If you are going to understand what’s happening to your daughter’s body, you need to know what you’re working with.
Getting it right (most of the time)
Make sure she has a good relationship with your family doctor or get her a new doctor who she likes and feels comfortable with.Â
If she complains about one of her practitioners, get her a new one – trust is imperative. It doesn’t matter who’s right.Â
Listen to her problems and be kind – you don’t always have to solve things, she may just need your ear. Making an effort to understand goes a long way, though she’s probably only going to want to tell you so much – which is why her having a good relationship with her practitioners is so important.Â
When a child starts questioning their sexuality, it's crucial for parents to offer understanding and support. This article delves into what questioning means, the differences between bisexuality and sexual fluidity, and how parents can approach this sensitive topic with care, avoiding common pitfalls like dismissal or homophobia. It emphasizes the importance of love, acceptance, and open communication, ensuring parents are prepared to support their child, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Cleaning a child's vulva and vagina requires gentle care, avoiding harsh soaps and teaching them proper hygiene as they grow. Learn to use plain water and soft cloths for cleaning, and why it's crucial to avoid irritants and educate your child on their body parts for their comfort and health.
The primary difference between a child's and an adult woman's vagina lies in the levels of oestrogen, which influences the presence of lactobacilli and other beneficial bacteria. From birth, high oestrogen levels in babies lead to a rich lactobacilli presence, which decreases as they grow, until puberty reintroduces oestrogen and its protective effects on the vaginal environment.
Vulvovaginitis in children can present with symptoms like itching, soreness, and unusual discharge, stemming from various causes including infections, foreign objects, or skin conditions. Understanding the causes and symptoms is crucial for effective management and treatment, highlighting the importance of gentle hygiene practices and medical consultation for diagnosis and care.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children, often mistaken for urethral irritation, are more common than perceived. The close proximity of the urethra to the anus facilitates bacterial spread, leading to infections. Distinguishing between UTIs and irritation caused by external factors like toilet paper and soaps is crucial for effective treatment. Consulting a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment is essential, alongside using hypo-allergenic products to prevent irritation.
The article delves into the disturbing reality of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in children, predominantly acquired through sexual abuse. It highlights the necessity of comprehensive swab tests for early detection, given the absence of symptoms, and outlines the severe long-term health consequences, including infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. The piece also presents data from studies revealing the commonality of STIs such as herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea among victimised children, stressing the critical need for awareness and preventive measures.
The anatomy of a pre-pubescent girl's vulva and vagina differs significantly from that of an adult woman, necessitating different care and language. This article delves into the basic parts of the vulva and vagina, highlighting the importance of understanding and correctly naming each part to ensure proper care and communication. It explains the distinctions in appearance, the role of the hymen, and the dormant state of internal reproductive organs and bacterial colonies in pre-pubescent girls.
When your child suffers from a minor urinary tract infection (UTI), immediate and effective home care is crucial. This article covers symptoms, reasons behind UTIs in children, and home remedies including cranberry and D-mannose treatments. It emphasizes the importance of professional medical care and provides guidance on managing symptoms at home while awaiting professional consultation.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an adrenal gland disorder impacting cortisol synthesis due to an enzyme defect, leading to varied developmental effects. This condition, caused by a genetic mutation, can result in excessive or deficient sex hormone production, affecting sexual development and fertility. Treatment focuses on symptom management and hormone regulation, aiming for a balanced and healthy life despite the genetic challenge.
MRKH syndrome, or Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome, is a congenital condition characterised by the absence or underdevelopment of the upper portion of the vagina, cervix, and/or uterus. This article delves into the types, symptoms, diagnosis, and management of MRKH syndrome, offering insights into surgical and non-surgical treatments, fertility options, and the importance of psychological support for those affected.
A ureterocele is an anatomical abnormality causing swelling at the end of a ureter, potentially blocking urine flow. This condition can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloody urine, and frequent urination, and is often diagnosed through ultrasounds or tests like cystoscopy. Treatment typically involves antibiotics or surgery to remove the blockage, with outcomes varying based on individual damage.
Precocious puberty is the early onset of puberty signs in children, marked by breast and pubic hair development before the ages of 6-8 in girls and 9 in boys. This condition can lead to rapid bone development, emotional distress, and various health implications. The article explores the causes, including genetic factors and increased BMI, signs, and treatment options for precocious puberty, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between true early puberty and pseudopuberty.
