Nappy rash is very common in babies and toddlers. The cause is sometimes a little difficult to ascertain. Here's a list of 8 common causes and what to do.
1. Over feeding a newborn.
Over feeding a newborn can cause bub to have frequent, explosive pooing. This poo causes reddened buttocks. In serve cases, this can lead to bleeding buttocks.
2. Using chemical impregnated wipes.
Many wipes have harsh soap-like products in them. Frequently wiping a baby's skin with these chemicals can cause a reaction. I recommend using water and a chucks cloth (cut in half) to wash bub's bottom. If the cloth is washed and rinsed after each nappy change, it can be reused many times. This is chemical-free and a cheaper option.
3. Some babies react to disposable nappies (sometimes to specific brands of nappies).
The usual culprit is a chemical within the nappy used to reduce faecal smell. It may be a good idea to try a different nappy brand. Failing this, cloth nappies maybe your only option.
4. Infrequent changing of nappies.
Changing a nappy each time a baby poos or wees is not necessary. But do change at least 4 hourly.
5. If you use cloth nappies, washing liquid or powder may contribute to a rash.
Try using a 'sensitive' washing liquid or powder.
6. Poor rinsing of the cloth nappies.
In this instance you may find the rash appearing on other parts of the body. It is really important that soap is properly rinsed from all clothing.
7. Teething and diet high in sugar.
A little one who's teething and has a diet high in sugar will often produce acidic poos. These acid poos cause scalded-like rashes.
In this case, reducing the acid in the poos will help. This can be achieved by eliminating high sugar foods. In particular: citrus fruit, juices and anything with added sugar or sweeteners.
Secondly, to prevent severe scalding, bub's nappy must be changed ASAP after the poos occurs .
To treat the rash: Dab off the excess poo very gently. Do not scrub hard. Have a dish of warm water and add a teaspoon or 2 of Bicarb. Soda to the water. Bicarb Soda has a neutralising effect on acid. Rinse the baby's bottom with the water (over a tub, not the kitchen sink). Leave the clean nappy off for a time and, very gently apply Non-Petrochemical Paw Paw Ointment to the scalded area. The fresh air will help the skin heal. Apply nappy when you think it is time.
8. Vaginal Births: Thrush Fungus.
A baby born via the vagina can develop a rash soon after being birthed. This is due to the fungal bug called Candida Albicans- Thrush fungus.
Most mothers have this 'bug' in their vagina. Some babies take it up as they pass through the vagina. Don't worry, it is all very normal and quite healthy. Vaginal births are so much healthier, as it has the effect of triggering the immune system into gear from birth on, rather than at 6 months, which is what usually occurs for a Caesar born baby. The mouth and genital areas are ideal for Thrush to grow. It thrives in moist warm areas of the body. It can also emerge after a baby receives anti-biotics.
Thrush is fairly easy to identify. On the genital area it is usually:
- red, rough and blistery looking;
- it does NOT respond to the usual nappy rash creams; and
- it will spread.
An Anti Fungal cream or ointment will show healing results within a day or 2. These creams are available over the counter at Chemists. No prescription from the Doctor is needed.
As a side note, it has been my experience that the anti-fungal prescription called Nilstat has usually shown very little help treating Thrush. It is often having to be used for well over 3 weeks, where as other Anti Fungal treatments have shown far better effects and taken far less time to treat the Thrush problem.
If you are unsure about your bub's nappy rash, please come and see me for free at Ashgrove Pharmacy, Thursday's between 10am and 1pm. For further details see the "Rene's Services" tab.
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