Labial adhesions most commonly occur from birth to two years of age when girls are still wearing diapers. Many of these cases are thought to be due to irritation caused by the ammonia in urine. However, adhesions can appear at any age before puberty. Most girls with labial adhesions do not experience any discomfort, although some may complain of symptoms suggestive of a bladder infection such as burning during urination, frequent urination or the urgent need to urinate. Treatment is not usually necessary unless there is evidence of a urinary tract infection or an inability to urinate.
Most cases resolve when puberty begins as a result of increased levels of estrogen in the body.
If treatment is warranted, vaginal estrogen creams can be very effective. If estrogen creams are unsuccessful, the adhesions can be physically separated under local anesthesia. Petroleum jelly or estrogen creams can then used to prevent recurrence of adhesions. To ask a question of our team of experts, just visit the Ask The Doc area on the InteliHealth Web page. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions.