Ask the Expert
To help prevent an infection, have your child change out of a wet swimsuit immediately after swimming
medium for yeast to over-multiply and for a child to develop an infection. To prevent this, have your daughter change out of a wet suit into dry, loose-fitting cotton underwear immediately after swimming. On a daily basis, encourage her to wear moisture-wicking underwear. Avoid fabrics that are synthetic, which tend to hold moisture close to the skin. Also, understand that there is no need to clean the vagina with anything other than water and mild soap. In fact, using harsh soaps, douches, sprays or cleansers marketed as feminine hygiene products can disrupt the fragile balance of microorganisms that thrive within the vagina and lead to the development of a yeast infection. If you are concerned that your daughter
may have a yeast infection, seek medical treatment immediately. Although yeast infections tend not to be serious, they are certainly quite uncomfortable. Never self- diagnose and never choose an over-the- counter preparation for treatment unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider. Over-the-counter remedies are formulated for adults. Children require medication that is specific to their age and to their weight.
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Sometimes a yeast infection can be diagnosed by a medical exam alone and sometimes a lab test, such as a swab of the vagina, is required. Once your child is formally diagnosed with a yeast infection there are many treatment options avail- able. Treatment options may include any combination of the following:
* Vaginal suppository (medicine placed inside the vagina).
* Oral antifungal medication.
* External cream for application directly to irritated vulvar skin.
Your provider will work with you to choose a treatment regime that is person- alized to your daughter’s needs. With bathing suit season upon us, now is the time to prepare and speak with your daughter. Fortunately, by thinking ahead and making a few simple adjustments, you can decrease the odds of a yeast infection disrupting her summer fun.
Sarah R. Kiser, CPNP-PC, is a PNP with nearly a decade of experience in pediatric nursing. She serves as the exclusive PNP at the Dana Hall School, a school-based health center in Massachusetts. Read her blog:
www.kidshealthwithsarah.com.
www.readysetgrowmag.com
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