VAGINAL ITCHING OR IRRITATION

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR SOAP VULVITIS

  1. 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.
  2. Steroid Cream:  Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream to the genital area after soaks for 1 or 2 days.
  3. 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.
  4. Expected Course:  If the symptoms are due to soap vulvitis, they should all clear within 1 to 2 days with proper treatment.
  5. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Irritation persists on treatment for more than 48 hours.
    • Vaginal discharge or bleeding occurs.
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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