Tips To Prevent Nappy Rash By A Midwife Who Has Delivered Hundreds Of Bubs

As a new parent, seeing a baby experience nappy rash can be very distressing. It’s common to feel scared or worried, but it’s also important to remember that nappy rash is very common. It’s estimated that nappy rash can affect up to 1 in 4 nappy-wearing infants¹ and can affect babies of all ages². Nappy rash can present itself as inflamed red patches on a baby’s bottom, thighs and genitals. The skin may look tender, feel hot to touch and in some cases blisters or sores can appear³.

Information and advice on how to deal with nappy rash can come in from every direction – everything from claims of certain nappies causing nappy rash to debates on whether or not to use baby powder. I want to help you cut through the noise and understand the causes so that you can breathe a little easier and better equip yourself to keep you and your little one happy and healthy.

First things first – to prevent nappy rash you need to know the causes. These can include:

1. Prolonged skin contact with a wet or dirty nappy
   If your baby is going to the toilet more often or not being changed regularly enough this can lead to irritation on their skin
2. The area not being cleaned properly when nappy changing
   Make sure you clean and dry the area thoroughly after each change. Sometimes nappy rash can be caused from a bacterial infection and spread around – nappies can be a breeding ground for bacteria as it is warm and moist so an infection can develop and spread quickly.
3. Chafing from the nappy
   If your little one’s nappy or clothes are too tight, it can rub against the skin causing irritation and nappy rash. A nappy that is too tight also reduces airflow which can lead to the area becoming too moist
4. Using product that are irritating the skin
   Some babies have more sensitive skin than others. Soap, bubble bath, lotions or some topical ointments may have an irritant effect. Baby wipes are great for easy cleaning but ones that are perfumed or alcohol-based could all potentially irritate sensitive skin.
5. Medications
   If your baby is taking medication, such as prescribed antibiotics, this can affect bacteria levels that usually prevent nappy rash from occuring. If you’re still breastfeeding and taking antibioitics this could also have a similar effect.
6. Diet changes, food or allergies

Changes to your diet, particular foods or allergies can sometimes lead to nappy rash. For instances, foods high in citric acid such as oranges, strawberries and tomatoes can be causes of nappy rash.

There are many potential causes of nappy rash and it can sometimes be hard to prevent it. Here are my top tips on how to help prevent nappy rash so you and your bundle of joy stay happy come nappy changing time.

1. Change the nappy often
   Clean the skin every 3-4 hrs or as soon as possible after wetting or soiling. Keep a close eye on them and check their nappies regularly throughout the day.
2. Let the skin breathe as long as possible with nappy-free time
   Leave your baby’s nappy off for as long as you can to let fresh air to get to the skin and dry off the nappy area. Try to air out your baby’s skin regularly for short periods.
3. Clean and dry the area properly during nappy changes
   Wash your baby’s bottom gently and dry the skin thoroughly, patting instead of rubbing the area, especially if it sore.
4. Use a thin layer of barrier cream between nappy and skin
   Avoid talcum powder. At each nappy change, apply a thin layer of barrier cream to dry skin. This can prevent moisture build-up and also act as a protective layer. Consult with your health visitor or pharmacist to find one best for your bub.
5. Ensure you are using non-irritating products that are suitable for sensitive skin

Try to avoid soap, bubble bath, lotion or any products with ingredients that could potentially irritate or upset your baby’s skin more. If using wipes, I recommend gentle baby wipes like WaterWipes – they are great for sensitive skin and the world’s purest baby wipe, simply made from 99.9 percent water and a drop of fruit extract.

Nappy rash is, unfortunately, something that most babies will experience and dealing with it as a parent is never a fun job. You know your little one better than anyone so if you are feeling worried or unsure, please go see your GP, midwife or care provider.

Edwina Sharrock is a registered midwife, mother of two and founder of BirthBeat. With over 14 years of experience, she has delivered hundreds of babies and worked with thousands of parents to prepare them for their best birth and early parenting journey.

References:

1. Ravanfar,P., Wallace,J.S. and Pace,N.C. (2012) Diaper dermatitis: a review and update. Current Opinion in Pediatrics. 24(4), 472-479. [Abstract]
2. Cohen, B. (2017) Differential diagnosis of diaper dermatitis. Clinical Pediatrics 56(5S), 16-22. [Abstract]
3. Mayo Clinic. (2018). Diaper rash – Symptoms and causes. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaper-rash/symptoms-causes/syc-20371636. Accessed August 2022.

Guest post by Edwina Sharrock, OAM.

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