Nappy Rash: What Is It & How To Fix It

Nappy rash is a red, moist or broken area on your baby’s bottom. Most babies get a nappy rash at some time, but some are more sensitive than others. Your baby’s skin needs to be clean and dry to help prevent nappy rash.

If your baby’s bottom has redness or spots:

1. Change them more often
2. Give them time without a nappy

Nappy rash can occur when:

• Your baby is left too long in a dirty or wet nappy
• a rough nappy rubs against your baby
• Your baby has a thrush infection
• Their skin is sensitive to a soap, bath product or detergent like washing powder
• You use baby wipes that contain alcohol
• Your baby is teething
• Your baby or toddler has recently been on antibiotics

How to heal nappy rash:

• Always wash your hands before and after changing your baby’s nappy. Use cotton wool and water to clean your baby’s skin. Try not to use baby wipes until your baby is 4 to 6 weeks old.
• Gently wash your baby’s bottom and pat it dry at each nappy change. Leave off the nappy for half an hour and expose the skin to fresh air, as much as possible.
• Add a thin layer of protective barrier cream. Your pharmacist, public health nurse, or GP can recommend one. You should only use a barrier cream if your baby has a nappy rash it should not be used daily unless you are advised to do the same.
• Don’t use bubble baths, talcum powder, or any scented products on your baby. Sometimes it can be helpful to give your baby their evening fluids early. This means the nappy may not be as wet overnight.

Remember babies don’t get nappy rashes from the brand of nappy you use. If you are concerned at all please contact your GP or local PHN. Go to your GP if your baby or toddler is in discomfort, your GP can prescribe an ointment to help to heal the nappy rash

There are many different types of nappy rash creams available. Make sure you speak to a healthcare professional on which one is best for your baby.

How We Can Help

We have a range of live online classes which you can attend from the comfort of your own home where you will get the chance to ask a midwife any questions you have throughout the class making you well-prepared for labour birth and more. You can see our range of available classes by clicking the button below.