Every baby gets diaper rashes every once in a while. But, did you know that there are different types of diaper rash, and some of them are actually caused by the same fungus that causes your vaginal yeast infections? Diaper rash yeast infections are caused by the Candida albicans fungus, and they require that you approach their treatment with special considerations.
Not your average diaper rash. There are some major differences between your run-of-the-mill diaper rash and a yeast infection diaper rash, having to do with contagion, duration, and treatment. If you’re not sure about your baby’s diaper rash, then you should ask your pediatrician for guidance.
The cause or the symptom? Diaper rash yeast infections are not always localized infections. Sometimes they are indicative of something more sinister, called systemic Candida. If your baby’s rash seems to persist no matter what you do and you begin noticing other, seemingly unrelated health conditions, then you should consult with your pediatrician to see if the diaper rash is really just a symptom of something much larger-scale.
The perfect breeding ground. Your baby’s diaper is the perfect breeding ground the for Candida albicans, which multiplies quickly in damp, dank environments. Wet and soiled diapers are your number one enemy when it comes to defeating diaper rash yeast infections. Change your baby’s diaper as soon as you notice it’s dirty.
Antifungal creams. There are a number of antifungal creams on the market that will work to treat your baby’s yeast infection diaper rash. Ask your pediatrician for a recommendation. The important thing is that your baby’s skin is completely dry before you apply the cream, or you could just be trapping moisture in the diaper and making the condition worse.
Avoid sweets. Candida albicans feeds on sugars and other carbohydrates. Therefore, you should avoid feeding your baby sweet foods and sugar-laden drinks, especially if a yeast infection is present.
Air it out. Because Candida albicans thrives in moist and warm places, you can do your baby a lot of good by airing the infection out as much and as often as possible. In between diaper changes, just leave your baby’s diaper off (if circumstances allow). If you can take baby outside into the sunshine while the diaper is off, even better.
Diaper rash yeast infections are highly contagious. It is possible for the infection to spread to other parts of the body and even cause more serious symptoms if you don’t get it under control as soon as possible.
If your baby is suffering from a diaper rash yeast infection, then you should be relieved to know that treatment is often relatively uncomplicated. The important part is that you get to it as soon as possible, and stay vigilant about giving its treatment the special attention it needs. If you have questions, visit the Candida Crusher community to learn more about treating yeast infections of all varieties.