Your Baby and Nappy Rash

What we know

Unfortunately we live in a country with a temperate climate where babies generally need to be wearing nappies and clothes 24 hours a day. Their bodies are protected from the elements but their bottoms can get sore from all of the nappy wearing.

Nappy rash is very common in young babies and there are a number of causes. Usually it is easy to treat with cream and will clear up quickly.

Causes

•   Irritation from wee or poo if they have been wearing the same nappy for a while

•   Not cleaning the nappy area well enough

•   Using wipes which contain alcohol - water wipes are the safest for small babies

•   Taking antibiotics

•   Irritation from the nappy itself

•   Washing your baby with bubble bath or soap.

What does it look like?

It will be obvious if your baby has nappy rash. The nappy area may look red and sore. It may be hot to touch and your baby may be irritable or fussy.

In some cases your baby may have spots, pimples or blisters on the area.

How do I treat it?

The most important thing to do to avoid or treat nappy rash is to make sure you change your baby’s nappy as soon as it gets wet or dirty. Yes, you will get through a lot of nappies, especially in those first few weeks!

When changing your baby’s nappy, make sure you use alcohol-free, water-based wipes or use warm water and cotton wool.

Try to give your baby some nappy-free time so their skin can air dry. Lay down a towel and let them kick about for a little while in the nude.

 Use a barrier cream to protect their skin - apply a thin layer after you have cleaned the nappy area.

 If the rash isn’t clearing up ask a pharmacist or your GP if a different type of cream might help.

 Also always make sure your baby is wearing the right size nappy to avoid any chafing against their skin.

When to speak to a doctor

 If your baby’s nappy rash has lasted for more than a few days it could be a bacterial or fungal infection. Signs of this include pus-filled blisters or bright red, moist patches and your baby appearing distressed.

You may need an anti-fungal cream or some medicine to treat this. It should clear up quickly once diagnosed and treated.

What if it isn’t nappy rash?

If you don’t know what is causing the nappy rash, speak to your GP or health visitor. Other causes of rashes in the nappy area include eczema, cradle cap and oral thrush.

Always seek immediate medical help if your baby has a rash on their body which doesn’t fade under pressure from a glass. This could be a sign of meningitis which needs to be treated urgently.