Skin infections
During the first 3 months or so after the birth, most babies will develop various types of skin rashes. These are usually a combination of normal physiological responses by the baby experiencing hormonal changes after the birth, as well as suddenly being exposed to the many different substances (air, clothes, detergents) and temperature changes outside of their mother's uterus.
Skin rashes can appear in summer or winter, and last for days or weeks. They can seem to be constantly present, or appear one morning, and then be gone the next, possibly reappearing at a later time. If different rashes appear together (which they generally do) it can cause many parents (and others) some degree of concern, especially regarding their baby's comfort, and if it is related to any health problems. However, most rashes in the early months do not require any treatment, and will not improve by changing your diet (if breastfeeding), or changing formulas (if bottle feeding). They are also not caused as a result of your baby's crying or sleeping patterns.
Rashes after about 3 months of age can be caused by parts of the baby's skin being in prolonged contact with urine, bowel motions, saliva or sweat. However, extended skin rashes (especially covering large parts of the baby's body) may also be related to a medical condition. If you are concerned about your baby's rash, see you local doctor, or
early childhood nurse.
Some of the more common rashes in the early months are:
Toxic erythema. In the first few days after the birth, it is common for babies to experience a rash called 'urticaria of the newborn' or 'toxic erythema'. This rash looks a little like small mosquito bites, with some having yellow-white pustules (or 'white heads'). They are usually on the baby's body, but can also appear on their face, arms and legs. The spots come and go (over a period of hours), and do not worry the baby, with no need to treat them.