Vulvovaginitis, or vaginitis, is an inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina.

In children, it’s most often because of irritation from a product or substance.

But infection, from bacteria or pinworms, can also cause vulvovaginitis.

small girl lying down on her stomach

Vaginitis symptoms include vaginal discharge and redness, though you may just notice your child scratching or rubbing.

Vaginitis treatment includes warm baths (sans soap), Epsom salt soaks, and cool compresses.

Was this article helpful?

Article image

We believe you should always know the source of the information you’re seeing.

Learn more about oureditorial and medical review policies.

Brander EPA et al.

Article image

Vulvovaginitis.https://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-and-advice/conditions-and-symptoms/conditions/pediatric-vulvovaginitis/Opens a new window[Accessed April 2022]

Joishy M, et al.

Do we need to treat vulvovaginitis in prepubertal girls?

Vaginal itching and discharge child.https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003159.htmOpens a new window[Accessed April 2022]

MedlinePlus.

A baby in a baby bath

Vaginitis in children.https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/vaginitis.htmlOpens a new window[Accessed April 2022]

Stricker T. 2003.

Vulvovaginitis in prepubertal girls.

Archives of Disease in Childhood 88:324-6.https://adc.bmj.com/content/88/4/324.fullOpens a new window[Accessed April 2022]

UptoDate.

BabyCenter’s picks for Best manual breast pumps

pregnant woman sitting on medicine ball

go to video page

illustration of intrauterine insemination

phone with BabyCenter app

Karen Miles