Everything you need to know about diaper rash
Does your baby have red, sensitive skin patches in the diaper area and cry during diaper changes? It could be diaper rash! Learn more about this condition and how to treat and prevent it with a few simple steps.
What is diaper rash?
As About Kids Health explains, diaper rash is a benign but painful skin inflammation that appears during the first 15 months of a baby's life, generally between the 9th and 12th month. It lasts 2 to 4 days, sometimes longer, and although it is not contagious per se, a fungal infection (candidiasis) can be if there is direct contact. Fortunately, it generally has no serious consequences.
What causes diaper rash?
The Caring for Kids platform, developed by the Canadian Pediatric Society, identifies several factors that can cause diaper rash:
-Prolonged contact with a soiled diaper
-Irritation caused by the detergent used to wash cloth diapers
-Inadequate rinsing of cloth diapers
-Irritation due to eating new foods
-Chemicals found in disposable diapers
-Diarrhea
-Fungus (candidiasis) or bacteria (impetigo) after taking antibiotics; this infection can spread to the folds of the neck, groin, between the buttocks, and between the toes.
Psst! It's a myth: Teething doesn't cause diaper rash, fever, or diarrhea.
What are the symptoms of diaper rash?
Diaper rash can be identified by these symptoms:
-Red buttocks that are hot to the touch
-Red patches, sometimes bordered by small red dots, on the buttocks, thighs, and genitals
-Irritability and crying during diaper changes, especially when cleaning or touching the skin under the diaper
How to treat diaper rash
The "From Tiny Tot to Toddler” guide recommends a few easy steps to take to treat diaper rash:
-Change the diaper as soon as it is soiled
-When changing a diaper, wash the diaper area with a mild cleanser and then pat the skin dry without rubbing with a clean towel
-Avoid disposable wipes containing alcohol or perfume
-Apply an unscented diaper cream before putting on a clean diaper
-Do not use talc powder
-Choose highly absorbent diapers to keep your baby's bottom dry (disposable diapers or cloth diapers made of bamboo, hemp, or microfiber)
-Leave your baby's bottom exposed to the air as often as possible so the skin can breathe
When should you seek medical help for diaper rash?
Diaper rash usually heals on its own within a few days, without the need for medication. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor if:
-Diaper rash symptoms persist for more than 4 days
-Baby has a fever, blisters or red, hard, and pus-filled bumps (boils)
-The rash appears elsewhere than the diaper area
Can diaper rash be prevented?
Preventing diaper rash is possible! Here are some good habits to adopt to ensure baby's bottom stays healthy.
-Change baby's diaper often, especially if baby has diarrhea.
-Avoid tight-fitting diapers and plastic underwear that trap moisture.
-Choose cloth diapers made of bamboo, hemp, or microfiber, as they are more absorbent than cotton.
-Try different brands of disposable diapers, as some are less irritating than others. Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic diapers.
-Wash your hands and your child's hands after each diaper change to prevent infections.
-Use an oleocalcareous liniment at each diaper change to clean, moisturize, and protect baby's bottom.
-Always make sure to dry your baby's bottom thoroughly during diaper changes to prevent moisture from getting trapped in the diaper.
-If your baby has a sensitive bottom, apply an unscented moisturizing balm at each diaper change (ours is easy to carry in your diaper bag when travelling!).
-If you use cloth diapers, use a fragrance-free detergent
Diaper rash is a common condition, but it can be easily cured and prevented by adjusting our habits, especially when washing and changing diapers. This way, you'll avoid unpleasant surprises, and baby will smile again!
