Vulvovaginitis is inflammation of the vulva and vagina. It is common in younger females but anyone can get it. Even though people associate vaginal infections with sexual activities, it is not the case for younger children.

Younger females do not have hair or a fatty libia for protection. As a result chemicals, medication and soaps can cause irritation to the vulva. A foreign object such as a toilet paper that is logged there can cause inflammation.

You should also know that your growing daughter may not have estrogen yet to defend her vaginal tract and the pH of her vagina is high which makes it conducive for bacteria to grow there. She may not have also  mastered the front to back wiping yet.

What are the causes of vulvovaginitis ?

There are many types  and causes of vulvovaginitis .  Some of the possible causes include the following :

• bacteria imbalance which results when the  normal balance of certain bacteria is upset. This results in an overgrowth of that  particular bacteria
• poor hygiene which can result when germs are introduced into the vagina  from the anus. The anatomical presentation of the anus and vagina makes it easy for bacteria from the anus to be introduced into the vagina especially during wiping after bowel movement
• pinworms usually lay egg in the anus. Itching and irritation caused by these worms can spread to the vagina
• irritants such as soap, bubble baths and antiseptics can result in this condition
• moisture or dampness around the vulva can lead to irritation. This can be caused by tight clothes or obesity
• foreign objects such as toilet paper can get stuck in the vagina and cause  odor or discharge or even bleeding
• yeast infection
• sexual abuse :  If your child’s  culture comes back positive for sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis  or gonorrhea, she will be evaluated for sexual abuse
• skin condition known as  Lichen sclerosus  results in  patchy, white, thin areas of skin appear, often on the genitals. It may cause very sensitive skin and vulvovaginitis.

What are the symptoms of vulvovaginitis ?

Symptoms of this condition include :

• itching in the vaginal area
• vaginal discharge
• burning or stinging during urination
• redness of the skin between the labia majora (outside lips of the vagina)

How is vulvovaginitis treated ?

If your doctor suspects your daughter has this condition, he will  examine the child’s  external genital and take a  sample on a swab. If it is confirmed that she has the infection, treatment will depend on the cause.

If it’s a bacterial infection, she will need antibiotics. The doctor may also suggest topical antibiotic, antifungal cream, hydrocortisone cream, or an ointment to speed healing and soothe pain depending on the diagnosis.He may also recommend the following

• frequent warm  baths with no soap
• epsom salt soaks
• using wet wipes for sensitive skin
• avoiding  bubble baths and antiseptics in  the bath
• wearing loose cotton underwear
• avoid tight-fitting clothes
• encourage your child to urinate with her knees apart
• child should be completely dry after taking a shower or bath  before dressing up