Vaginal Itching or Irritation

Symptoms

DEFINITION

• Genital area burning or itching in young girls
• No pain or burning with urination

Cause

• Main cause in young girls: a soap irritation of the vulva or outer vagina (soap vulvitis) from bubble bath, shampoo or other soap
• Soap vulvitis occurs exclusively prior to puberty.
• Occasionally, it is due to poor hygiene or back to front wiping.
• If the vagina becomes secondarily infected, a vaginal discharge will occur.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• Pain or burning with urination, see URINATION, PAIN.
• Itching of the anus is main symptom, see PINWORMS

Should I Call?

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR

Care at Home

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR SOAP VULVITIS

1. Reassurance:
   • Soap (especially bubble bath) is the most common cause of genital itching in young girls.
   • The vulva is very sensitive to the drying effect of soap.
   • Only cleanse the genital area with warm water.
   • After puberty, soap can be tolerated.
2. Baking Soda-Warm Water Soaks:  
   • Soak for 10 minutes to remove irritants and to promote healing.
   • Add 2 ounces (60 ml) baking soda per tub of warm water (Reason: Baking soda is better than vinegar for girls not into puberty).
   • During soaks, be sure she spreads her legs and allows the water to cleanse the genital area.
   • Repeat baking soda soaks treatment 2 times per day for 2 days.
3. Steroid Cream:  Apply a tiny amount of 1% hydrocortisone cream (no prescription needed) to the genital area after soaks for 1 or 2 days. Avoid continued use.
4. Avoid Soaps:
   • Avoid bubble bath, soap and shampoo to the genital area because they are irritants.
   • Only use warm water to cleanse the vulva
   • Baby oil can be used to remove any dried secretions from the labia.
5. Expected Course: If the symptoms are due to soap vulvitis, they should all clear within 1 to 2 days with proper treatment.
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Irritation persists on treatment over 48 hours
   • Vaginal discharge or bleeding occurs
   • Passing urine becomes painful
   • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.