What to do if a baby girl's genitals are red and swollen

For baby girls, their sexual organs are mainly divided into two parts, one is the external sexual organs, and the other is the internal sexual organs. The physiological structure is completely different from that of baby boys. In particular, the urethra of baby girls is shorter, which makes them more susceptible to invasion by some external pathogens. When the baby's genitals become red and swollen, they must be cleaned in time to prevent some gynecological diseases.

Private cleaning steps

Step 1: After defecation, use a wet towel to wipe off the dirt from front to back. You can also use a sprayer filled with warm water to rinse from front to back first, so that the dirt can be easily washed off, and it will be more convenient to wipe it with a wet towel afterwards.

Step 2: Use a wet towel to slowly wipe away the dirt around the labia minora. Wipe clean even after urinating. You can fold the towel into a long thin strip and then slide it in the groove of the labia minora to wipe it. You can also use a cotton swab bought in the supermarket, dip it in water and wipe it gently.

Step 3: Dirt is also easily stuck in the gap between the thighs. The mother can use one hand to open the gap, and then gently wipe it with the other hand. Wait until the baby's bottom is completely dry before putting on the diaper.

Nursing precautions

(1) Wear underwear early: The underwear you choose should be absorbent, breathable, made of cotton, loose and comfortable. Mothers, please put full-crotch pants on your baby girls as early as possible to minimize the direct contact between dirty bacteria from outside and the genitals.

(2) Change diapers promptly: A clean, fresh, and breathable environment is the most ideal environment for the vagina. The baby girl has not yet left diapers, so whether using diapers or disposable diapers, you should choose those that are breathable, safe and hygienic. Mothers must remember to change diapers in time after defecation. The opening of the urethra is directly connected to the internal organs. The residual components of urine will irritate the baby's skin, making it prone to diaper rash. If the interference is serious, it will cause allergies and inflammation. If you encounter red buttocks, you can apply a mild baby diaper cream.

Common symptoms of female baby's vulva

(1) Vulvar vaginitis: This disease is caused by the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli when stool or other substances come into contact with the skin of the vulva or the mucous membrane of the vagina, leading to inflammation. The symptoms are redness, swelling and pain in the external genitalia. At this time, the child often has some abnormal behavior, such as itching in the vulva, crying when urinating, etc. As the inflammation worsens, the child's vulva will also discharge yellow pus and emit a foul odor.

Treatment: If the vulva is just a little red and swollen, wash it when changing her diaper or bathing her, and it will usually heal on its own. If secretion occurs or you feel very uncomfortable, you need to use some ointment or oral medication containing antibiotics under the guidance of a doctor.

(2) Cutaneous candidiasis: Candida is a type of fungus. Cutaneous candidiasis is an infection with Candida species that spreads into the cracks or crevices of the skin, causing inflammation of the skin. After being infected with Candida albicans, the skin will turn red, develop many small bumps, peel, and even become red, swollen, and rotten with small blisters or pustules. If you mistake it for diaper rash and apply steroids, the symptoms will become worse. So don't give your baby any medicine at will, but ask the doctor to confirm it first.

Treatment: If it is just redness without swelling, just keep the reddened skin clean and it will heal naturally. However, if the redness and swelling are severe, you should apply antifungal ointment under the guidance of a doctor. It usually takes 1-2 weeks to heal.