Why Is My Little Girls Vaginal Area Red and Swollen?

Vaginal redness and swelling in young girls is often caused by vulvitis. This condition may manifest as redness and swelling of the external genitalia, with possible scratches on the skin. The urethral and vaginal mucosa may become congested and edematous, and the labia minora may show signs of adhesion. There may also be a discharge of pus-like secretions from the vaginal opening. The vulva, clitoris, urethral opening, and vaginal mucosa may all exhibit signs of congestion, edema, and purulent secretions.

The underwear may often have dried pustular crusts or traces of thin, watery discharge. The vulva may appear red, swollen, and even show signs of skin peeling. Localized scratching and bleeding may also occur. In some cases, there may be adhesion of the labia minora, resulting in a narrower urine stream. Upon examination, the area of adhesion in the labia minora may appear thinner and more transparent.

Other symptoms may include pain, itching, and an increase in vaginal secretions. Parents should remind girls to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the external genitalia to reduce friction. Avoiding wearing pants with open crotches can help reduce the risk of contamination. After urinating or defecating, it is important to clean the vulva, especially after bowel movements, using non-irritating soap or cleanser. Applying baby powder or zinc oxide powder after cleaning can help keep the area dry.

During acute episodes, sitz baths may be prescribed 2-3 times per day. After the bath, the genital area should be gently dried with a cloth and antibiotic ointment, such as erythromycin or aureomycin, should be applied. In cases of severe itching, hydrocortisone ointment may also be used. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed based on the specific pathogen involved, or antibiotic solutions may be administered vaginally using a syringe.

Additional treatment may include antiparasitic therapy for pinworm infestations and removal of any foreign bodies from the vagina. In cases of labial adhesion that is not too severe, gentle separation may be attempted after cleaning the vulva. Antibiotic ointment or 40% lithospermum oil should be applied to the separated area daily to prevent re-adhesion until the epithelium has healed. In more severe cases, a curved mosquito clamp may be used to gently separate the adhered areas, and the same ointments or oils should be applied to prevent re-adhesion.

For stubborn cases, ethinyl estradiol (stilbestrol) may be added to the lithospermum oil or ointments for topical application. It is important to follow the advice of a healthcare provider and monitor the condition closely to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.