The physical effects of sexual abuse in children, especially young girls, can vary and often go unnoticed due to the rapid healing of physical damage and delayed reporting. It's crucial to monitor any changes and seek professional care immediately to support recovery and legal action.
Vulvovaginitis, a common condition in prepubertal girls, can be caused by Haemophilus influenzae, a bacteria less known than streptococcus but equally significant. This article explores the symptoms, antibiotic resistance issues, and the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment to manage this condition effectively.
Vaginal septum abnormalities, including transverse and longitudinal types, can significantly impact women's health, from painful sex to complications in pregnancy. These congenital conditions, often unnoticed until puberty or later, may require surgical intervention for relief and to improve fertility outcomes. Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial for those affected.
46,XX testicular difference of sexual development (DSD) is a condition where individuals have two X chromosomes but develop male physical characteristics. Also known as XX male syndrome, this condition affects about 1 in 20,000 live births and involves a complex interplay of genetics, including the SRY gene. Treatment often begins at puberty with testosterone to encourage male sex characteristics while preventing female developments.
Cleaning a child's vulva and vagina requires gentle care, avoiding harsh soaps and teaching them proper hygiene as they grow. Learn to use plain water and soft cloths for cleaning, and why it's crucial to avoid irritants and educate your child on their body parts for their comfort and health.
If you've experienced rape, it's vital to prioritize your safety, seek medical attention without altering any potential evidence, and consider legal action. Support networks and counseling play a crucial role in healing. Remember, it's not your fault, and help is available through various channels, including RAINN and local crisis centers. This guide outlines the immediate steps to take following an assault to ensure your well-being and facilitate the path towards recovery and justice.
The article delves into the disturbing reality of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in children, predominantly acquired through sexual abuse. It highlights the necessity of comprehensive swab tests for early detection, given the absence of symptoms, and outlines the severe long-term health consequences, including infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. The piece also presents data from studies revealing the commonality of STIs such as herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea among victimised children, stressing the critical need for awareness and preventive measures.
Anatomy
Know your anatomy
Understanding how your child’s vulva and vagina are different to an adult woman’s is important, since it’s possible that your only experience with vaginas is in a sexual context with an adult. This is helpful, but only up to a point. Men in relationships with other men with very little experience in looking at or touching vulvas and vaginas may need a few more lessons.
This relationship to sexual contexts, and a lack of knowledge about any female’s body, can make men shy away from making important investigations and decisions about their daughter’s body. While this is understandable, with a bit more knowledge on what’s going on inside and out, you can feel confident in making executive care decisions. Knowing the anatomy of a child’s vulva and vagina is your first step.
Part of knowing the anatomy of a girl is calling things by their real names.
Call me by my name
You may be calling your daughter’s vagina or vulva by a name other than it’s real name, and now is the time to stop that cold turkey, and start naming body parts accurately. This is about much more than your possible embarrassment, and becomes a safety mechanism that you arm your daughter with.
Naming body parts accurately is important for a few reasons:
If something goes wrong, your daughter can name at least the area that is sore accurately to you or to a doctor
You and your daughter should feel comfortable referring to body parts by their real names, just like you would an arm or a foot
Using proper names stops kids feeling the shame of their parents around their bodies – don’t give your girl a hangup – she’s already got a pretty hard run ahead of her
If someone touches her inappropriately, your daughter can confidently speak up – ‘down there’ is pretty vague and can cause either unnecessary alarm or a lack of alarm when it is required
Teach her the body parts of boys too
Be prepared for your daughter to humiliate you inadvertently! Don’t tell her off for things that aren’t actually bad and use it as a teaching moment and laugh
To know what her body parts are called, you’ll need to check out the diagrams. You will need to be the judge of how much she needs to know based on her age and comprehension.
The most important names relate generally to the vagina and vulva – the inside is the vagina and the outside is the vulva. There is actually not one single name in English for the whole vulvovaginal area. Most people just call it the vagina, and mean the whole area, which is fine up to a certain point.
As she gets older and other things possibly go wrong, you can teach her other names for other areas, like vulva, labia, anus, clitoris, and perineum. You can do this teaching on a need-to-know basis as your child grows, but don’t shy away from it if it doesn’t come up. Take your educational moments where you can, so that if later something comes up, your daughter has her words. This means she’ll also have her words if something happens to her and you aren’t around to translate.
