My one week old's buttocks are bright red and very irritated (mainly around the anus). What to do?

Hello Ma'am,

It is very rare for this type of rash to occur this early in a baby's life. Could it be that the child's bottom was rubbed at the time of the diaper change (as the first stool is usually very very difficult to get off the bottom)?

If you think the rash is related to the diaper change and trying to get the stool "off" the bottom, I recommend applying Vaseline™ (thick layer) to the bottom after each diaper change so that the stool doesn't stick to the skin.

If instead you think the rubbing has nothing to do with it, I recommend seeing a doctor this morning (or revisiting the pediatric department where you delivered) to show baby's bottom and make sure there is no infection.

If after using Vaseline™ for 3 to 5 days the bum is still very red, I would recommend seeing a doctor as well.

Happy day,

Alexander