With all of our sons, my husband and I decided to circumcise. Within a month of our first baby boy’s circumcision, we noted it just didn’t look quite right. Less of the head of the penis appeared visible than we expected, and when the remaining foreskin was pulled back the edges of the head could not be seen. After further research and a pediatrician visit, we found our son had a penile adhesion.
What is a penile adhesion?
A penile adhesion occurs when the remaining foreskin after a circumcision reattaches to the glans or head of the penis. Penile adhesions vary in severity and can be located anywhere around the glans. If you gently pull back the skin of a baby’s penis that has a penile adhesion you can see skin sticking to the edge of the head in locations or may not be able to see the edge of the head at all. Remember that a circumcised penis should resemble a mushroom. If it doesn’t, your baby may have an adhesion.
Can penile adhesions be prevented?
In my first son’s case, he was born with an unusual amount of foreskin, so after his circumcision more than usual remained. I was told simply to place Vaseline on the diaper to prevent sticking and allow it to heal. What I was not told is after healing the remaining foreskin should be gently pulled back during diaper changes and baths until 18 months of age to prevent infant penile adhesion. Not only can this process greatly reduce the risk of penile adhesion, but many parents find it to be cleaner. It’s a misconception that a circumcised penis requires no care. Even a circumcised infant will form smegma, or a white substance in the folds of skin around the penis, under the penis itself, and under the remaining foreskin. Choosing not to circumcise will also not prevent the chance of adhesion. Both circumcised and uncircumcised boys suffer adhesion.
It should be noted even with regular retraction of the remaining foreskin infant penile adhesions can still form. With my second baby boy, I was more versed in how to care for an infant circumcision and my baby still developed minor adhesions, yet my third son had no issues.
How are penile adhesions treated?
Expert opinions on how infant penile adhesion should be treated vary. Some feel that the adhesion should be gently pulled free in an office visit to prevent the need for surgery later. Others feel most penile adhesions resolve themselves by the time the baby turns five. Studies currently support the later of the two opinions finding that of the 71 percent of infants that had penile adhesions shortly after birth, only 28 percent still had adhesions by age 5, 8 percent by age nine, and 2 percent beyond this.
It’s recommended that all infant penile adhesions be evaluated by a pediatrician. While some adhesions will indeed resolve themselves, others will not. A medical professional is the best person to make this determination. With my first son, we opted to have the manual retraction. A numbing agent was placed on his penis, and then an hour later his doctor gently pulled the attached skin free. He had some redness for a day or so, but didn’t even cry. The skin did reattach again. It’s not uncommon for a baby that has had a penile adhesion to experience a reoccurrence of penile adhesions. We had the skin unattached a second time, and kept Vaseline between the remaining foreskin and the head this time until redness faded entirely. The adhesion has not returned.
In our second son, the adhesion was less severe. A pediatrician, in this case, recommended either leaving it alone or slow detachment. This should be done at the tail end of a bath. The bath will help soften the tissue. Place one thumb below the adhesion and another on the glans or head of the penis. Then you simply gently push in opposite directions. After a few baths, many adhesions are resolved. You can ask your pediatrician how to do this, and whether or not it is a good idea in your particular case.
In rare cases, penile adhesions exceed the fifth year of life. In these cases, surgery is usually recommended.
There’s a great deal of debate between cloth diaper and disposable diapers advocates. As a mother who has made the personal choice to use disposable diapers I was a bit insulted when cloth-using parents suggested I was harming my baby’s health. I set out to make this an unbiased look at the health issues associated with diapers, however when you look at the disposable-cloth diaper debate most the stones are thrown at one side. This article will still be an unbiased look. It will still present the actual studied, confirmed facts on each claim made, unfortunately since most the claims are made from the cloth diaper side it may seem as if this article is biased and defending disposable diapers. On the contrary this article is meant to remove propaganda and fear tactics and provide parents with the facts so they can decide which type of diapers to use on their own based on those facts alone without being convinced a decision based on personal preference could negatively affect their baby’s health, whichever diaper that decision leads them to.
