Injuries to the female genital area (labia, vulva, vagina)
Injuries to the male genital area (scrotum or penis)
Most are bruises (with swelling) or minor cuts that heal rapidly in 3 to 4 days. Minor injuries can cause lots of bleeding here because of the rich blood supply.
Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance)
Major bleeding that can't be stopped
Fainted or too weak to stand following major blood loss
Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If
You think your child has a serious injury
External bleeding that won't stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure
Bleeding from inside the vagina
Vaginal injury with a penetrating object
Skin split open or gaping and may need stitches
Swollen or painful scrotum
Painful urination or difficulty passing urine
Blood in the urine
Severe pain
Age < 1 year old
Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 and 4) If
You think your child needs to be seen
Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If
You have other questions or concerns
Parent Care at Home
Mild genital injury and you don’t think your child needs to be seen
Home Care Advice for Mild Genital Injuries
Bleeding: For any bleeding, apply direct pressure for 10 minutes with a sterile gauze. Note: minor cuts in the genital area can cause much oozing of blood because of the rich blood supply. For the same reason, the area heals quickly (3 or 4 days).
Cleansing: For minor cuts, wash the area with soap and water for 5 minutes.
Local Cold: For swelling, apply ice or a cold compress for 20 minutes (if tolerated).
