What is the Vulva?
The Vulva is the external section of the lady bits. This area is sensitive and has a blood supply.
Each Vulva is different and never the same shape or size. This part of the skin can experience some symptoms, some worse than others. Symptoms can be caused by dermatitis, infections, and sensitivity [1].
* Get your daughter to check out the extra resources below
​
How your daughter can Examine herself
Give your daughter the below instructions
- wash her hands
- lie or sit in a comfortable position in front of a mirror
- gently part all sections looking for redness, lumps or bumps, colour changes or anything that she is concerned about.
​
If she notices any changes please seek medical attention
What makes the Vulva [2]
-
The area covered with pubic hair
-
Outer lips are known as the Labia Majora, and the inner lips are known as the Labia minora
-
Clitoris
-
The area around the opening of the Vagina and Urethra (Pee hole).
-
The area between the bum and vagina.
How to care for down there [2] [1]
-
Clean only with water and gently, if your daughter wants to use anything try and avoid soaps/detergents and scented products go for QV, Sorbolene, etc.
-
After exercising or swimming be sure to shower to remove sweat and chlorine. If you cannot shower after these activities, even changing the undies and pants after can help.
-
If irritated or red, seek medical advice, but in the meantime to soothe the area in a bath add 1 cup of bicarbonate of soda or a handful of salt.
-
Try talking to your daughter about wearing 100% white cotton underwear. Avoid fabric softener when washing underwear and try to limit tight clothing.
-
Try to get unbleached pads or reusable cotton ones.
References
[1] WNHS Vulva Care Patient Information. By Natarsha (Nurse), Dr McElhinney, and Dr Clare.
[2] https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/about-the-vulva-and-vagina
​
Bibliography
-
Normal Vulval & Vaginal Anatomy - What's Normal | caredownthere
-
Chen, Y., Bruning, E., Rubino, J., & Eder, S. E. (2017). Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: Global hygiene practices and product usage. Women's Health, 13(3), 58-67. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745505717731011
​
Extra Resources
Vulva Conditions
Coming Soon
Coming Soon
Coming Soon