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| |    Vaginal Itching and Irritation by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. Inflammation of the vulva and/or vagina (vulvovaginitis) is a very common problem in young girls. Vaginal discharge, external genital itching or irritation, pain as urine runs over the vulva, and a bad odor can be found with this syndrome. It most commonly occurs in girls who are out of diapers, but not yet showing any signs of puberty (age 3-10). Vulvovaginitis can be an ongoing struggle for girls in this age group. Causes of vulvovaginitis Any cause of irritation to the skin of the external genital area (vulva) can lead to inflammation and discomfort. In addition, once there is some skin breakdown, the bacterial count increases and bacteria can move up into the vagina, causing a discharge. The chronic wetness from the discharge further irritates the vulva, leading to a self-perpetuating cycle. In adults with these symptoms we would think of a yeast infection, but girls this age generally do not get yeast. In girls the condition is caused by irritants and bacterial overgrowth. Conditions confused with vulvovaginitis Pinworms can be confused with vulvovaginitis, but the most common symptom is itching alone, often around the anus as well as the vaginal area. With vulvovaginitis the more common symptom is irritation or stinging. In a urinary tract infection the burning is usually at the end of urination; the child may urinate frequently, often small amounts at a time. With vulvovaginitis, burning is caused by the urine running over raw skin and is more continuous. See you practitioner if you think your child may have one of these conditions. Next: Principles of Prevention and Treatment for Vulvovaginitis
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