Most babies get nappy rash at some time. There may be red spots or just general soreness.

What causes nappy rash?

1. Wetness is the main cause.
2. Some babies have sensitive skin which becomes red and inflamed.
3. Infection is established quickly on a moist warm skin: plastic pants used for long period will make the skin hot and damp. One of the most common infections associated with nappy rash is thrush {candida} in the nappy area. It can be cured by the use of a cream. It usually appears first in the mouth where it looks as if patches of milk are stuck to the tongue, inside the cheeks and on the roof of the mouth.
4. Terry nappies must be soaked in the sterilising solution before washing them in very hot water. Avoid enzyme washing powders and fabric conditioners which can irritate your babies skin. Make sure the nappies are very well rinsed.

How can it be prevented?

1. Change your baby's nappy often.
2. Keep your baby's skin clean and dry. If you use soap, carefully rinse it all off because it can overdry the skin.
3. You can use a barrier cream such as zinc and castor oil, which helps to protect against nappy rash, but it is usually enough just to leave your baby's skin clean and dry - some babies are sensitive to these creams.
4. Leave your baby to kick for a while without a nappy on if the room is warm enough, so that your baby's skin gets some fresh air.

What is the treatment?

If the rash gets very bad or won't go away, ask your Health Visitor or GP about it. Your baby may have thrush, which is an infection that needs treatment. Your GP can prescribe a cream that will clear up such an infection quite quickly. Sometimes medicine may be needed as well.

What should I do at nappy changing?

If your baby is dirty, use the nappy to clean off most of it. Then, using the cotton wool and warm water or baby lotion, clean girls from front to back to avoid getting germs into the vagina. Boys should be cleaned around the penis and testicles [balls]. Don't pull back the foreskin when cleaning the penis. Its just as important to clean carefully when you are changing a wet nappy. Avoid using baby powder because it can make your baby choke.

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