| Keep vulva clean, dry, and well aerated |
- Avoid sleeper pajamas. Nightgowns allow air to circulate.
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- Cotton underpants. Double-rinse underwear after washing to avoid residual irritants. Do not use fabric softeners for underwear and swimsuits.
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- Avoid tights, leotards, and leggings. Skirts and loose-fitting pants allow air to circulate.
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- Avoid letting children sit in wet swimsuits for long periods of time.
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| Daily warm bathing |
- Do not use bubble baths or perfumed soaps.
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- Allow the child to soak in clean water (no soap) for 10 to 15 minutes.
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- Use soap to wash regions other than the genital area just before taking the child out of the tub. Limit use of any soap on genital areas.
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- Rinse the genital area well and gently pat dry.
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- A hair dryer on the cool setting may be helpful to assist with drying the genital region.
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- If the vulvar area is tender or swollen, cool compresses may relieve the discomfort. Emollients may help protect skin.
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| Review toilet hygiene with the child |
- Children younger than 5 should be supervised or assisted in hygiene.
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- Have children sit with knees apart to reduce reflux of urine into the vagina.
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- If they have trouble with this position because of small size, they can use a smaller detachable seat or sit backwards on the toilet seat (facing the toilet).
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- Emphasize wiping front to back after bowel movements.
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- Wet wipes can be used instead of toilet paper for wiping as long as they don't cause a "stinging" sensation.
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