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Does Teething Cause Nappy Rash?

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Nappy rash is just as unpleasant as it sounds – a sore, red rash surrounding your baby’s most sensitive areas.

Some parents find that nappy rash gets worse during teething. But before we explore the relationship between teething and nappy rash, first let’s take a look at what nappy rash is, along with some of the things that can cause it.

What is Nappy Rash?

Mild cases of nappy rash just look like red patches on your baby’s bottom. There may also be spots, pimples, and blisters. More severe cases of nappy rash can involve cracked skin, and even a bit of oozing.

Nappy rash is mostly harmless, and it will usually fade with time. If the rash is mild, your baby’s unlikely to even notice it. But the more severe the rash, the more discomfort and distress they’ll feel.

Nappy rash is very common. The NHS estimates that about 25% of babies and toddlers have nappy rash at any one time.

What Causes Nappy Rash?

Most cases of nappy rash are caused by your baby’s skin being in contact with urine or excrement for too long. Nappies repeatedly rubbing against your baby’s skin can also cause a rash.

Certain chemicals can trigger nappy rash, or else make existing rashes worse. For example, alcohol-based baby wipes can upset a baby’s skin, and some babies are sensitive to soaps, detergents, and bubble baths.

Nappy rash can also occur as a side effect of certain medicines, such as antibiotics.

Does Teething Cause Nappy Rash?

Yes, there is a link between teething and nappy rash. When your baby’s teething, they’ll produce more saliva than ever before. A lot of this drool will pass into their stomach, which can result in diarrhoea and more acidic urine.

So a teething baby may fill their nappy more often, and when they do, their urine will be stronger and harsher than usual. This can make nappy rash more likely.

How To Treat and Prevent Nappy Rash
  • Change your baby’s nappy as soon as possible.
  • Be gentle when cleaning the nappy area, but also try and be as thorough as you can. Wipe from front to back, and use alcohol-free baby wipes.
  • Bathe your baby every day, and dry them gently afterward, without any vigorous rubbing. But don’t bathe them more than twice a day, as this could dry out their skin. While bathing your baby, don’t use any soap, bubble bath, lotions or talcum powder. All of these products can contain harsh chemicals that could dry out or irritate your baby’s skin.
  • You can use a combination of nappy rash cream and barrier cream to treat existing nappy rash, and to prevent any further nappy rash from developing. Talk to your GP or pharmacist for more information.
  • Take care of the nappies you use. First, they should fit properly. If they’re too tight, they’ll rub against your baby’s skin too much. If they’re too loose, they won’t soak up urine very well. Your baby’s nappies should also be comfortable while allowing for easy movement. Look for nappies that avoid using harsh chemicals that could irritate your baby’s skin.
Reusable Nappies Can Help Prevent Nappy Rash

Our reusable nappies are made from soft cloth and other natural, bottom-friendly materials. So they’re a lot more comfortable to wear than standard disposable nappies, with less chance of friction.

What’s more, we don’t use any chemicals, dyes, or plastics. So along with regular bathing, gentle drying, and quick changing, our reusable nappies can help reduce nappy rash.

Head here to read a complete guide to how reusable nappies work, and how to use them.

You can also browse our range of reusable nappy starter packs and boosters.

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