Because a yeast infection in the diaper area looks very much like regular diaper rash, many well-meaning mothers apply regular diaper cream to the baby's bottom. Unfortunately, regular diaper cream and baby powder will do nothing for the yeast infection. That is why it is important to determine if your baby's skin problems are caused by yeast so you can clear it up as quickly as possible. .
A yeast infection is different from a diaper rash in that it appears as a flat, red rash with scalloped edges that usually several tiny rashes around it. While applying diaper cream may temporarily relieve the itching and soreness, it will do nothing to heal the infection. Without proper treatment a yeast infection in a baby is likely to get progressively worse.
The only things that will get rid of a yeast infection are antifungal creams, ointments or powders. Some doctors write a prescription for Nystatin, while others may recommend using an over the counter medicine like Lotrim AF to treat the diaper yeast infection. Using antifungal cream, soaking the baby in warm, clean water two times a day and frequent diaper changes will usually clear up a yeast infection in a few days. Make sure the baby's diapers are loose enough to let air in.
Some holistic medical practitioners advocate the use of a diaper crème containing tea tree oil to help clear diaper yeast infections. Others recommend using aloe pressing damp chamomile teabags directly on the rash. If the yeast persists for more than a week or if your baby has fever or chills you should call the pediatrician.
A yeast rash in babies is caused by the same culprits as yeast infections in adults. Because yeast thrives in wet environments babies who sit around in wet diapers for extended periods have a greater chance of getting a diaper yeast infection. When your baby is on antibiotics for a bacterial infection he is more susceptible to yeast infections because antibiotics can kill useful bacterium that helps fight yeast. A baby with a weak immune system is also at higher risk for diaper yeast infections and other types of infections.
If your baby has been suffering from a rash and regular diaper cream is not helping then you should talk to your doctor about a treatment for diaper yeast infection. Regular diaper cream is not antifungal therefore will not cure yeast.
Glossary
Antifungal cream: Creams that are used to treat and cure yeast infections
