Diaper Rash

A diaper rash can be any rash that develops inside the diaper area. In mild cases, the skin might be red. In more severe cases, there may be painful open sores, or cracked and bleeding skin. 

There are several different types of diaper rashes:

• Contact diaper rash, usually caused by prolonged contact of the skin to stool (feces) or during diarrhea illnesses
• Friction diaper rash, from rubbing or chafing by the diaper
• Yeast (Candida) infection, usually found around the front of the private area (genitalia)
• Bacterial infection, such as folliculitis or impetigo
• Allergic reaction to diaper material

Some babies seem to get diaper rash more than other babies. Possible reasons why include:

• If babies are not kept clean and dry
• In babies who have frequent stools, especially when the stools stay in their diapers overnight
• When babies begin to eat solid foods, especially fruits
• When babies are taking antibiotics, or in nursing babies whose mothers are taking antibiotics

Infants with mild to moderate diaper rash on the buttocks and around the rectum usually respond to common diaper rash creams, such as Desitin®, Dr. Smith's® ointment, or A&D® ointment. Apply these every time you change the diaper. 

Infants taking antibiotics are more likely to get diaper rashes caused by yeast infections. Yeast infects the weakened skin and causes a bright red rash with red spots at its edges, but is not as painful as it looks. This is treated with non-prescription anti-fungal creams such as Lotrimin AF® or prescription products such as nystatin cream. 

Please contact us if you have a diaper rash that does not respond within three or four days to these products.