Every parent with a baby goes through this at some point – the crying, screaming, drooling and chewing associated with teething. It’s no wonder a baby cries and screams when teething happens; it’s pretty darn painful when that tough bit of calcium forces its way through those tender gums! One unfortunate side effect of teething is a horrible diaper rash. When baby has a diaper rash, it’s important to treat it with care. Extra care should be used if it accompanies a teething period.

There’s a lot of speculation as to why a diaper rash happens when a baby is teething.

One reason why a baby may have diaper rashes while teething is because the excessive saliva from teething goes into the baby’s stomach, somehow or another causing the rash.

Another reason why there might be a rash during teething is because of yeast. When a baby is teething, his body is putting out more yeast. This will cause a very bad diaper rash. If this is the case, a prescription cream is helpful. Also helpful is applying a cornstarch powder to the dried bottom of the baby. Next, apply a layer of Desitin then a layer of Vaseline.

The urine itself may be the reason why a rash develops during teething. At this point in time, the baby’s urine becomes stronger, irritating the skin.

Another theory is that teething results in diarrhea, which therefore causes the rash. If the baby does have a bad case of diarrhea, it’s especially important to consult with a pediatrician right away.

One thing the parent can do when the baby is teething and has a diaper rash is to provide lots of baths. You don’t need to use soap for every bath, however – a very mild, all-natural soap is recommended if needed. If it’s okay with the doctor, add a little baking soda or corn starch to the bath water. Baking soda or corn starch baths do wonders for diaper rashes.

After the bath, try to allow the area with a rash to air out instead of drying it with a towel. The skin is extremely sensitive and the less you touch it, the better. Lay the baby on a thick towel or waterproof mat to avoid any messes.

If it’s all right with your pediatrician, give the baby Infant Acetaminophen or Infant Ibuprofen. (Some doctors prefer Ibuprofen over Acetaminophen.) The pediatrician may prescribe special ointments or pain relievers for the baby.

When using a diaper, never apply talcum powder to the rash. Keep the diaper as clean as possible. Change the baby’s diaper every few hours to avoid further discomfort.

Switch to cloth diapers, if at all possible. If not, then try to find a brand of diaper that has as few chemicals as possible. Especially watch out for bleach in a commercial brand diaper.

Instead of using diaper wipes, use a wash cloth dipped in warm water. Commercial diaper wipes can be extremely irritating to a baby’s skin at this time. If nothing else, rinse them out with water before using them on the baby. Do not wipe the rash area; be sure to blot only where necessary.

Finally, use milk of magnesia. Dab it on the rash area with a cotton ball, let it dry, then reapply. Do this with a diaper or towel under the baby in case they go to the bathroom during the process.

Meanwhile, take care of the teething problem, as well. Some parents suggest letting the baby chew on a bag of frozen peas or a cool teether ring. Many parents have kept teether rings in the freezer, since the ice cold offers comfort from the pain. However, this is dangerous, as the teether can crack open and leak into the baby’s mouth. Instead, keep it in the refrigerator.

Gently apply a teething ointment to the gums to soothe the teething pain.

Regardless of the reason behind why a diaper rash happens while a baby is teething, always check with the pediatrician about caring for the baby. Both episodes can be uncomfortable for both parent and baby but this, too, will pass.