There is no denying the fact that diapers make life extremely convenient for parents. Many parents find it convenient to use absorbent diapers instead of cotton diapers. because the urine is absorbed So it can continue to be used even after the baby urinates. However, if the baby defecates, the diaper must be changed immediately. Prolonged exposure to diaper urine or faeces can irritate the skin (contact dermatitis). Babies can develop what is known as an ‘Ammoniacal rash’. Moist skin is also susceptible to fungal infections.
Health Shots reached out to Dr. Sankalp Dudeja, consultant neonatal and pediatrician at Cloudnine Group Hospitals in Gurgaon, to understand the side effects of dirty diapers for babies.
Why should you change dirty diapers in your baby?
Recent data discovered by scientists proves that the intestinal microbiome plays an important role in the onset of chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes and ADHD in later infants. A recent study published in Nature Microbiology confirmed that a baby’s gut is infected with 10,000 viral strains, ten times the number of bacteria found in an average child. increased risk of other diseases in infants
Experts share that “fungi such as Candida can infect moist areas of the skin. And these rashes need medicated creams. (anti-fungal) according to some studies Being in dirty diapers also increases your risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bacteria present in the stool can ascend into the urinary tract from diapers and can cause UTIs. girl because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus than boys.”
Other risks associated with prolonged diaper use
The responsibility for a child’s well-being lies with the parents. Diapers make life smooth for parents. However, they come with their drawbacks. In addition to the negative effects mentioned above. Prolonged use of dirty diapers may have the following side effects:
1. Diapers Can Cause Allergies
The baby’s skin is soft and tender. and any harsh chemicals can damage their skin. Some companies make diapers using synthetic products, dyes or other harsh chemicals. These are all bad for baby’s delicate skin and can cause allergic reactions.
Read more: Newborn baby’s skin is sensitive! Stay healthy with these 5 tips.
2. Can cause skin rashes
Diaper rash is the result of prolonged diaper use. If a dirty diaper is left unattended for a long time This can become a breeding ground for bacteria and cause rashes. Change diapers regularly to reduce the risk of nappy rash.
3. The diaper area is poisonous, causing various diseases.
as mentioned above Diapers are made from chemicals and synthetic materials. And leaving your baby in contact with such materials for a long time leads to toxicity. if used for a long time Diaper holders are unhygienic and there is a high chance that these toxins will enter the baby’s system leading to chronic diseases later on.
Parents should be more mindful of their child’s health and buyer awareness when choosing diapers for their baby by looking at the materials used and changing diapers regularly.