The vagina and vulva are integral parts of female anatomy, each with unique structures and functions. From sexual pleasure to childbirth, this guide demystifies their roles and explains the difference between the two, complete with engaging diagrams to enhance understanding. Discover the complexities of these body parts, their contribution to sexual health, and the importance of knowing the correct terminology.
This comprehensive guide to female anatomy is designed to educate both learners and parents. It covers key anatomical areas such as the labia, clitoris, vagina, and more, providing the latest in anatomy news and insights. Whether you're starting your anatomical journey or looking to deepen your understanding, this guide offers valuable information on the complexities of female anatomy.
From birth through to old age, the female body experiences significant transformations, particularly in the vulva and vagina. This article delves into the developmental stages, from the effects of hormones in the womb, through puberty, pregnancy, and into menopause, highlighting the natural changes and challenges faced at each stage. Understanding these changes is crucial for health, sexual well-being, and embracing the body's evolution over a lifetime.
Paediatric gynaecology offers a unique insight into the gynaecological health and development of children and babies, from neonatal stages through to adolescence. This article delves into the normal physiological changes, hormonal milestones, and the appropriate approach to examinations, providing a comprehensive overview of female sexual development during the early stages of life.
Vulvovaginitis and infections
A child’s vagina has very little bacteria (good or bad) in it, because it is the influence of oestrogen that encourages friendly bacteria to grow. Oestrogen, which only starts at puberty, causes the vaginal cells to produce glycogen (a sugar) that lactobacilli feed on. Without the oestrogen or glycogen, a prepubertal girl’s vagina is very much like her grandmother’s in many ways, sans the wrinkles and greys.
This can mean her putting the wrong things in or close to her vagina (think wiping from back to front, dirty toys or toilet paper, you name it) can cause infections, as there isn’t a lot to defend the vagina from invaders. Vulvovaginitis remains a common affliction of young girls, but usually identifying the cause and removing it/treating it solves the problem quickly.
Low to no oestrogen also makes her vulva and vagina look and behave in a unique way that will change once she hits puberty. This is important, because your relationship will change at this point, and you need to know the signs that she is having hormonal shifts and puberty is impending.
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), primarily known for causing infectious mononucleosis, can also impact the vagina and urinary tract, leading to symptoms such as vulvar ulcers, vaginal discharge, and urinary pain. This article delves into the manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment options for EBV-related genitourinary symptoms, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of the virus.
Shigella spp. is a bacterium causing vaginal infections and vulvovaginitis, mainly in children, presenting symptoms similar to gonorrhoea. It is highly resistant to common antibiotics, making careful diagnosis and treatment essential. The condition can be accompanied by discharge, diarrhoea, and is often confused with other infections due to its symptoms.
Vulvar and vaginal issues in girls, ranging from urinary tract infections to yeast infections, present a variety of symptoms like discharge, itching, and pain. This article offers a guide to identifying these symptoms and understanding potential causes, from poor hygiene practices to more serious conditions like lichenoid conditions or labial adhesions, aiming to aid parents in navigating these sensitive health issues and when to seek professional advice.
Vulvovaginitis in children can present with symptoms like itching, soreness, and unusual discharge, stemming from various causes including infections, foreign objects, or skin conditions. Understanding the causes and symptoms is crucial for effective management and treatment, highlighting the importance of gentle hygiene practices and medical consultation for diagnosis and care.
Vaginal pinworms, a misadventure of Enterobius vermicularis from the digestive tract to the vagina, present unique symptoms and require careful treatment. This article delves into the signs of infection, traditional and home remedies, and essential preventive practices to manage and eradicate these parasites effectively.
Vulvar ulcers, not caused by sexually transmitted infections, can afflict young women and adolescents, often linked to viruses like Epstein-Barr and cytomegalovirus. These ulcers, known as Lipschutz ulcers or vulvar aphthae, present with symptoms such as pain, swollen lymph nodes, and flu-like signs. A study highlights the prevalence and characteristics of these ulcers, underscoring the need for sensitive handling when treating young patients.
Vaginal yeast infections in young girls are rare but can occur, particularly post-antibiotic use or illness. As children approach puberty, the risk increases. Treatment focuses on identifying the cause, using probiotics or probiotic foods to support the immune system, and, if necessary, consulting with a herbalist for child-friendly remedies.
