If your infant has diaper rash you will spot the signs. Some of the skin which has been covered by the diaper, probably the genital area, the buttocks and, folds of skin where legs and buttocks meet will be reddish in color and inflamed. The area can be either dry or moist and sometimes will appear to be pimply.

If you spot these symptoms you should deal with them straight away as, untreated it could develop into something worse such as a yeast or bacterial infection. Yeast infections (candida or thrush) are much more common in babies that are taking antibiotics. The drugs will have killed the "good" bacteria which would usually keep the yeast under control, as well as the infection they were intended to treat. Yeast infections normally begin as small red spots, which multiply and grow into solid red blotches. Bacterial infections, which are often accompanied by a fever, can cause oozing yellow patches or pus-filled pimples.

Why has my infant got diaper rash?

A major cause of diaper rash is dampness. New-borns urinate often and will have several loose bowel movements throughout any 24-hour period. Diarrhoea can also lead to diaper rash. It is almost impossible for you to keep your infant dry at all times. You may notice bowel movements quite quickly but you won’t spot notice every time your infant urinates. Even the best diaper will leave some moisture in contact with the skin. You must make every effort to change your baby’s diaper regularly to minimise the risk of diaper rash. However, if your infant has particularly sensitive skin they may be likely to develop diaper rash even if you do change it regularly.

How can I treat diaper rash?

Prevention is always better than cure so make every effort to keep your infant clean and dry. If your infant is not yet mobile let them have time without wearing a diaper to allow the air to dry of the infected area. This will speed up the healing process. Make sure the room is warm and dry and let the infant lay on a towel, which you can wash as required. If your infant is mobile you may not want to try this unless you have an area which can be easily cleaned.

If your infant’s rash is allergy based you should use clean warm water and cotton wool to wipe the infected area. Try switching to a super absorbent diaper to minimise moisture on the skin.

A normal diaper rash should clear up after three or four days of treatment at home. If the rash persists, spreads, or gets worse whilst you are home treating you should make an appointment to see your doctor. He may prescribe a hydrocortisone or anti-bacterial cream.

How can I prevent diaper rash?

1. Change your infant’s diaper as soon as possible if notice it has become wet or soiled.

2. Clean the area thoroughly every time you change a diaper. Allow the skin to dry before you put a clean diaper back onto your infant.

3. Coat the diaper area with a protective cream during each change.

4. Don’t fasten diapers too tightly and make sure that there is room for air to circulate.