Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation of the vulva and vagina that often appears when girls start attending kindergarten or school. Let's try to understand in more detail how to treat vaginal infections in girls and how to recognize the cause.
Infectious or non-infectious inflammation : how to understand?
Vulvovaginitis in girls can be caused by several factors. First of all, it is necessary to distinguish between vaginal infections and non-infectious inflammations . Most of what are considered infections are actually banal non-infectious inflammations of the mucous membrane of the genitals, which, however, if neglected, can facilitate the penetration of microbes .
Non-infectious inflammations are manifested by redness, burning, swelling of the mucous membrane, sometimes accompanied by a slight discharge of mucus. Infections are characterized by a more abundant yellowish-white secretion, often accompanied by severe itching and burning during urination, up to traces of blood if the mucous membrane is especially irritated.
What are the reasons?
Inflammation can have many causes, the main one being the use and abuse of detergents. If these products are not washed off thoroughly, they remain in contact with the vaginal mucosa (which does not have the natural barriers inherent in adult women, in the form of hair, mucus). Also, do not discount the powders, softeners and various additives used to wash underwear, the remains of which often remain on the panties.
As for infections, they are favored by proximity to feces (where most microbes come from, especially E. coli). Added to this is the girl's habit of touching her intimate areas with her hands , which are not always very clean, especially at school. Keep in mind that in most cases, infections, in addition to intestinal , are of respiratory origin, caused by the same viruses that cause various colds, and which children unknowingly bring to their genitals with their hands.
Girls and young women with sensitive and allergy-prone skin or those taking antibiotics that weaken the body's natural defenses are most susceptible to both non-infectious inflammations and infections.
How to prevent vaginal infections in girls and young women?
Don't overuse detergents and rinse your underwear thoroughly. For washing your genitals, say "no" to mom's detergents, the pH level of which is suitable for those who have already passed puberty. Before adolescence, the best detergent is alkaline pH (above 7).
Wash your hands frequently - this is the most effective form of prevention of respiratory and vaginal tract infections. Check if girls go to the toilet during the day. Often, when concentrating on play, they tend to postpone urination, which increases urine stagnation and the concentration of bacteria.
How is vulvovaginitis treated in girls?
In case of non-infectious inflammation, you just need to avoid contact with all irritants and lubricate the affected area with a moisturizing and soothing cream. However, you should avoid using ointments containing zinc oxide as they interfere with proper sweating.
If you suspect an infection, it is advisable to visit a pediatric gynecologist at the Bogolyuby Medical Center , who, if in doubt, will prescribe a vaginal smear (this can be done for girls, since only external discharge is collected), as well as a urine test. to determine if there is a urinary tract infection. For treatment, apply an antibacterial or antifungal cream externally for 4-5 days. If inflammation does not resolve, oral therapy may be needed.
