How to Soothe Baby Vaginal Irritation or Itching Due to Soap

Most vaginal itching and irritation in babies is harmless and due to overuse of bubble baths and soaps. Some babies may have hypersensitive skin in the vaginal area and react even to hypoallergenic soaps and unscented baby wipes. When irritants are to blame, home treatment is usually sufficient to clear up symptoms in a few days. If your daughter's symptoms persist, she may have a bacterial infection that requires medical treatment. Consult your doctor for advice.

Stop using any items that may be irritating your daughter's vagina, such as scented wipes, bubble baths and harsh soaps.

Fill a bathtub 1/3 full with warm water and add 2 oz. baking soda to the tub. Have your child sit in the tub for 20 minutes, four times each day, to soothe her vaginal irritation and encourage healing. Continue with these baths for two to three days. If your baby is too young to sit in the tub alone, climb in with her.

Pat her genital area dry with a clean towel, and then allow her to air dry for 10 or 20 minutes.

Apply 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to affected areas once she is completely dry. Continue using the cream for up to two days, or longer if directed to do so by her pediatrician.

Clean your baby after urination and bowel movements by flushing her genital area with warm water. Rubbing the area can increase pain and irritation. Use a squirt bottle, if you have one, to make the process easier.

Check her genital area once or twice each day for signs of infection or increasing irritation. Call her pediatrician immediately if you notice bleeding, vaginal discharge, open sores or if urination becomes painful.

Tips

Allow your daughter to sleep in loose clothing while she heals, and every night if it helps prevent recurrence of her symptoms. Tight-fitting, footed pajamas are one possible cause of vaginal irritation in babies.