Abnormalities of the external genitalia in childhood

Abnormalities of the external genitalia during childhood are a common reason for presentation in a pediatric gynecological consultation. As girls are not simply "little women" and go through various phases in their development, the symptoms and complaints must be assessed in this context. Through a targeted medical history and appropriate examination, a diagnosis can often be made and the girl and her parents can be advised accordingly. Only in rare cases is a further referral to a specialized center required. Appropriate education and (hygiene) advice is particularly important for prepubertal vulvovaginitis. In the case of puberty-related changes of the inner labia, an empathetic explanation of the physical change and its diversity can take away the fear of not being "normal" and possibly protect the girl from hasty surgical interventions. It still takes far too long to make a diagnosis and initiate treatment, which means a long period of suffering for those affected. Therefore, this article would like to provide an overview of frequent vulvar findings in girls including their diagnostics and the necessary treatment.