What is Diaper Rash?
Diaper rash is red, patchy inflammation found on babies’ skin where they wear their diapers. It is caused by wetness and irritation, and can affect areas such as around the buttocks, thighs and genitals. Babies may feel discomfort and pain from diaper rash, as their diapers can rub these sensitive areas.
Symptoms you may notice from diaper rash include:
Baby’s skin around the diaper area becoming puffy and tender
Changes in behavior
- Increased moodiness
- Acting uncomfortable especially during diaper changes
He or she may even cry or fuss when the diaper area is being washed or touched
Prevention + Treatment
DIAPER RASH CAUSES
As babies continue to grow and change, they reach exciting milestones which are cause for celebration! Unfortunately, these milestones can also contribute to developing diaper rash. This is due to changes in babies’ behavior and growth, which can ultimately cause irritation in the diaper area. Milestones should be celebrated, so being aware that they can be a trigger for diaper rash keeps you ahead of it!
TEETHING
Although teething itself doesn’t cause diaper rash, the excessive drool that comes from chewing on everything in sight can irritate babies’ tummies, resulting in diarrhea. Continued contact with irritants like diarrhea can contribute to diaper rash.
SLEEPING CHANGES
It’s a wonderful thing when babies start sleeping through the night. However, along with that much needed extra sleep comes more exposure to soggy diapers. This in turn irritates babies’ sensitive skin and can cause diaper rash.
SOLID FOODS
Transitioning to solid foods is very exciting for parents and their babies. These new foods and textures can be stimulating for babies, but they can also impact when ends up in their diapers! This can irritate babies’ skin and cause diaper rash.