Diaper Rash Prevention

Baby Notes: Between all of the diaper rashes and skin sensitivities it seems that 'tried just about every brand of wipes that are currently on the market and Jason is allergic to all of them. We've decided to stop throwing money away and i've just resorted to making my own wipes. I keep a roll of paper towels and spray bottle next to the changing station. Just spray and go! Saving every penny counts!

As a parent its understandable that you would be concerned about your baby's bottom if you suddenly noticed reddish patches. If your baby suddenly gets a diaper rash you may consider it to be a reflection of your parenting skills and may begin a whirl of self questioning. However,keep in mind that many babies will have at least one diaper rash before they are fully toilet trained. Once you notice that you baby has a rash its important that you begin treating it right away.


What Causes Diaper Rash


Diaper rash is caused by prolonged wetness of the skin to acidic urine and feces, excessive rubbing from the diaper or chemicals within the diaper itself, which causes the layers of skin to break down. Although a diaper rash is simple to treat and usually can clear up within a few days if properly treated. However, if left untreated it can progress into a more severe rash such as a yeast infection making it very uncomfortable for your baby.


How To Prevent Diaper Rash


Use an ointment that contains zinc oxide, apply it to your baby's bottom after washing and diaper changes.This serves as a barrier and keeps the skin protected against wetness.

Allow her to go diaper free when possible. Simply place a few towels or waterproof pad underneath her bottom and let her air out.

Avoid using any of your baby wipes/baby washes/baby powders etc as these all have chemical ingredients that can irritate the skin.

Try changing diaper brands *switch to cloth or vice versa* disposable diapers contain chemicals that may be irritating your baby's skin. Giving her a break can make the world of difference.

Diaper Rash Prevention:

• Change your baby's diaper as soon as it becomes wet or soiled. Thoroughly clean your baby's bottom of any urine or feces. You may end up buying or washing more diapers but its certainly worth it!This may mean using more diapers or even more diapers to wash but its worth it to save a bottom from becoming irritated.

• Use a protective ointment that contains zinc oxide/petroleum ideally, after each diaper change. Sometimes plain old petroleum jelly works just as well and its budget friendly.

• Keep in mind that when your baby starts eating solid foods, sometimes food allergies can cause rash outbreaks. Introduce one new food at a time and allow up to a week to determine if there are any food sensitivities before you start on the next food.

• Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to boost your baby's immune system. The benefits of breast feeding your baby until at least age 12 months helps him to build resistance to infections thus lessening the need for antibiotics which can be a contributor to diaper rash outbreaks.

• If you are using cloth diapers wash them in hot water and use a detergent that is free of any dyes or fragrances. Do not use any bleach or fabric softeners. These harsh chemicals build up in the diapers causing them to become less absorbent and can irritate your baby's delicate skin. You should always double rinse your diapers to ensure that all soap has been removed from the diapers. You can also add half a cup of vinegar to the first rinse water to restore pH balance and fluff up the diapers.

• Dress you baby in loose clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or even organic cotton clothing.

If you find that the rash has become worse or your baby develops other symptoms then call your pediatrician.

Signs of Neglect

Some diaper rashes are a due to direct neglect of the caretaker and failure to properly care for a diaper rash. If your baby is being cared for by a nanny, babysitter or even in a childcare center you should expect adequate care of your baby. This includes having basic needs met like feedings and diaper changes.

If your baby has a diaper rash its important that you talk with the caretaker about proper care of the rash and directions for use of any ointments, creams or any other specific diaper changing routines that your baby needs. Most childcare facilities have a daily diaper log and require changes every 2 hours. However, you should talk with the facility about their policies regarding using diaper creams/ointments.

Some examples:

Caregiver deliberately does not provide treatment for diaper rash while in care

Caregiver deliberately does not change infants diaper while in care

If you think that your baby is being neglected its important to take action

Talk with your pediatrician about your concerns or call

National Child Abuse Hotline and Referral Service : 1-800-4- A -Child for more information