When you bring a newborn home, you open all manner of anxieties which you never knew existed. Your usually calm mind will start reaching for weird and wonderful health problems every time you notice something new. It’ll drive you crazy if you let it, and you could soon pass that unpleasant feeling onto your baby. The fact is that babies experience all manner of physical changes in their first weeks. While you do need to act fast if there’s something wrong, it’s important not to panic at regular things.
Rashes are one big area of concern for new parents. As soon as we see a red mark, we go into meltdown. We rush to the hospital and assume there’s something wrong. In reality, though, it’s normal for a newborn to experience certain rashes in their first weeks. Most of these aren’t a serious threat and will clear up on their own.
Note that if a rash contains blisters or doesn’t lighten under pressure, it is worth seeking a medical opinion. But, here are three newborn rashes which you really needn’t act rash about.
Erythema toxicum
This rash which causes blotchy red skin occurs in the first 48-72 hours after birth and is caused by mild irritation from new surroundings. Your baby’s body is experiencing everything for the first time, remember. That can take some getting used to. Still, erythema toxicum sends many new moms into a blind panic. The good news is that this rash happens to around half of newborns. It’s so harmless that it clears up on its own after a few days. As long as those red blotches don’t have the warnings signs mentioned above, there’s really nothing to worry about.
Diaper rash
Thanks to diapers keeping damp excrement close to a baby’s skin, diaper rash is also a common occurrence. In general terms, it’s nothing to worry about. With the right creams to hand, it should clear up in no more than three days. You should only seek medical attention if the problem persists, or the rash blisters. If you’ve been through diaper rash and are keen to avoid it again, note that baby’s skin is very sensitive. Invest in creams which can keep their skin moisturized, and nappies which won’t irritate. Whatever you do, though; don’t panic!
Milia
Milia is another characteristic rash for newborns. Again, around half of babies experience this. And, again, it’s nothing to worry about. Milia is a rash which consists of little white spots on a baby’s face. They’re caused by blocked pores and are another factor of new life. Your baby’s body has a lot to get used to, remember! This rash tends to stick around longer than others mentioned, but it’s still nothing to worry about. Those spots will clear up within a month or so.
As you can see, rashes are a pretty standard part of new life. If you want to look after your baby best, avoid panic and learn to take rashes in your stride.
