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Prepubertal vaginal discharge
Author(s) -
Hayes Louise,
Creighton Sarah M
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.9.3.159.27335
Subject(s) - vaginal discharge , medicine , referral , girl , child sexual abuse , gynecology , screaming , hygiene , sexual abuse , pediatrics , general surgery , dermatology , psychology , family medicine , poison control , medical emergency , injury prevention , developmental psychology , pathology , linguistics , philosophy
Key content• Vaginal discharge is the most common reason for referral of a prepubertal girl to a gynaecologist. • Non‐specific bacterial vulvovaginitis is the most frequent cause; however, less common causes must be excluded. • Associated symptoms include soreness and itching, which can be chronic and distressing. • Vulval hygiene and the use of appropriate emollients form the cornerstone of successful management.Learning objectives• To learn how to assess a child with vaginal discharge. • To understand common and less common aetiologies. • To be able to apply sensible and appropriate management.Ethical issues• When should child sexual abuse be suspected? • When should child protection be sought?Please cite this article as: Hayes L, Creighton SM. Prepubertal vaginal discharge. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2007;9:159–163.