Articles and Advice: Your Baby 0-6 Months

Occasionally, diaper rash is caused by a yeast infection and needs special treatment. Usually, though, it is caused by direct contact with wet or soiled diapers. The skin gets red, raw and bumpy. To prevent diaper rash:

• Change diapers as soon as they become wet or soiled.
• Wash the area with water at every diaper change.
• Wash girls from front to back.
• Let your baby's bottom air-dry whenever possible.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly before you put on another diaper.

With proper care, diaper rash usually clears up in 3 to 4 days. If the rash spreads or gets more irritated, blisters develop, or the skin breaks open, talk with your baby's doctor or nurse.