Many parents are able to recognize the signs of a diaper rash before things get out of hand. Red, and often raised blotchy skin which is warm to the touch and causes your little one to cry out in discomfort while being changed. Diaper rash is generally thought to occur as a result of prolonged contact with urine or feces, friction from rubbing against the diaper, a side effect of antibiotic use, pre-existing dermatitis, or contact with chemicals causing skin irritation.

Preventing diaper rash can be achieved by trying one or all of these helpful hints:

• Be sure the diaper your child is wearing is not too snug, though you want to prevent leaks, some airflow must remain
• Do not rely on the weights listed on disposable diapers, go by fit
• Use barrier creams like petroleum jelly or zinc oxide (be sure to smear it on like icing a cake, not rub it in)
• Bathe the bottom area and allow it to air dry after each changing, or at least a couple of times throughout the day
• Avoid scented diapers, wipes and strong bath soaps as these products are known to cause issues with sensitive skin
• Change your child more frequently in warmer weather and even through the night
• Consider more absorbent night time diapers, or add extra padding if using cloth diapers
• Carefully wash your cloth diapers to ensure that all of the germs are removed
• Consider breastfeeding your baby, as it is believed that breastfed babies experience fewer diaper rashes

From experience, there are times when diaper rash simply can’t be avoided, like when your child is teething, has had their needles, or happens to have an allergic reaction to a food product. During these times, lots of “air time” will benefit that sore bottom. If after 4 days you’re the rash is not diminishing, and has raised red edges, it might be time to visit your doctor to check for a yeast infection.

What has been your experience with diaper rashes?

Image Credit: chimothy27