Can teething cause nappy rash?
Teething, which often begins in babies around six months, can be a challenging time for both parent and baby4. During this period your baby or toddler may seem ‘out of sorts’ and irritable, with many minor symptoms commonly being blamed on the ‘teething’ phase.
Symptoms of teething include5:
- your baby's gum is sore and red where the tooth is coming through
- one cheek is flushed
- your baby is dribbling more than usual
- they are gnawing and chewing on things a lot
- they are more fretful than usual
Teething does not directly cause nappy rash. However, nappy rash can be caused by your baby’s skin coming into contact with stool and wee in their nappy, and if your baby is suffering from teething-induced diarrhoea, this may increase the likelihood of them suffering from nappy rash6.
Protect your teething child against nappy rash causes with barrier ointment for babies:
- Make sure their nappies are changed as soon as possible after they’ve been soiled, and use a barrier cream like Bepanthen® Nappy Care Ointment at every changing, to create a protective layer on their skin against the causes of nappy rash and to help aid in their natural skin recovery.
- Change your child's nappy five to seven times a day and remember to use a nappy cream everytime. Let air get to your baby’s bottom as often as possible. For example, let him go nappy-free during winding.
Help to make them feel better while teething5:
- Giving your baby chilled or frozen items to chew on, such as pacifiers, frozen food, or teething rings, can help soothe their sore gums.
- You can also talk to your local health care professional for further advice on pain relief.
References:
4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/teething/art-20046378
5. McIntyre G. T., McIntyre G. M. Teething troubles? British dental journal 192.5 (2002): 251-255
6. Prokscha E, et al. Topical use of dexpanthenol: a 70th anniversary article. Journal of dermatological treatment. 2017. (28:8). p 766-773
