area after the soaks. Do this for 2 days, then stop using it.
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