Many of the misconceptions that surround gynecological illnesses are that these health problems only happen to women who are married or have had sexual intercourse. But the truth is, even little girls like toddlers can acquire vaginitis. So, it will be good for parents to know the causes and the risk factors of this disease to be able to protect their child’s health and prevent their child from experiencing pain.
Common Causes of Vaginitis in Young Girls
1. Wearing Open-Crotch Pants
It is true that it may be pretty comfortable to change the diapers if the child is wearing open-crotch pants, but with this kind of clothing, the vaginal area is not only exposed to air, but is also exposed to different kinds of contaminants. Play that is part of any child’s development will expose him/her to dust, dirt, and bacteria that will make it easier for the child to get an infection. While toilet training, it is best to move to regular underwear as soon as it is possible and if it is a must to wear open-crotch pants, then put on diapers.
2. Curiosity About Private Parts
Generally children, question and explore their bodies which also includes genital parts of their body. Among other things, scratching and putting things into the vagina may cause bacteria to enter which may result in infection and inflammation. Parents should start the process of educating kids with healthy habits and put clear limits, and at the same time give the children age-appropriate instruction on body awareness.
3. Poor Hygiene Habits
If problems in cleaning are there, wiping is done the wrong way (from the back to the front instead of the front to the back), bathing is not done regularly, or the sharing of items like towels or basins takes place, then germs that are the agents of infections may be introduced. One very important thing to prevent the spread of infection is to teach and remind children to do the wiping carefully and to clean the private parts of their bodies.
4. Pinworm Infection
The susceptibility of children to parasitic diseases is high, and among these parasites, the most common are pinworms. The rashes that pinworm eggs near the anus cause itching, and as a result, scratching that helps move worms and bacteria to the vagina is done. The vaginitis caused by this process is a consequence of the infection. Parents should be on the lookout for indications such as continual perineal itching, and if parasites are suspected, they should take their children to see a doctor.
Prevention Tips for Parents
- The children need to be taught how to do wiping after toilet use: wiping from front to back so as not to allow the transfer of germs.
- Loose and cotton underwear should be worn by children, while tight and synthetic clothes should be kept away from kids.
- Make bathing fun and simple: pure water or mild, unscented cleansers.
- Help children to understand the importance of changing their underwear daily and to clean themselves quickly after playing.
- If children are at risk of irritation, discharge, or persistent itching, parents should look out for these signs and bring their children to the doctor if necessary.
- Offer moderate and gentle sex education that explains the importance of self-love and good hygiene habits.
Conclusion
The list of factors such as age and sexual background that limit the possibility of vaginitis to occur is not there; hence, little girls can also have this type of health problem. Parents, on the one side, can prevent vaginitis by helping their children adopt good hygiene habits and on the contrary, they should be quick in their response to symptoms. With education and attention, most of the reasons for childhood vaginitis can be prevented or, if already present, can be addressed in a way that keeps your child comfortable and in good health.
“Dr. Puneet Girdhar, currently serves as the Director of Orthopedic Spine Surgery at BLK Centre for Orthopaedics, Joint Reconstruction & Spine Surgery at BLK Super Speciality Hospital in New Delhi. With extensive experience, Best Orthopedic surgeon in Delhi, Dr. Girdhar specializes in microendodiscectomies, minimally invasive spinal decompressions and fusions, artificial disc replacements, and deformity correction in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. He expertly treats a broad range of spinal conditions, including congenital, degenerative, neoplastic, and traumatic.”
