Question

My baby has recently been having fewer bowel movements, with a red and swollen bottom, crying intensely during bowel movements, and also crying suddenly during sleep. What was the past treatment experience and effectiveness? What should I do to keep my baby from crying?

Answer

When a baby cries, it usually indicates discomfort. If the baby’s bottom is red and swollen, it may be a diaper rash, commonly known as “red bottom.” Diaper rash often occurs due to the baby’s skin being in contact with moisture and heat for an extended period in a wet diaper. To prevent the baby from crying, you can take the following steps:

  1. After each bowel movement, clean the baby’s bottom with warm water or 4% boric acid solution, then gently pat dry with a clean soft cloth, avoiding rubbing.
  2. Avoid using soap to clean, as this can reduce irritation to sensitive skin.
  3. After washing, apply talcum powder or diaper rash cream to keep the skin dry.
  4. When the weather is suitable or there are indoor conditions, expose the baby’s bottom to air or sunlight for 10-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day, to help the red bottom recover.
  5. Change diapers or disposable nappies frequently to keep the skin dry. Generally, no medication is needed for the baby. Just by doing the above regional care and strengthening daily care, diaper rash usually improves within 1-2 days.