PROBLEM IN THE NETHER LANDS —XX

Hi people, 

I have come......... with more talk on the nether region. And no, I don't mean the definition below😋.....

Today's topic since it addresses girls probably sounds like a taboo but information they say is key. 😎

I will like to make this opening statement as a "matter of fact" ---- even though it doesn't have to be one's testimony. 

"If it is a vagina, it can have issues, smell and have a discharge", IRRESPECTIVE OF AGE .... 

It is not uncommon especially in the pre-pubertal age group to find trouble in the genital area of the girl child. 

The causes of these nether region issues include but are not limited to these:

Poor Hygiene; 

this can never be overemphasized. Teaching our young ones to bath properly, clean up properly after a wee or poo, wiping from front to back to avoid poo coming in contact with the vagina and proper hand-washing, are a few hygienic ways to prevent vaginal issues.This can also cause a Urinary Tract Infection.

Foreign Body; 

most common culprit is toilet paper.

An infection with a discharge may occur if the foreign object remains in the vagina causing an infection to fester.

Chemicals; 

such as perfumes and dyes in detergents, fabric softeners, creams, ointments, and sprays may irritate the vagina or the skin around the vagina. This can result in a vaginal discharge or vaginitis (inflammation-  red and itchy vagina).

Bacterial Vaginitis; 

this is very common in girls before puberty. It results in itching, redness, and swelling of the skin of the vagina and the surrounding area (vulva). It is not sexually transmitted but occurs due to pH imbalance in the vagina resulting from poor hygiene or other non safe practices.  

Vaginal yeast infection (Candidiasis); 

a fungal infection which causes vaginal discharge and itching. 

In some cases, Vaginal itching is caused by Pin worms, they look like small pieces of thread. 

Sexually Transmitted Infection, (e.g syphilis, gonorrhea). Not commonly seen, but if a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.

A FEW TIPS TO KEEPING THE NETHER REGION:

• Avoid colored or perfumed toilet tissue and bubble baths.

• Ask your child to urinate whenever the urge is there and not hold it.

• Use only plain warm water, and plain, unscented soap to wash the vagina.

• Teach your child to keep the genital area clean and dry. Preferably a water rinse should be done, or, pat the outer vagina and vulva dry rather than rubbing it with tissue. This will help prevent small balls of tissue from breaking off. 

• Clean from front to back (vagina to anus) after urinating or having a bowel movement.

• It is better advised to wear cotton panties. 

• Wash and change underwear daily.

• For the ones menstruating, change pads/tampons at least 4 times daily.

• Avoid tight pants or shorts.

• Be "aware of the child(ren) in your care.

• Change out of wet clothing, especially wet bathing suits or exercise clothing, as soon as possible.

• Drink lots and lots of water.

• If any concerns down there,  ensure a doctor is seen immediately.

Hopefully we have learnt a few tips to help us help our young girls....💓

Remember Never to Forget that You are Beautiful just the way you are.....

I remain with love, 

The Underwear Consultant.