Preventing any condition or disease is usually much easier and less distressing to the victim than letting the condition develop and then having to treat it.  Diaper Rash is no exception.

Usually diaper rash is a result of the infant’s skin reacting to the moisture and bacteria in the urine or stool.  It may also be caused by the soap or other products used to wash cloth diapers or some brands of disposable diapers.  The condition may look alarming and can certainly be distressing for the infant, but, if treated promptly,  it is not usually dangerous.  Some infants seem more prone to diaper rash than others so consider the following measures for prevention.

1.  Make sure to change the diapers as soon as possible after they are soiled.  Check diapers often, at least every two hours.

2. At each diaper change, rinse the area gently with tepid water.  Gently pat the area dry before applying a fresh diaper.

3.  Leave the infants skin open to the air as often as possible, at least five to ten minutes when changing diapers.  Diaper loosely and avoid bulk.

4.  If cloth diapers are used, wash in hot water and avoid the use of bleach or fabric softeners.  Always use a mild detergent.  Rinse diapers twice.

5.  Since plastic pants keep the urine warm and trapped against the skin, avoid or limit their, use if at all possible.

6.  If your infant has diarrhea, you need to give the skin extra protection.  Your physician or pharmacist will suggest a suitable ointment to protect the neighboring skin.

7.  If you use disposable diapers, it may be worth changing brands until you find one that your child tolerates.  Avoid scented diapers and those with color.  These are prone to irritate sensitive skin.

Contact your family physician if:

A.  The rash  is severe and does not begin to clear within three or four days.

B.  The rash area becomes red and sore looking, or if there are peeling areas, blisters, pus, or crusty patches.

C.  The rash concentrates in the creased areas.  Such a condition can be caused by yeast infection.

For general use, petroleum jelly is as good as anything else to provide a protective barrier to gentle skin.  Fortunately most rashes do not prove dangerous and will disappear with moderate treatment.