If you have a baby, you’re bound to develop diaper rash – according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), about half of all babies have had diaper rash. But not all rashes are created equal. While diaper rash is often described as reddish areas of your baby’s diaper area that can be itchy or uncomfortable, there are a few different types with unique causes. One type you may experience is called yeast diaper rash, which is caused by yeast overgrowth.
How can you tell the difference between yeast diaper rash and diaper rash caused by irritation, allergies, or bacteria?” “Yeast diaper rash tends to be a bright red rash that can be found within creases or folds in the diaper area,” describes Shannon Godsil, MD, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital and Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. “It doesn’t respond to diaper barrier cream and tends to get worse over time. ”
Read on to learn more about yeast diaper rash in infants, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, and most importantly, how to treat this nasty rash and prevent it from returning.
What Are the Causes of Yeast Diaper Rash?
Yeast diaper rash is caused by a yeast infection, which can be caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. Ali Alhassani, MD, clinical director at Summer Health, explains that this usually happens when there is an imbalance of yeast on the skin. “Yeast multiplies in areas that are moist and less exposed to air. The three most common places we see yeast rashes are skin folds in the diaper area, skin folds under the baby’s neck, and on the tongue (known as “yeast rash”). Thrush’),” Dr. Al-Hassani said.
Certain factors can increase your baby’s chances of getting a yeast infection in diapers, including:
- Diapers are wet for a long time
- Taking antibiotics (or breastfeeding parents are taking antibiotics)
- Stools are very frequent
In addition, Dr. Alhasani says that if your baby has a weakened immune system, they may be at greater risk. But Dr. Gosier points out that the truth is that the immune systems of the little ones are not yet fully developed, which may make them more susceptible to yeast infections. “Babies and young children are at greater risk to their immune systems and are therefore more likely to produce yeast not only in the diaper area, but also in the mouth (thrush),” she explains.
Yeast Urinary Rash Symptoms
Yeast diaper rash is often similar to other types of diaper rash, and it can be difficult to tell if your baby has it. That said, when diaper rash caused by yeast infections, some features stand out.
First, look for bumps. “Unlike regular diaper rash, yeast rashes appear as spots, bumps, or pimples rather than uniform redness,” explains Christina Johns, MD, a pediatric emergency physician at PM Pediatric Care Center. Dr Al-Hassani said these red raised areas usually form a predominantly rash area with several “satellite lesions” around it, or smaller rashes in nearby areas. The affected area may appear shiny.
Yeast diaper rash can also be distinguished by its specific location. “Yeast rashes often appear in skin folds and hard-to-reach areas,” says Dr. Johns.
Finally, the yeast rash can worsen over time and begin to take on an angry, bright red appearance. “If left untreated, the affected area may become rough, look very angry, and even bleed,” Dr. Johns described. Dr. Alhassani adds that the skin can also become flaky and scaly over time.
How to Treat Yeast Diaper Rash?
If your baby has yeast diaper rash, they may feel uncomfortable and you need to find ways to relieve the rash. Most yeast diaper rash can be treated with antifungal creams. You can buy some creams at over-the-counter pharmacies, such as clotrimazole and miconazole. Sometimes, your pediatrician will need to prescribe a stronger antifungal cream, such as nystatin. The use of steroids such as hydrocortisone may also help clear up any inflammation, which can be paired with an antifungal cream recommended by a pediatrician.
But medication isn’t the only way to solve the problem: there are a few other things you can do when your baby is diagnosed with a yeast infection. “Keeping the affected area dry and clean is the first step in dealing with yeast rash,” says Dr. Johns. “If possible, allocate some time without diapers (ventilation!) for the skin to heal, and avoid soaps, bubble baths, wipes, or other chemicals that contain fragrances until the yeast rash is gone.”
According to the Cleveland Clinic, yeast diaper rash may begin to subside after three days, but symptoms may persist for two to three weeks.
When to See a Doctor?
Whenever your baby has diaper rash that doesn’t get rid of with a simple barrier cream or seems to worsen over time, you should see a pediatrician. The American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends seeing a doctor if “your baby is taking antibiotic medication and has a bright pink or red rash with red spots around the edges” (which is characteristic of yeast diaper rash).
Diagnosing your baby’s rash on your own can be very difficult. “It’s important to talk to a pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment,” Dr. Alhasani said. Your pediatrician can also prescribe any strong antifungal medications if needed and advise you on which over-the-counter medications to try.
Prevent Yeast Diaper Rash
Treating yeast infections isn’t just about clearing the infection, it’s about preventing future outbreaks. Keep in mind that yeast does prefer dark, damp places, and your baby’s diaper area is just that. But don’t be afraid: there are steps you can take to make your baby’s diaper area less prone to yeast.
“Changing diapers frequently and cleaning the area thoroughly is the best tip to prevent yeast rashes,” advises Dr. Johns. “Make sure your baby is as dry as possible to stop yeast growth. She also recommends using warm water to clean your baby’s butt instead of just relying on wipes. You should also be mindful of the products you use and opt for unscented soaps, lotions, and detergents whenever possible.
Finally, Dr. Alhasani says you want to ventilate your baby’s butt once in a while and avoid tight, non-breathable diapers or pants. Always wash your hands before and after changing diapers.
At Last
Yeast diaper rash is no fun, and coping with this can be stressful as a parent. However, if you’re dealing with yeast diaper rash right now, you’re not alone: they’re one of the most common types of diaper rash. Be sure to contact your pediatrician to ask questions and seek the best course of treatment.