Yeast Infection Diaper Rash in Babies

The appearance of diaper rash or diaper dermatitis in babies is a common occurrence. But sometimes a diaper rash tends to persist for long even after trying every possible cure. Such a diaper rash may develop due to yeast. Yeast diaper rash can emerge on the abdomen, thighs, genitals and genital creases.

What is a Yeast Infection Diaper Rash?

An infection on the skin caused by the growth of fungus or yeast called ‘Candida albicans’ may lead to a diaper rash in babies. Such diaper rashes start with the softening and disintegration of the skin tissue around the anus. The infected area can then become inflamed. Some fluid formation may also be noticeable underneath the skin. Small red bumps called satellite pustules can be seen establishing at the fringes of the rash.

What Causes Yeast Diaper Rash in a Child?

Diaper rash in a child is not restricted to only one cause; there are many possible reasons for why a baby may get a diaper rash:

• Nonabsorbent diapers, cloth diapers, or very tight diapers can keep the baby’s bottoms moist and warm thereby providing a conducive environment for the yeast to thrive, which ultimately causes a yeast diaper rash.
• In some cases, if the breastfeeding mom is on a course of antibiotics or the baby is taking medicines, it may increase the chances of a yeast diaper rash because antibiotics can destroy the good bacteria that holds yeast growth in check.
• A yeast diaper rash may also occur due to thrush (Candida infection in the infant’s mouth). Yeast can travel through a baby’s digestive system to reach his stool from where it may ultimately enter his diaper area.
• Reaction to certain soaps or detergents used to wash cloth diapers can also make the baby prone to yeast diaper rash.

Signs & Symptoms of Yeast Diaper Rash in Infants

As a new parent, you won’t be aware if your child has a yeast diaper infection. So, know these signs and symptoms of a yeast diaper rash and take action if your child has it:

• The red rash has a somewhat elevated border.
• The rash continues to persist despite the usual diaper rash treatments.
• The infected area becomes scaly.
• Blisters and pimples fill with pus.
• Slight red patches or satellite lesions may appear.
• Characteristically the rash remains under the diaper area.

Medical Treatment for Yeast Diaper Rash

In case the yeast diaper rash shows no signs of disappearing, it is wise to contact your doctor. Your doctor after examining the rash may suggest mild antifungal creams like Lotrimin (clotrimazole), Mycostatin (nystatin), Monistat-Derma (miconazole). He may also prescribe a 1% hydrocortisone cream if it is a severe rash. Applying the medication a couple of times in a day or as suggested by the doctor may help in curing the yeast diaper rash.

Home Remedies

If you are wondering how to get rid of yeast diaper rash the following home remedies can be helpful:

1. Coconut Oil

Applying coconut oil on a yeast diaper rash can be a useful remedy. Coconut oil has antifungal properties which can help to keep the yeast growth in check.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics encourage the development of healthy gut bacteria which can aid in the destruction of yeast infection in our body. Consuming foods like yoghurt that contain active cultures can lower the risk of yeast infection. Spreading some live bacteria yoghurt on the rash can also be beneficial.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar also possesses antifungal properties. Using apple cider vinegar mixed with water in a ratio of 1:3 to wipe baby’s bottom while changing his diaper can prove helpful in curing Candida infection.

4. Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract may be effective against yeast infection as it is fungicide and antimicrobial. Mix 10 drops of grape seed extract to 1 ounce of purified water and use the solution to clean the infected area.

5. Fresh Air

Keeping your baby’s bottom free of a diaper for a few hours may stop yeast infection from increasing but will also help in drying out the rash.

6. Breast Milk

If you are a breastfeeding mom, you can smear some of the breast milk on the rash. Breast milk contains antibodies that may prove beneficial in killing the yeast.

7. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an antifungal which makes it a popular treatment for skin issues. You can make a diaper cream at home by adding a drop of tea tree oil to some coconut oil and using it after a diaper change.

8. Hot Water Wash

In case your baby wears cloth diapers make sure you properly wash them in a solution of hot water and vinegar to efficiently eradicate the yeast.

9. Garlic

Garlic can help in abolishing the yeast infection by strengthening the immune system. If your baby is consuming solids, you can even mix some fresh powdered garlic into his food.

10. Change in Diet

If your baby is vulnerable to repeated diaper rashes, certain changes in the diet like reducing sugars may help.

How to Prevent Baby from Getting Yeast Infection Diaper Rash?

Here is a list of things that you may like to keep in mind to prevent yeast infection diaper rash:

• Keeping the diaper area dry and clean can help prevent the occurrence of yeast diaper rash.
• Frequently change the diapers especially after your baby soils it.
• Properly clean your baby’s bottoms with water and gently pat them dry between diaper changes.
• Be careful not to put the diaper too tightly lest it prevents proper air circulation.
• Choose absorbent diapers for your baby that keeps your baby’s skin moisture free.
• Avoid using scented baby wipes or harsh detergents to wash the diapers made of cloth.
• In case you use cloth diapers, resist using rubber over the diaper.

When to Consult a Doctor?

You may want to consult a doctor in the following cases:

• If the rash persists for long.
• If the rash appears to be spreading to other parts of the body.
• If your baby has a fever.
• If you notice sores or blisters.
• If the rash begins to ooze pus.

The incidence of yeast diaper rash in babies is usually not a dangerous situation. Maintain good hygiene and take appropriate steps to prevent the yeast from increasing. The advent of yeast diaper rashes normally reduces in babies with age and may end when babies stop wearing diapers.