If itching of the anus is main symptom, see PINWORMS
Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If
Your child looks or acts very sick
Could be from sexual abuse
Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 and 4) If
You think your child needs to be seen
Vaginal discharge
Fever is present
Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If
You have other questions or concerns
Over age 10 (Reason: soap vulvitis is unusual)
Vaginal irritation persists after on treatment for 2 days
Parent Care at Home
Probable chemical/soap vulvitis and you don’t think your child needs to be seen
Home Care Advice for Soap Vulvitis
Baking Soda-Warm Water Soaks: Soak for 20 minutes to remove irritants and to promote healing.
Add 2 oz. 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 4 times per day for 2 days.
Steroid Cream: Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream to the genital area after soaks for 1 or 2 days.
Avoid Soaps: Avoid bubble bath, soap, and shampoo to the vulva because they are irritants. Only use warm water to cleanse the vulva or baby oil to remove secretions.
Expected Course: If the symptoms are due to soap vulvitis, they should all clear within 1 to 2 days with proper treatment.
Call Your Doctor If
Irritation persists on treatment > 48 hours
Vaginal discharge or bleeding occurs.
Your child becomes worse or develops any of the “Call Your Doctor” symptoms