Congenital syphilis is a serious infection passed from mother to foetus, with a transmission risk of 60-80%. It manifests in two forms: early and late congenital syphilis, each with distinct symptoms ranging from skin lesions to intellectual disabilities in early stages, and bone lesions to dental deformities in later stages. Penicillin stands out as a pivotal solution for this condition.
Puberty
Understanding the onset of puberty
Puberty happens over a couple of years, with the first signs puffy, sore nipples and pubic hair. She’ll start to smell different and need a bit of coaching on personal hygiene, and of course some deodorant (and instructions on how to use it).
The pubic hair will start as a fine fluff, and there won’t be much. Usually she’ll have some extra fat on her body, since a girl needs at least 17 per cent body fat for enough oestrogen to be made to trigger ovulation and the menstrual cycle.
It’s important to be very considerate of her changing body and privacy needs. This will signal a change in your relationship where she goes from being an open kid to a more secretive, shy pre-teen. It’s important to have set the scene with her before this happens to ensure that she feels like she can talk to you about things that might concern her.
It’s also useful to have set her up with a female adult, if her mother is not around, so that she has someone to ask tricky questions that she doesn’t want to ask you. If you have educated yourself, however, and show yourself to be knowledgeable, you may just find that she feels comfortable to ask you some things. This is a great spot to be, but most men miss this opportunity.
Research reveals intriguing insights into how living conditions and family composition affect the age at which girls get their first period. From the presence of siblings to the percentage of body fat, various factors contribute to this significant milestone in a woman's life. This article delves into the evolutionary strategies behind menstruation timing, the impact of inbreeding, and unexpected findings from a comprehensive study.
This hands-on guide demystifies the anatomy and functions of the vulva, offering detailed steps for self-examination and understanding. From the protective labia to the sensitive clitoris, learn how each part plays a crucial role in sexual sensation, protection, and more. With practical advice on getting familiar with your own body, this article empowers women to embrace their anatomy, recognize normal variations, and identify when to seek medical advice.
Periods
Understanding her period
You may have spent your whole life avoiding talking to women about their periods, and know zilch. Before your daughter gets her period, give yourself a crash course in periods and the menstrual cycle so you don’t miss important clues.
The important part of periods that you need to keep an eye on are:
Watch that she gets her period within the allotted time frame (i.e. after age 10 and before age 15 give or take), and if it doesn’t come, take her to the doctor.
Make sure her periods are reasonably regular and fit into the not too close together and not too far apart category (between 21 and 35 days apart, any number between is fine each time).
Teach her how to track her periods using a period tracker app or calendar. The day to record is the day bleeding starts, as that is Day 1 of the menstrual cycle.Â
Give her the information she needs to figure out when she ovulates, and how she can learn to feel it (this helps later when unwanted pregnancies are on the cards – knowledge is power!).
Ensure her period pain is managed adequately – teach her how to use self-care to alleviate period pain at home, with or without medication, so that she can treat herself anywhere anytime, and also buy her own drugs. Period pain, especially early on, can be debilitating.Â
Take her to the doctor if her period pain is severe or even just really bad – she may have something more going on than just her period.
She has choices regarding what she would like to use as her menstrual hygiene products (pads, tampons, menstrual cup, period undies) but may need someone to teach her how to use them (can be the internet). Make sure she has options.Â
Making sure she doesn’t feel embarrassed asking you to buy supplies or give her money to buy her own (and make sure she does). Check if her school has free supplies available.Â
Arrange for her to buy new underwear more regularly – periods come unexpectedly and they really do ruin underwear – black or red cotton underwear is a good choice to minimise shopping.
Teach her how to use stain remover and wash her own clothes.
Understanding the optimal days for hormone and blood testing can significantly impact the accuracy of your results. Whether you're experiencing symptoms influenced by hormonal imbalances or simply wish to check your health status, knowing the correct day of your menstrual cycle or adjusting for menopausal status is crucial. This article guides you through choosing the right day for testing, interpreting results with a practitioner, and navigating private testing options.
Irregular periods, or oligomenorrhoea, can be a sign of underlying health issues or natural life changes. This article explores the causes, from hormonal imbalances like PCOS and thyroid issues to lifestyle factors, and outlines both medical and holistic treatment options. Understanding the reasons behind irregular menstrual cycles is the first step towards effective management and treatment, aiming to restore balance and health.
