Both can be triggered by wet or infrequently changed diapers.
This article explains the similarities and differences between a yeast infection and diaper rash.
It also explains how each condition is diagnosed so that the correct treatment is used.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Verywell / Jessica Olah
What Is a Yeast Rash?
“Candidiasis” is the term that describes a yeast infection.
It happens when a common skin fungus, typicallyCandida albicans,starts to overgrow.
Diaper rash is also known as irritant diaper dermatitis.
Irritant diaper dermatitis is because of overhydration of the skin and the trapping of moisture inside diapers.
Lab tests can be performed to confirm the suspicions, but they are usually not needed.
This can differentiate between a fungal or bacterial infection and determine whichantifungalorantibioticmedication is most appropriate.
You may help speed your childs recovery by reducing their sugar intake, as yeast feeds on sugar.
Should I Use Baby Powder?
Do not use baby powder while your baby has a diaper rash.
The powder can build up in the skin folds and hold moisture, making things worse.
Both can be prevented by changing diapers as soon as they are wet or soiled.
American Academy of Pediatrics.Common diaper rashes and treatments.
Arizona Department of Health Services.Thrush/yeast diaper rash.
Martin Lopez JE.Candidiasis (vulvovaginal).BMJ Clin Evid.
2015 Mar 16;2015:0815.
2021;7(2):79.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Diaper dermatitis.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to treat diaper rash.
Alberta Health Services (Canada).Diaper rash in children: care instructions.
Alberta Health Service (Canada).Yeast diaper rash in children: care instructions.
Blume-Peytavi U, Kanti V.Prevention and treatment of diaper dermatitis.Pediatr Dermatol.
2018 Mar:35 Suppl 1:s19-s23.
2021 Feb 18;13(2):e13407.
doi:10.7759/cureus.13407
American Academy of Pediatrics: HealthyChildren.org.Yeast infections in girls and young women.
Hanna L, Cruz SA.Candida mastitis: a case report.Perm J.
2011;15(1):62-64. doi:10.7812/tpp/10-088
