What are labial adhesions?

When the folds of skin outside the vagina stick together it is called labial adhesions. The folds of skin are called the labia. The labia become attached to each other with very thin pieces of tissue called adhesions. Labial adhesions usually occur before puberty and are most common in girls younger than 6 years old. They normally do not cause any symptoms or problems.

What is the cause?

Labial adhesions are usually caused by something that has irritated the vaginal area. Because the labia are so close together, when the irritated area heals, the labia sometimes become temporarily stuck together.

Possible irritants include:

• Bowel movements (BMs) (wiping from back to front instead of from front to back may cause BMs to irritate the area)

• urine pooling in the area outside the vagina

• soaps or bubble bath

• other unknown causes.
   

How are they treated?

Topical estrogen creams can be applied to the area where the folds are stuck together. Girls respond differently to this treatment. Most girls will need the treatment for several weeks (up to 8 weeks). When the labia finally separate, bathe, dry and put petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on the area. Put petroleum jelly on the area after every bath for a few months. Despite this treatment, labial adhesions return for many girls and they may need to use estrogen cream again.

How long do they last?

With treatment, the adhesions should break up after several weeks. When a girl goes into puberty, the labial adhesions break up on their own.

Are there complications of labial adhesions?

There are usually no complications of labial adhesions. In some girls, labial adhesions may contribute to urinary tract infections.

When should I call my child's health care provider?

Call during office hours if:

• The adhesions continue to stick together after 8 weeks of estrogen cream therapy.

• You are concerned about your daughter getting a urinary tract infection.

• You have other concerns or questions.