Period pain is a common experience, but severe period pain is not normal and may indicate underlying health issues. This article explores the difference between normal and severe period pain, natural treatments for managing discomfort, and the importance of seeking medical advice for persistent or severe pain. It also touches on conditions like endometriosis and the role of diet and lifestyle changes in managing menstrual pain.
The metallic smell of period blood, often compared to the scent of coins, is not directly caused by iron but by the interaction of iron with skin oils or blood itself. This article explores the complex chemical reactions that lead to the creation of odorous carbonyl hydrocarbons, challenging common misconceptions and shedding light on how our bodies and blood interact with metals. It also delves into how these smells affect us psychologically, revealing intriguing gender differences in our responses to the scent of blood.
Understanding your menstrual cycle is crucial for managing it effectively. This article covers essential aspects of periods, including how to track them, deal with period pain, choose sanitary products, and recognize signs of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It also touches on the importance of knowing your body, including changes to your vagina and vulva, and offers guidance on using tampons, menstrual cups, pads, and period undies.
The colour and consistency of your period blood can offer clues about your overall health. From bright red indicating a healthy period to dark, thick, or brown blood suggesting slower flow, and even pale, watery blood hinting at hormonal imbalances, this article delves into what various period blood characteristics might mean for your health. It also touches on conditions like heavy periods and mid-cycle bleeding, advising when to consult a healthcare practitioner.
Research reveals intriguing insights into how living conditions and family composition affect the age at which girls get their first period. From the presence of siblings to the percentage of body fat, various factors contribute to this significant milestone in a woman's life. This article delves into the evolutionary strategies behind menstruation timing, the impact of inbreeding, and unexpected findings from a comprehensive study.
Understanding the difference between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While PMS symptoms are often physical, PMDD primarily affects mood and can significantly impact daily life. This article dives into the symptoms, diagnosis criteria, and treatment options for both conditions, helping you identify if you might have PMDD and what steps to take next.
Oestriol (E3), the weakest yet significant oestrogen, plays crucial roles during pregnancy and offers therapeutic benefits, including alleviating atrophic vaginitis and potentially managing multiple sclerosis symptoms. Despite its limited research, E3's unique properties make it a valuable component in hormone therapy, especially in Europe where it's widely approved and used. This article delves into E3's production, benefits, and the ongoing debate surrounding its safety in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on the various synthetic hormones found in contraceptive pills and rings, aimed at assisting individuals in making well-informed choices regarding their contraceptive methods. The detailed table included offers a clear comparison of the hormonal components in different contraceptive options, facilitating a better understanding of each method's potential impact on the body.
A dry vagina can be a source of discomfort and interfere with sexual activity. This article explores various solutions, including the use of lubricants during sex, daily vaginal moisturisers, and hormonal treatments like vaginal oestrogen creams and hyaluronic acid serum, to help maintain vaginal health and comfort. It provides practical advice on choosing the right products to avoid irritation and enhance your sexual experience.
The relationship between your gut bacteria and oestrogen is crucial for hormonal balance, affecting everything from vaginal health to bone density. This article explores how gut bacteria regulate oestrogen metabolism through the oestrobolome process, impacting your overall health and potentially influencing cancer risk.
Polycystic ovaries are characterized by the presence of multiple cyst-like follicles on the ovaries, often associated with PCOS, affecting fertility and hormonal balance. While having some follicles is normal, more than 12 per ovary indicates a condition that can lead to symptoms like acne, irregular periods, and insulin resistance. Understanding this condition is crucial for women experiencing related symptoms.
Acne is fundamentally a hormonal issue, influenced by factors such as diet, skincare habits, and stress. Understanding the three-step process of acne formation—blocked pores, infection, and inflammation—can guide effective management strategies, including dietary changes and natural treatments to balance hormones and combat acne.
The menstrual cycle is a series of predictable hormonal fluctuations beyond just reproduction. This guide simplifies the cycle from hormones like oestrogen and progesterone to key events like menstruation and ovulation, offering insights into the changes your body goes through from puberty to menopause. Understand the signs of ovulation and the impact of your cycle on mood, physical health, and sexual well-being.
Dietary choices significantly influence oestrogen levels, impacting risks for conditions like endometriosis. High intake of saturated fats and low fibre are linked to increased oestrogen, while diets rich in green vegetables, fresh fruits, and low in animal fats can help maintain healthier levels. This article delves into how foods affect oestrogen metabolism and offers practical advice for dietary adjustments to manage oestrogen levels effectively.
