Treatment and prevention of vulvovaginitis in young girls

Many people believe that vulvovaginitis only occurs in adult women, but infants and young children may also be affected by this disease, so it is necessary to focus on active treatment and correct diagnosis. Common causes include Trichomonas or fungal infection and acute gonorrhea, so attention must be paid to treatment and prevention.

1. Trichomonas or fungal vulvitis

Since the vaginal pH of infants and young children is alkaline and lacks glycogen, it is not suitable for the reproduction and growth of fungi and Trichomonas. Therefore, fungal or Trichomonas vulvitis in infants and young children is rare. When clinical differentiation is needed, smear and culture of secretions can be done.

2. Pinworm vulvitis

An inflammation of the vulva caused by intestinal pinworms transmitted to the vulva and vagina through feces. It is characterized by extreme itching of the vulva and anus, and a large amount of thin yellow purulent secretions. Pinworms can be identified by examination of fecal eggs and by visualization of pinworms around the anus or on the vulva.

3. Acute gonorrhea in young girls

It is characterized by local pain and difficulty urinating. During examination, increased secretions may be seen, and redness, swelling and ulceration may occur in the vestibule, urethral orifice, vulva and even around the anus. Typical kidney-shaped Gram-negative diplococci may be found in the secretion smear.

4. Treatment

Specific infections should be ruled out first, and the secretions should be sent for examination for Trichomonas and fungi. If necessary, culture can be performed to identify the pathogenic bacteria and give appropriate antibiotics. Apply potassium permanganate in an appropriate proportion for local sitz bath, apply antibiotic ointment externally, and keep the vulva clean and dry.

5. Prevention

Keep the baby's vulva clean and dry. When using diapers for babies, it is best to choose pure cotton, which is soft and breathable. It is best not to use diapers when you are not going out. Change diapers promptly after urination and defecation, and clean the vulva 1 to 2 times a day, paying special attention to cleaning and gently drying the labia and skin folds. Try not to let your child sit or lie on the floor, and as early as possible, stop them from wearing open-crotch pants, tight pants, or high socks made of synthetic fibers; clothes should be soft, loose, and comfortable. Cleanliness after urination and defecation should not be neglected. After defecation, use clean toilet paper to wipe from front to back. In addition, children's bathtubs, towels, etc. should be used by designated persons only to avoid cross infection with adults.