No matter how careful you are and how much you take care of your baby, it is always likely that the baby will get skin inflammation caused by the diaper. In this article, we offer some information on the causes of diaper rash, as well as some tips on how to treat it and when to contact your pediatrician.
Diaper Rash Causes:
• The wet or soiled diaper is left on your baby's skin for a long time.
• Rubbing the skin when cleaning.
• Fungal infection.
• Bacterial infection.
• Allergy to the diaper.
Babies are more likely to get diaper rash if they:
• Are 9-12 months old.
• Sleep in soiled diapers.
• Have diarrhea.
• Eat solid food.
• Are given antibiotics or if the mother takes antibiotics during breastfeeding.
Diaper Rash Remedies:
• Wash your hands very well before and after changing your baby's diaper.
• Check the diaper often and change it immediately if it is wet.
• Use only water to clean the diaper area or use a mild baby cleanser.
• Gently dry the diaper area.
• If you use wipes or moisturizing creams, make sure they are unscented to avoid irritating your baby's skin.
• Make sure the diaper area is clean and completely dry before you put on the new diaper.
If the rash is extreme, try the following:
• Use a water sprayer to clean the diaper area rather than rubbing it with wipes or fabrics.
• Give your a baby a break from diapers for a while, airing out this area to help the skin recover faster.
Using Creams, Ointments and Powder:
Any of those can be used to calm down the sore skin, to protect it from wetness or for both reasons.
• Ointments and creams can be used on the clean and dry skin before putting the diaper on. Use creams that contain zinc oxide as they are safe and efficient for diaper rash.
• If you like to use talc powder, make sure you do it carefully so it does not land on your baby's face as it may cause breathing problems.
• If is advisable to consult your doctor before using any creams that contain cortisone because misuse could worsen the soreness.
Consider changing the diaper type, it may help reduce the rash.
When to see a doctor?
• If you notice that rash is getting worse.
• If your baby's skin does not respond to treatment for more than three days.
• If the rash is accompanied with fever.