Patient's question:
The newborn is 30 days old, but the red buttocks haven't healed yet. There are now ulcers. We have used erythromycin ointment and calamine lotion, but it seems to be ineffective. What should we do?Doctor's answer:
Hello! I think your baby's condition might be diaper rash, which is clinically known as diaper dermatitis. It is caused by infrequent diaper changes, being soaked in urine and feces, and the ammonia formed from feces being decomposed by bacteria, producing more ammonia that irritates the skin. Keeping the area dry can prevent this condition. Wash and change diapers frequently, and maintain cleanliness and dryness in the baby's external genital area. Choose diapers with soft and highly absorbent material. When washing, ensure the soap is thoroughly rinsed off. Apply talcum powder, zinc oxide ointment, or calamine lotion externally. For ulcers or severe erosion, use wet compresses, commonly using a 3% boric acid solution. It is best not to use disposable diapers for your baby; you can opt for highly absorbent reusable pads.