Vaginal swelling in children can be alarming for parents, especially when accompanied by redness, pain or discharge. In many cases, the condition is due to vaginitis, a common and usually mild inflammation of the vaginal and vulvar area. However, some symptoms may indicate infection or require medical care. Understanding the causes of vaginal swelling, its signs, and when to seek help can make a big difference in your child’s comfort and recovery.

what is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is the medical term used to describe inflammation or irritation of the vagina and surrounding area. It’s especially common in prepubescent girls because their vaginal skin is thinner and more sensitive to irritants. While vaginitis in children is rarely serious, it can cause discomfort and distress if not properly addressed.

There are several types of vaginal infection that can result in vaginitis, including bacterial, yeast and parasitic infections. In some cases, irritants such as harsh soaps or tight clothing may trigger the inflammation without the presence of infection.

signs and symptoms of vaginitis in children

Parents should be aware of the signs and symptoms of vaginitis so they can respond appropriately. These symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly, and they often include:

• Itching or burning in the vaginal area
• Redness or visible irritation
• Swollen vagina or vulva
• Discomfort or painful vaginal swelling
• Vaginal discharge, which may be white, yellow or even contain blood
• Burning sensation during urination
• Foul or unusual vaginal odor

These symptoms can be upsetting for a child and may also make it difficult for them to describe what they are feeling. It’s important to approach the situation calmly and with reassurance.

causes of vaginal swelling and vaginitis

There are several potential causes of vaginal swelling and vaginitis in children. In many cases, poor hygiene or exposure to irritants is the culprit. Some common vaginitis causes include:

• Irritants: Soaps, bubble baths, laundry detergents, fabric softeners or chlorine from swimming pools can cause irritation.
• Tight clothing: Clothing that doesn’t allow the skin to breathe or causes friction can lead to swelling and redness.
• Poor wiping habits: Inadequate wiping after using the toilet, especially wiping from back to front, can spread bacteria and irritate the vaginal area.
• Wet diapers or swimsuits: Prolonged exposure to moisture increases the risk of irritation and infection.
• Foreign objects: Occasionally, young children may insert objects into the vagina, which can lead to inflammation or infection.
• Infections: Some types of vaginal infection—like pinworm infestations, yeast infections, group A strep or even sexually transmitted infections—can also cause vaginitis.

vaginitis treatments and symptom relief

The approach to vaginitis treatments depends on the cause. For mild, non-infectious vaginitis, home care and hygiene improvements are often enough.

at-home treatment:

• Sitz baths: A warm sitz bath can soothe the irritated area. Have your child sit in plain warm water for 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure she spreads her legs so the water reaches the vaginal area. Do not add soap, bubble bath or oils.
• Drying properly: After bathing, gently pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel.
• Avoid irritants: Switch to fragrance-free soaps and laundry products. Avoid tight-fitting underwear or pants that can trap moisture and heat.
• Cotton underwear: Encourage the use of loose, breathable cotton underwear to keep the area dry and reduce irritation.

medical treatment:

If your child’s symptoms suggest an infection or do not resolve with basic care, a visit to the pediatrician is recommended. Depending on the underlying cause, your provider may prescribe:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antifungal medication for yeast infections
• Antiparasitic treatments if pinworms or another parasite is identified

Recurrent vaginal pain or infections may require further testing or referral to a pediatric urologist to rule out other medical conditions.

what’s the difference between vaginitis and a vaginal infection?

Vaginitis refers to inflammation of the vagina and vulva, which can be caused by irritation, poor hygiene or an infection. A vaginal infection is one specific cause of vaginitis and includes bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections.

can a swollen vagina in children go away on its own?

Yes, mild vaginal swelling caused by irritants or poor hygiene may go away with proper care, such as sitz baths and avoiding harsh products. However, persistent symptoms may require medical evaluation to rule out infection.

how can I prevent vaginitis in my child?

Good hygiene practices are the best way to prevent vaginitis. Teach your child to wipe front to back, avoid bubble baths, wear cotton underwear and change out of wet clothes quickly. Using fragrance-free soaps and detergents can also help reduce irritation.

when to seek medical attention for vaginal swelling

While many cases of vaginitis resolve with hygiene measures, there are situations that warrant medical evaluation. You should contact your child’s pediatrician  if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen: If vaginal swelling, itching or discomfort continues beyond a few days, or gets worse despite sitz baths and avoiding irritants.
• Unusual discharge or bleeding: Discharge that is green, gray or foul-smelling, or any blood without obvious cause, could indicate a more serious infection.
• Recurrent episodes: If your child experiences vaginitis multiple times in a year, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs medical evaluation.
• Fever or abdominal pain: These symptoms, when paired with vaginal irritation, could indicate a more serious infection or pelvic issue and should be addressed promptly.

You may be referred to a pediatric urologist. At Dayton Children’s, our urologists are here to support your child’s health with specialized care for intimate health issues. Schedule an appointment online or call 937-641-4000.