Paediatrics: Labial adhesions in infants

Labial adhesions in infants

Labial adhesions are common in female toddlers. Nappy rash and expo-sure to urine cause a chronic irritation of the fragile labia which adhere. There is invariably a small opening anteriorly through which urine escapes. Labial adhesions cause no symptoms, but they are a major source of anxi-ety to parents. Treatment is best deferred until the child is out of nappies. Topical application of oestrogenic cream for 2wks will result in separation of most adhesions but occasionally gentle separation under anaesthetic may be necessary.