Preventing Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is a common, albeit uncomfortable skin problem among babies. Diaper rash is characterized by patches of bright red, tender-looking skin on your baby’s bottom, thighs and genital area. Diaper rash can be really uncomfortable, making your baby more irritable especially during diaper changes. She may cry or make a fuss when a part of her diaper area is touched or washed.

Causes of Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is generally caused by frequent wetness and or infrequent diaper changes. It may also be caused by prolonged exposure to poop and/or urine. Other causes of diaper rash include:

• Feeding your baby new foods – when a baby starts eating solid foods, the content of his food changes, thus increasing his chances of developing diaper rash, as well as the frequency of pooping. If you are breastfeeding, your baby’s diaper rash may be a reaction to a food that you ate.

• New products – your baby’s diaper rash may be caused by a new product that irritates your baby’s sensitive skin. Some of these products include disposable wipes, a different brand of disposable diapers, a new detergent, bleach, fabric softener, and other laundry products. Other ingredients that are found in powders and baby lotions can also trigger a reaction.

• Tight-fitting diapers – tight fitting diapers can chafe and rub against your baby’s skin and cause a rash.

• Uses of antibiotics –antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria. Without the right balance, yeast infections can occur. Your baby is at risk if he is taking antibiotics of if you are breastfeeding and taking antibiotics.

How You Can Prevent Diaper Rash

Sure there are a number of medications and home remedies that you can use to treat diaper rash. But it is still better to prevent it and save you and your baby the trouble of having to deal with it.

Change diapers promptly – remove diapers as soon as their get soiled. If your take your child to daycare, ask the staff to do so too.

Rinse with water – rinse your baby’s bottom with water each time you change his diaper. You can wash him on the sink, in a tub or even from a water bottle. You can also use washcloths and cotton balls to help clean your baby’s diaper area thoroughly. Avoid using wipes with fragrance or alcohol.

Pat dry – do not scrub your baby’s bottom when drying. Instead, pat his bottom gently to avoid further irritation.

Let your baby’s bottom breathe – allow your baby to go without a diaper for periods of time. Letting his skin be exposed to the air is a gentle and natural way to let it dry.

Wash your baby’s diapers carefully – rashes may be caused by laundry products so wash your baby’s cloth diapers carefully. Pre-soak heavily soiled diapers and wash them using hot water. Use only mild, baby-safe detergents and forgo fabric conditioners and dryer sheets as these contain fragrances and other harsh chemicals that can trigger a reaction. Double rinse diapers if your baby is prone to developing diaper rash.

Avoid over-tightening diapers – too-tight diapers prevent airflow into the diaper area, creating a damp environment that makes skin susceptible to rashes. Over-tight diapers also rub against your baby’s waist and thighs which irritate his skin.

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