Although diaper rash is a normal part of babyhood, seeing a baby with a raw red bottom that is the result of a diaper rash is no fun. But fortunately there are several things you can do to limit and treat a diaper rash.
Instructions
1. Prevent diaper rash. Change wet diapers every two hours and change them immediately following your baby's bowel movements. Diaper rashes can be caused by a moist or dirty diaper rubbing against the soft skin of your baby. You'll also want to be sure the diaper fits properly. Using unscented diapers and wipes can also help prevent diaper rash. Wiping your baby well can also help to prevent diaper rash.
2. Use a diaper rash cream or ointment preventively. Petroleum ointments are great to use every day as a barrier to protect your baby. Creams with zinc oxide, although can be messy, are also great to use for babies who are prone to diaper rash. Applying cream after each change can help to protect your baby's bottom.
3. If your baby has a diaper rash, wash the area with warm water and let it air dry.
4. Identify the type of diaper rash your baby has and treat accordingly. The most common red rash is most likely contact diaper rash that can be treated with zinc oxide. Intertrigo looks like a burn between the folds of the skin. This can be treated with a white petroleum based ointment. Yeast appears as little red bumps and is most commonly treated with a prescription ointment called Nystatin. Allergy rashes present as a ring around the baby’s anus and are often found in breastfeeding babies. Eliminating the offending food from the mom's diet is the best way to treat.
5. Contact your child's pediatrician. If you are concerned about your baby's diaper rash contact their healthcare provider.
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