Caring for babies’  bottoms

Babies are prone to nappy rash and other infections, which affect their genitals, so it is important to learn about caring for your baby’s bottom. At first, changing nappies on a regular basis can be a bit of a minefield, especially if this is your first baby, but you will soon get used to it. It is important to clean your baby’s bottom thoroughly after each nappy change to reduce the risk of your baby developing irritated and sore skin.

How should I care for my baby boy’s bottom?

If your baby has been circumcised, you will need to wash the penis with water on a daily basis for the first week after the operation; at first, the head of the penis will be very sensitive so it is important to be very gentle when you are cleaning and wiping the penis. Doctors also recommend putting Vaseline petroleum jelly on the tip of the penis after every nappy change for the first five days after the operation. It can take up to ten days for the penis to heal after the circumcision operation and you may notice that the penis is swollen and slightly red during the recovery period; it is also fairly common for a yellowy secretion to come from the head of the penis.

If your baby is uncircumcised, you should gently clean their penis using a damp cloth or a baby wipe; you may wish to use hypersensitive, perfume-free wipes, as these are less likely to cause irritation. Wash your baby’s penis with gentle soap (try to avoid having baths full of bubbles as this may irritate the penile tissue) when they are having a bath and take care not to try and pull back the foreskin, as it will not be fully retractable until your child reaches the age of five. If you notice that a white substance is gathering under your baby’s foreskin, you can gently wipe this away with a cloth; this is known as smegma.

How should I care for my baby girl’s bottom?

With baby girls, the most important thing to remember is to wipe from front to back; this prevents bacteria from the anus into the vagina and will reduce the risk of infection. Take care to clean your baby’s vaginal area thoroughly during each nappy change; you can use a moist cloth or baby wipes to do this. At first, you may notice that your baby’s genital area is slightly red and inflamed; this is normal during the first few days but you should contact your health visitor or GP if symptoms persist. Try to use perfume-free, hypo-allergenic bubble bath and body wash on your baby, as this is less likely to irritate their fragile skin.

How can I prevent my baby getting nappy rash?

Nappy rash is very common and even the most cautious and conscientious parents may have to deal with nappy rash at some point. Here are some tips for reducing the risk of your baby suffering from nappy rash:

  • Change your baby’s nappy on a regular basis; it is especially important to change them quickly after they have soiled their nappy.
  • Ensure your baby is wearing the right size nappy.
  • Leave your baby without a nappy to allow their genital areas to get a bit of air now and again
  • Use gentle, perfume and alcohol free wipes on your baby.
  • Avoid giving your baby acidic foods.
  • Keep your baby’s genital area as clean as possible and be gentle.

What should I do if I notice changes in their genital area?

Nappy rash and mild irritation are very common; if you notice symptoms like these, keep your baby’s genital area very clean and consider using a cream, like Sudocrem, to ease the irritation. If you notice major changes in the appearance of the genital area or you notice blood or unpleasant smelling secretions in the nappy, arrange to see your GP. If you are worried or have any questions, do not hesitate to talk to your health visitor or arrange to see your GP.

Some babies are allergic to certain types of nappies or wipes; if you notice your baby reacting to certain products you use, change the brand of nappy or wipes you use and see how they get on with the new ones.

Caring for your newborn:

Mother, Baby and Beyond

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