Diaper Rash Care

Most babies will have diaper rash at some point even though when describing soft skin, you will often hear "smooth as a baby's bottom". What many mothers soon realize, however, is that diaper rash is a frequent battle - more so with some babies than others. What is diaper rash, and just why do babies get it? Is there anything you can do to prevent it, and how to treat it are all important questions every new mother will invariably ask.

WHAT IS DIAPER RASH

There are several possibilities to this answer. Contact rash is the most common, with flat red and irritated skin. This is usually caused by simply wearing a diaper - wet cloth against a bottom is the perfect recipe. Rashes caused by the skin rubbing together are also another type of contact rash.

Yeast infections will pose as a diaper rash, but the difference is that it is a raised rash, and may have spots that look like tiny bug bites around the diaper area. These will need a different treatment with an anti-fungal.

If your baby doesn't respond to treatment, see your doctor and have them make sure it isn't a bacterial infection.

PREVENTION

The best way to prevent a diaper infection is to keep your baby's bottom dry. Don't let you infant or toddler sit in a wet or dirty diaper, because the longer the skin is exposed to the damp and acidic urine, the more likely he is to develop a rash. Moisture also invites too much yeast growth, making it likely for a yeast infection.

Certain foods can also trigger a diaper rash. Reactions to acidic food such as tomatoes can give the baby acidic stools. These will cause a "burn" on the bottom, resulting in a diaper rash. Keep your baby's diet mild to avoid strong tummy upsets and a rough changing time.

Always use unscented baby wipes. The perfumes in some wipes can cause a skin reaction. If your baby is having constant rashes, consider trying a different type of diaper. Perhaps the brand you are using isn’t compatible with your baby's skin.

TREATMENT

When your baby does get diaper rash, there are several options for treatment. The best is to keep the area clean with plain water, instead of harsh cleaners. Pat the baby's bottom instead of wiping dry. Once baby is clean, leave the diaper off for the skin to air out. Make sure to use a waterproof pad of some type to contain any accidents, and simply rinse any mess off of baby. Do this for as long as possible without cream.

Once you have to put the diaper back on, make sure to apply a cream, such as "Butt Paste" or one of the others. Make sure to have the right cream if dealing with a yeast infection. Your pediatrician may have a recommendation as well, or can call in a prescription strength prescription with persistent rashes.

Don't fret too much over diaper rash. It's just one of those parts of parenting that you will have to deal with. Do your best to keep baby comfortable, but remember this is just a mild condition that will nearly always take care of itself with a little bit of help from you.

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