Nappy rash
What is it?
It is a rash that can vary from a red rash to bad
inflammation with sores and pimples.
Why does it happen?
A baby's skin is so new that it has difficulties dealing with soaps
creams and lotions, even especially gentle ones which are designed
specifically for babies.
Another common cause of nappy rash in babies, particularly
newborns, is thrush. Talk to your LMC or doctor if you suspect your
baby has thrush as he or she will need an antifungal treatment
cream.
Nappy rash can also be caused by friction from the nappy rubbing
on baby's delicate skin, or if the nappy is not changed frequently
enough.
Occasionally some babies will get nappy rash from the chemicals
in disposable nappies - if this occurs try using a different brand,
or using cloth nappies.
Nappy rash can also occur if the skin is left damp. Once the
problem begins it only gets worse if untreated and the broken skin
provides a breading ground for other infections.
What can I do?
Try not to use toiletries (wet wipes, powders, lotions
etc.), and if you must, only use the very mild ones. Warm
water is best. Frequent nappy changes are important, especially
after bowel motions.
There is debate regarding the use of creams and lotions on the
affected area, some parents find they are a help and others find
they only make the problem worse. Zinc-based barrier creams
may be helpful, although beware of creams that contain both zinc
and castor as they usually contain arachis (nut) oil which can be
harmful to babies with a history of allergy. There are also a large
number of homeopathic nappy rash treatments available, consult your
local natural health practitioner or health foods store for advice
on these. Vaseline makes a good barrier cream to help prevent nappy
rash but is not recommended for treating existing rashes.
The best thing you can do to help prevent nappy rash is to allow
your baby "nappy-off" time at least once a day to allow his or her
bottom time to breathe. Be sure to put a cloth underneath baby to
protect the carpet from little puddles!