Diaper rashes occur frequently in the first two years of life. Baby girls can develop several different types of diaper rashes, each with different causes and treatments. Rashes can intensify when baby girls begin eating solids. According to Dr. Sears, diaper rashes are a completely normal occurrence.
Contact Diaper Rash
The most common type of rash experienced in nearly every baby is a contact rash. Also known as a friction rash, these occur as a result of the diaper rubbing on the baby girl's bottom and genital area. Contact rashes are red and nearly flat, although they may appear puffy. This kind of rash is treated by applying over-the-counter diaper creams and allowing the baby to go diaper free. Rinsing the bottom with warm water is an effective cleansing method instead of irritating the skin with chemical-laden wipes.
Yeast Rash
Yeast rashes are extremely red, raised and can be very painful. Baby girls who have been on antibiotics are at risk for a yeast rash, which may cover the entire genital area, including the folds of the labia. Yeast rashes do not respond to over-the-counter diaper creams, therefore they will last longer than contact rashes. No improvement will be noted until an antifungal cream like Nystatin is used.
Irritant Rash
Unlike contact and yeast rashes, irritant rashes generally do not appear in folds or creases on the baby girl's bottom. According to Dr. Alan Greene, irritant rashes can be caused by a variety of sources, such as laundry detergent, soaps and baby wipes. Large areas of skin, such as on the baby's buttocks, will be covered with a rash due to its exposure with the irritant. Treating this rash involves identifying and eliminating the offending irritant.
Allergy Ring Rash
Certain types of food can cause diaper rashes if the baby is sensitive. Red rings appear around the baby's anus as a result of certain foods, particularly those with high acidity like citrus fruits or tomato-based dishes. Parents who suspect a food allergy rash should work to determine the cause and eliminate it from the diet. Allergies can also be transmitted through breast milk so the mother's diet may need to be modified as well.
