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Bacterial vaginosis or BV can occur in children, and it’s something that needs to be dealt with immediately, for the health and well-being of your child.

While some cases of bacterial vaginosis are asymptomatic, most cause a foul, fishy-smelling discharge from the vagina. This discharge can be white or grey in color, and can be thin and watery. These infections can also cause irritation or itching.

There are several causes of BV in children. Bubble baths can be a culprit, as they disrupt the natural pH of the vaginal area. Disposable diapers that don’t allow the genital area to “breathe” can be another cause, as can trauma or poor hygiene.

If a child is potty-trained, it’s important to teach her to wipe from front to back after a bowel movement. This helps prevent the introduction of fecal bacteria into the vaginal area. Bathing should be done regularly, to promote good hygiene, and only mild soap and water should be used to cleanse the vaginal area. Dress your child in loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear, or use cloth diapers. Cotton allows the genital area to get fresh air; the vagina is self-cleaning, as long as it’s pH is not disrupted and the “good” bacteria is present, and proper airflow helps insure this.

While little girls love bubble baths, these need to be eliminated from the schedule while your child is being treated for BV, and limited afterwards. Sitting in soapy water is drying to the vaginal area, and severely disrupts the acid balance of the vagina. If your child is prone to bacterial vaginosis, you might want to dispense with bubble baths for good.

Adding yogurt to your child’s diet can help repopulate the vagina with “good” bacteria, as can adding a probiotic supplement. If, however, this doesn’t do the trick, you need to take your child to a pediatrician. There are several forms of antibiotics, either oral or applied topically, that can take care of bacterial vaginosis in children, and these might be needed.

Bacterial vaginosis can’t be left untreated. Besides causing your child discomfort, if it’s left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues, like pelvic inflammatory disease. As pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is one of the most common cause of infertility, this isn’t something you want to take chances with.

With care and treatment, bacterial vaginosis in children doesn’t have to be a serious problem.

Pia Ballog is part of the Women’s Health Team. She writes health articles for women who want to learn more about women disorders, and how to cure the naturally!

For more information and natural treatments visit her blog Bacterial Vaginosis Relief!