|  Nappy Rash: How to Prevent and TreatSunday, 10 October 2010 Babies have very delicate and often sensitive skin and this is particularly true of the nappy area. Whether you use real nappies or disposable nappies, you need be careful to ensure that your baby does not suffer unduly from nappy rash. What causes Nappy Rash? Nappy rash is often caused by the poo and wee reacting to each other, creating ammonia, so good hygiene is essential as are frequent nappy changes, with the recommendation being at least every 4 hours during the day. Other causes of nappy rash include upsets in your baby's tummy, perhaps because of illness or colds, teething etc, or a fungal infection. Nappy rash is NOT caused by using washable nappies. How to help prevent nappy rash Most babies will suffer from nappy rash as some point but simple techniques to help you keep it to a minimum include:
1. Clean the nappy area Regular, proper cleaning of the nappy area is essential. Newborns will need changing up to 7 or 8 times during the day, reducing to every 4 hours once they are a little older. The nappy area must be thoroughly cleaned and dried at every nappy change. Some parents like to use warm water and cotton wool or a reusable cotton wipe, especially for newborns. Other parents will use a disposable baby wipe, some of which can be flushed away. Disposable baby wipes have the advantage of already containing cleansing agents but parents do need to read the ingredients carefully as some non-organic wipes may contain chemicals that can irritate delicate skin. An alternative is to use a cleansing cream or baby oil – apply with cotton wool and gently wipe off, making sure all traces of the cream are removed. Before putting a clean nappy on the baby, ensure that the skin is completely dry. 2. Use a nappy cream Some parents like to use a nappy change cream or barrier cream, either at every nappy change time or once or twice a day. Ensure that you choose a natural or organic nappy cream, one that will sooth your baby's skin without preventing it from breathing. Always apply creams sparingly and allow to sink in and dry before replacing the nappy. 3. Nappy free time Babies love to kick around without their nappies on and this is a great way of keeping the nappy area fresh and healthy. Place the baby on a waterproof changing mat on the floor or the middle of the bed and allow them to kick away. You may like to tickle them, use it as opportunity for a gentle massage or place a baby gym over the baby. My daughter (a January baby) used to love lying on the floor next to a sunny window. Putting a cloth nappy (a terry square is ideal) under your baby will help you deal with any little accidents. Safety Do remember never to leave you baby unattended on a bed or other high place in case they roll and fall off. If you are worried about your baby's health, then do seek medical advice - long running nappy rash could be a symptom of an underlying health issue. General advice given on this site is for educational purposes only and must not be used as a replacement for qualified medical advice.
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