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Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is irritation of the skin covered by a diaper. The skin may become red, sore, bumpy or raw.

Moisture, stool, urine, friction and prolonged diaper contact commonly cause irritation. Yeast can also cause diaper rash, especially after antibiotics or when the skin stays warm and damp. Bacterial infection and other skin conditions can cause similar rashes.

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AAP Guide to Diaper Rash

The AAP guide below explains common diaper rashes, care at home, and when your baby needs to be seen.

AAP Symptom CheckerDiaper rash

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The rash is severe, spreading, blistering or bleeding.
  • The rash does not improve with basic diaper care.
  • Your baby has fever, pus, open sores or increasing pain.
  • A very young newborn develops a concerning diaper-area rash.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your baby appears very ill or has rapidly spreading skin damage.
  • Your baby is very difficult to wake or has another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms