Vaginal yeast infections in young girls are rare, but may accompany antibiotic use or other illness that has weakened the immune system. Thrush in babies is common.
Once puberty hits, however, the vagina is fair game for yeast infections. Your child’s doctor is likely to prescribe a drug anti-fungal or do nothing. A swab taken during symptoms will confirm if it’s yeast.
Treating yeast infections in young girls
The first task is to establish what has caused the immune system to be unable to fight the yeast off, and eliminate it. This may be antibiotic use, illness or injury.
In whatever case, yeast responds to competition, so probiotics or probiotic foods can support clearance of the yeast in a systemic way by introducing supportive bacteria that keep the yeasts in check.
Probiotics and probiotic foods are considered safe, though high doses may cause gas at first – lower the dose. These foods are usually easy to make at home, but natural (unpasturised) yoghurt is usually a good place to start. Check for brands that claim to have live bacteria in the yoghurt.
If this isn’t enough, see a qualified, experienced herbalist for some treatments suitable for children.
Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.
Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:
- International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
- International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
- National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
- New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)