An itching and burning sensation around the vulva may be the result of an infection caused by fungi, bacteria or trichomonas. The actual site of the infection may be in the inner walls of the vagina, but the secretions caused by the infected cells often produce irritation and itching in the vulva. Scratching the area further bruises the delicate skin cells of the region and increases the pain and discomfort and leads to the appearance of skin rashes. The problem is exacerbated by dryness of the skin, which is mostly the consequence of wearing too tight undergarments made of synthetic fibers. It is advisable that you consult a doctor to determine the exact cause of the problem, and follow the treatment prescribed by him or her.
In most cases, however, the chief cause for this condition is the neglect of a few basic rules of personal hygiene. Make sure that your daughter washes herself starting from the vulva down to the anus every time she visits the bathroom. This cleanses away minute traces of urine and feces, and thereby minimizes the chances of local infections. It is also useful to wash the vaginal area with a diluted antibacterial soap solution and lukewarm water twice a day, and then pat the area completely dry using a soft piece of disposable tissue paper. Topical application of anti fungal ointment or cream may also help reduce the itching. It is also necessary that you make your daughter wear comfortably loose underwear made only of natural fibers so that the friction between the inflamed skin of the vulva and the fabric is minimized. A very popular remedy for treating vaginal infections is to replace sugar with yogurt. While sugar promotes the growth of yeasts in the vaginal area, the lactic acid present in yogurt helps destroy these infection causing microbes. Feeding the child a small bowl of unsweetened, homemade yogurt is recommended. You may also try massaging the vaginal area with a little yogurt 10 minutes before bathing the child to treat the infection more effectively. Soaking the area in a solution of salt and water is also known to be of help in solving this problem, as it acts as a natural disinfectant, and destroys germs that might be breeding in the region. A very effective herbal remedy is to blanch a few leaves of Indian lilac in some hot coconut oil, allow the decoction to cool and then gently smear this solution on the vulva.
answered by G M