Are you in need of advice for how to manage your bub’s nappy rash?

Our resident midwife Kath has shared her top tips:

Prevention of nappy rash is important – aim to keep the skin clean and dry from urine & faeces. Disposable nappies are designed to draw moisture away from the skin. Changing nappies and nappy pants frequently will minimise the amount of time that urine and faeces are in contact with the skin. As a guide, if your child is under 12 months old, change their nappy about five to seven times a day. Normally done when the baby wakes for a feed.

At each nappy change, wipe your baby’s bottom gently with cotton balls and warm water or WaterWipes baby wipes. Other baby wipes can contain perfume or scents which can be very irritating and should not be used.

If the skin is reddened, a thick nappy rash cream should be heavily applied at each nappy change. This will prevent moisture and irritants from reaching the skin. Zinc paste is best. These creams are available from your pharmacy or may be prescribed by your doctor.

Try to let your baby have as much time without the nappy on as possible. Place baby on their tummy with a nappy underneath them for absorption.

Do not use talcum powder or antiseptics on nappy rash.

ABOUT KATH

A mother of two with a Bachelor of Nursing and certificates in both nursing and midwifery, Kath has been a Registered Nurse and Midwife for over 30 years in both public and private hospitals throughout NSW and Queensland. Experienced in antenatal classes, antenatal assessment, labour ward and postnatal care for families, Kath most recently spent 13 years at the Wesley Hospital in Brisbane as a nurse and clinical nurse. Kath describes her job as the most rewarding in the world as she meets and cares for precious and unique little humans. She feels privileged to be with families as they welcome new life and to assist them with caring for their new baby.