N/A

Parents often wonder how often they need to change their babies nappy.

Babies skin is very sensitive and a wet and dirty nappy against the skin often aggravates the natural barrier and it can cause nappy rash. Soiled nappies and friction can cause the rash as well as the irritants and chemicals found in urine and faeces.

Nappy rash may appear as red skin, lesions, swelling or spots around the genital, anal and/or thigh area. The area may also feel warm to touch.

If a nappy rash is left untreated it can cause a fungal infection or generalised infection. If you notice the nappy rash is: spreading; the skin is broken or weeping; your baby appears feverish and/or, it is not clearing after a few days, your baby should be reviewed by a doctor.

Young babies should have their nappy changed about 10-12 times over a 24 hour period.

Every time a baby is noticeably wet or has passed a stool, you should change the nappy.

What do I need to change my baby’s nappy?

- A changing mat

-Cotton wool and a bowl of water, or alcohol and fragrance free baby wipes

-A bag or bin for disposing the nappy (if you are using disposable nappies)

-Barrier cream to protect the skin

-A clean nappy (a liner and a cover if you are using cloth nappies)

Where should I change the nappy?

The best place is on a clean mat on the floor. This way, there is no chance they could fall.

If you do use a changing facility, keep your eyes on your baby at all time.

Changing a nappy.

Wash your hands prior to the nappy change.

Fully clean the nappy area regardless of whether it is a poo or wee.
If it is a poo, use the nappy to collect as much as possible before using the wipes
Use the damp cotton balls/wipes to clean the area front to back and ensuring all folds of skin are cleaned.
Ensure boys are cleaned underneath the penis and testicle area but there is no need to pull back the foreskin
Once clean, and if warm enough, leave your baby without a nappy for a short period for the area to dry. Chat, bond and enjoy communicating with your baby at this time.
Apply a thin layer of a barrier cream. Thin is important due to excess causing friction and nappy rash.
Re-apply a nappy ensuring it is not too tight but secure enough that there will be no leakage. Ensure the straps are not wet so they can stick securely together.
Ensure the nappy is disposed of in lidded trash/bin.

My baby has nappy rash already...

Clean your baby once a day in warm water and do not use soaps, lotions or bubble bath
Always change nappies as soon as possible
Dry your baby after washing them but avoid vigorous rubbing
Do not use talcum powder as it irritates the skin
Usually, nappy rash will clear up after a few days if following these hygiene tips
If your doctor prescribes a cream, you should apply this before the barrier cream and wait a few minutes for it to soak in.

Watch an example of how to change a nappy below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEV-oQmGDto

Sources: NHS/CDC

Author: Registered Midwife and Specialist Public Health Nurse from the United Kingdom- Abigail Laurie.