Nappy rash happens: most babies will suffer one at some point in their nappy-wearing career. Chaffing or contact allergies can be culprits, but most often the cause is simply wetness — chemicals and enzymes in urine and stools can constitute quite the toxic cocktail when left to marinate a soft baby’s bottom. Introduction to solid foods is one common trigger of nappy rash, antibiotics another, but nappy rash can occur at any time a child is in nappies. The basic prescription for treating and avoiding nappy rash is to keep the nappy area as clean, cool and dry as possible. This means changing nappies often, washing the nappy area with water, carefully dabbing it dry with a clean towel and letting baby air it out whenever possible. When it comes to nappy rash there is no clear advantage of cloth nappies over disposable or vice versa, so go with your preference on that one, though experts say you should avoid nappies that are too tight-fitting as well as any plastic or rubber pants. If the rash persists you might want to see if changing wipes or nappies makes a difference.
Dr. Sears
“Diaper Rash”
"When your beautiful baby is born, her skin is often perfect in every way. It is softer and smoother than it will ever be again. You are dismayed when she wakes up and her bottom is red and irritated when you change her diaper. What happened! What did you do wrong? Absolutely nothing! Having a diaper rash is a normal part of being a baby. There are many ways you can limit the amount of rash, but from time to time it will flare up again. " …read the full article
BabyCenter Australia
“Nappy Rash”
"The main cause is wetness. Newborns urinate often and have frequent, loose bowel movements. Even the most absorbent nappy leaves some moisture on a baby’s delicate new skin. A baby left in a dirty nappy for too long is more likely to develop nappy rash; however, it can still strike the bottoms of babies with particularly sensitive skin, even if their parents are frequent nappy changers. " …read the full article
Kids Life
“Nappy Rash- Prevention and Treatment”
"All mothers feel confronted if their babies have nappy rash. What will people think? The first thing to realise is that nappy rash is not a sign of parental negligence." …read the full article
Raising Children Network
“Nappy Rash”
"The skin in the nappy region looks red and sore. Some areas of skin may be raised or swollen and there may even be ulcers present. Skin folds are usually not involved because they are protected from exposure to urine. The rash may cause discomfort or pain, which may make the baby irritable and cry more often." …read the full article
Dr. Greene
“Treating Diaper Rash”
"Diapers were a wonderful invention, controlling infants’ waste products in a relatively convenient, clean, and healthy way. Still, ever since children began to wear diapers, diaper rash has been the most common skin disorder of infancy." …read the full article
