DEALING WITH A BURNING BUM

Wishing there was a magic potion that could cure a nappy rash overnight? Follow this advice for prevention and cure

WHAT IS IT?

Nappy rash is a red skin rash around baby’s genitals and bum. Sometimes it’s just a slight redness, while it can be full-scale inflammation at other times. A burning bum is caused by irritated skin and can become a bacterial infection if it’s not treated. Thrush or a fungal infection can also be possible causes.

HOW TO CLEAN A SORE BUM

If your baby’s bum is very raw it can help to wash his tush in lukewarm water three times a day. You can add a little baking soda to the water.

WHY DOES MY BABY GET IT?

It’s caused by a wet or dirty nappy – the wet, muggy environment is the ideal place for the development of fungal infections. The ammonia in urine irritates baby’s skin and breaks down the protective layer of the skin, so it becomes red and inflamed. This exposes your baby to further infection.

So if baby’s nappies aren’t changed regularly, you can almost be guaranteed that your baby will get a nappy rash at some stage. Any skin irritation – from the chemicals in wipes or nappies, or the fragrances in baby creams and soaps – can also contribute to nappy rash. Diarrhoea or too much acid are also sometimes to blame.

If baby has to take antibiotics, it can contribute to nappy rash as the result of a fungal infection. Sometimes it could also be the result of the transmission of thrush (candida) from the carer.