How to Naturally Prevent Diaper Rash

The first time I took my baby to the doctor, he noticed and mentioned the diaper rash on her sensitive baby skin. As a new parent, I cringed and wondered what I'd done wrong, but in reality, most babies will experience diaper rash at some point. And you're not limited to conventional diaper rash creams for prevention and treatment; there are plenty of common-sense ways to naturally prevent diaper rash, too.

Diaper rash comes from several different causes, and can appear in different ways. Here are some natural ways to prevent and treat the various types of diaper rash.

Moisture is the most common cause of diaper rash; it can turn sensitive baby skin red within minutes. It's also easy to avoid if you're diligent. Simply keeping the skin dry will naturally prevent diaper rash. First, change your baby's diaper right away every time he wets or soils it. Even if you are using disposable diapers, your baby's skin will still be exposed to moisture if do not change the diaper every time. Wash the baby's bottom thoroughly with a baby wipe or warm water and a washcloth, even if the diaper is only wet and not soiled, and allow his skin to dry completely before putting another diaper on. You can even use a blow dryer set on low to dry the baby's skin.

For nighttime, if your baby is sleeping through the night and you don't want to change his diaper, you can apply a thick layer of diaper rash cream to repel moisture (there are many natural diaper rash creams available; you don't have to use conventional creams if you don't want to). You may also want to use either a disposable diaper or a special fleece-lined cloth diaper to help keep moisture away from the skin.

Yeast infection can result from excessive moisture as well, and may produce a more severe rash. A rash resulting from yeast infection will usually show up in the folds and creases of the baby's skin, where moisture and dirt can linger. A diaper rash that lingers despite treatment may also be a yeast infection. To prevent a yeast infection, follow the above guidelines for minimizing moisture, and pay special attention to folds and creases. Some natural diaper rash creams are formulated to help prevent yeast infections; look for those listed as anti-fungal. If your baby does get a yeast infection, you'll need to check with your doctor about anti-fungal treatments.

If left untreated, diaper rash can also turn into a bacterial infection, requiring antibiotic treatments. A bacterial infection will include pustules (yellowish, fluid-filled bumps) and/or yellowish, crusty areas. To prevent this, follow the above advice, and never let a diaper rash go untreated. If your baby does develop a bacterial infection (and it could happen, even if you are following directions), be sure to contact a doctor immediately.

SOURCES
WebMD, "Your Baby's Diaper Rash", http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/babys-diaper-rash
BabyCenter, "Yeast Diaper Rash", http://www.babycenter.com/0_yeast-diaper-rash_10913.bc