Infections To Watch For

Help your baby avoid infections.

Yeast infection Yeast thrives in warm, moist areas, so where better than a diaper? You'll know it's yeast--and not a diaper rash--if the scaly, red or pus-filled bumps aren't gone after a few days of using a diaper cream, such as Balmex, and letting your baby's bottom air out by fastening diapers loosely and forgoing them when possible. Topical over-the-counter anti-fungal medications, such as Monistat, treat the infection, but it's best to call your pediatrician for guidance.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) Usually, the only symptom of a UTI is unexplained fever, so it's important to call your doctor if your baby has a rectal temperature of 100.5 * F or higher. UTIs, which are caused by bacteria in the urinary tract, are easily cured with antibiotics; left untreated, however, the infection can lead to kidney damage. Help prevent UTIs by making sure your baby is drinking enough (only breast milk or formula is needed during the first six months) and, if you have a girl, always wiping from front to back during diaper changes.