When you became a parent, and brought your Baby home, your doctor sure told you all about how to take care of the new member. However, it is also important you check your baby’s parts in good day light. After all, infections don’t just mean fever or cold! Your baby’s genitals need some care and you might REALLY be missing things under his diaper.

Here are genital issues we often fail to notice!

1.    Periods in newborns

Blood in your baby’s diaper can definitely be a reason for worry, especially if you are a first-time mommy. However, this is perfectly normal and there is nothing to panic. Blame it all on the hormones! But, if you do see your baby restless, crying, develop temperature, or spot blood in your baby’s stools, it’s time you headed to your doctor.

2.    Thrush

This is yet another infection Common in newborns. It often starts off with a rash in the oral cavity and then heads all the way down to the baby’s genitals, especially around the anus. The infection typically goes back and forth between the mother and the baby. While in babies it spreads in the area surrounding the anus and the genital folds, in mommies it affects the nipple and can cause pain during breastfeeding.

Mothers and babies with this infection require antifungal treatment. Also, in case you are expressing milk and feeding your baby, make sure you don’t freeze it, as if you feed this milk to her later, the infection might recur. Washing your hands before and after breastfeeding and washing your nursing bras separately can also make a huge difference. The baby might need some relief for the nappy rash.

3.     Swelling in the scrotum

In infants, you might notice intermittent swelling in the scrotum. This might be because of hernia. At times, the testes are felt besides the pelvis. However, it is common for the testes to go up and down in infants. If you feel one scrotum is bigger than the other or is slightly swollen, it could be because of many reasons. One of the most common reasons is hydrocoele where the testis swells because of a collection of fluids in its protective covering. Whatever be the reason, make sure you consult your doctor without any delay.

4.     Swelling or infection on the head of the penis

Swelling, infection or redness on the head of the penis is common in infants and is caused mainly due to poor hygiene. At times, this might also be accompanied by fever. In this case, see the doctor immediately and do not retract the foreskin. Also teach your kid about genital hygiene and also ensure you wash away all the soap from this area while bathing.

5.    Painful urination

Painful urination is a clear sign of UTI. This is a condition more common among girls, because of the short urethra. And even in babies who are not toilet trained, this is one big concern because the bacteria from the poop may travel via the urethra and cause urinary tract infection. It may often be accompanied by a dragging sensation in the umbilicus, pain during peeing, and fever. See a doctor immediately for further treatment and also ensure you don’t leave soiled diapers on for a long time.

Mommies, your little baby is going to go through a whole lot of changes while growing up. Do, it is advisable you examine your kid’s privates every day, while bathing or changing his clothes or diaper. And if your instinct says things aren’t alright, see the doctor immediately!

Feature image source: blog.owletcare.com