Dealing with diaper rash

What is diaper rash? You'll know it when you see it. It can happen regardless of the type of diapers you use. The rash can appear on genitals, thighs, and baby's bum. It can even bleed.

It's usually caused by skin irritation from contact with dirty diapers. It can also be caused by a reaction to new foods, especially acidic ones like citrus fruit and tomatoes. In some cases, diaper rash can be caused by a yeast infection, in which case you'll need to go see your doctor for a prescription.

Typically, however, you can treat diaper rash yourself, and it will clear up in two to four days. Here's what you can do:

• Change diaper frequently, especially right before and after naps
• Check if baby needs a diaper change throughout the night
• Always change your baby first thing in the morning
• Use petroleum jelly as "barrier ointment"
• Use a diaper cream containing zinc oxide as a "barrier ointment"
• Don't use baby powder
• Try giving baby some diaper-free time
• Try a baking soda bath
• Don't use hydrocortisone cream unless advised by your doctor

Take baby to the doctor if the rash persists or gets worse even when you treat it, especially if it also has blisters, boils, pus or discharge.

Some baby wipes will really sting your wee one when he has a rash. Try making your own. Here's how:

1. Cut a roll of half-sheet, good quality, paper towels in half crosswise so you have two short rolls. Pull out the cardboard tubes.
2. Combine 2 cups of boiled-then-cooled water with one tablespoon baby oil and one tablespoon mild castile baby soap
3. Add the solution to a large upright plastic container with a lid (one that would hold a bag of sugar), then insert one of the half-rolls of towels. Let it stand for 10 minutes, then flip the towels around so that they're evenly soaked. After another 10 minutes they're ready to go. Pull the towels from the centre of the roll.

You may have to adjust the amount of water depending on the paper towels. Happy parenting!