Health risk claims for Cloth and Disposable Diapers:
Health risk claim: Disposable diapers contain dioxin.
This health risk claim does contain some truth. It is not untrue that disposable diapers contain trace amounts of dioxin. Dioxin is a toxin produced during the paper-bleaching process that can have negative effects on reproductive, developmental, and immune function as well as increases the risk of cancer. The usually unmentioned truth to this disposable diaper health risk is that dioxin is present in a great deal of sanitary items such as tampons and upwards of 95% of human exposure is through food not diapers, tampons, or other items containing trace amounts. Furthermore studies performed on cotton cloth diapers produced even higher trace levels of dioxin than disposables. In the end, levels in both cases were not significant enough to contribute to dioxin exposure or to create long-term health effects.
Health risk claim: Disposable diapers contain Tributyltin (TBT).
Tributyltin was found in the year 2000 in Pampers Baby Dry, Paul Hartmann Company’s Fixies Ultra Dry, and Ledysan Spa’s United Colours of Benetton Junior unisex disposable diapers. No other brands are known or mentioned to contain tributyln which is a hormonal pollutant that can cause health issues in humans. In 2001, the Institute of Textile Technology reported that there were no health risks to babies from levels of tributyltin present in these brands.
Health risk claim: Disposable diapers contain sodium polyacrylate. Sodium polyacrylate is a type of super-absorbent polymer (the gel like substance you may see in a disposable diaper when extremely wet) used to make disposable diapers hold more liquid without leaking. Sodium polyacrylate was previous removed from tampons due to causing a bacterial illness called toxic shock syndrome. However, toxic shock syndrome was caused by sodium polyacrylate being placed within the body for extended time periods. External exposure such as that in diapers is not known to cause any health issues. This is because toxic shock could be prevented even in tampon use with regular replacement. Sodium Polyacrylate simply creates a breeding ground for bacteria. As long as disposable diapers are changed soon after becoming dirty no more risk is present than with that of a cloth diaper.
Health risk claim: Disposable diapers overheat the genitals of baby boys. Studies have confirmed that higher temperatures of the scrotum can decrease sperm count and may increase the risk of testicular cancer, however studies also show that cloth diapers used with the usual protective coating created the same temperatures as disposable diapers. In both cases, these temperatures did not exceed maximum scrotal temperatures and are no worse than an adult wearing underwear and pants. The exception was in boys that had soiled themselves and were not changed quickly.
Health risk claim: Disposable diapers cause an increased occurrence of diaper rash in infants.
This is actually a disposable diaper myth, studies done in 2006 actually showed that disposables decrease the risk of diaper rash. Claims that cloth and disposables cause diaper rash at an equal rate are also unsupported. Rates of diaper rash were found as follows with the different types of diapers: cloth with plastic outer cover 60%, cellulose disposables 39%, absorbent gel disposables 29%, absorbent gel disposables with breathable covers 13%. Diaper rash percentiles for uncovered cloth diapers were not presented. Rates of diaper rash, in any case, can be reduced with frequent and prompt changing.
Health risk claim: Cloth diapers are unsanitary and can cause infections.
I was unable to find any supported sources on either side of this issue which leaves me to believe there have been none. Anyone who knows of any (actual studies I do not want cloth diaper supporting pages with no citation, etc.) please leave them in the comment section. The closest “study” found that cloth diapers after being washed properly had no more bacteria than other clothing we place on our babies every day. I am inclined to agree, however this article is about fact not belief so this claim will be left in “unknown” status.
Health risk claim: Disposable diapers cause asthma.
There was indeed a study done in 1999 that confirmed that mice showed more extreme asthma like symptoms when exposed to disposable diapers. (It should be noted cloth diapers also presented “small changes.”) Russ Rader (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Spokesman) states that these results have yet to be seen in humans. It was said the study was being sent to a toxicologist but no newer information can be found. Previous tests on torn open disposables with the inner gel layers did not produce respiratory or skin issues. The diapers were found to be safe.
It’s important that those trying to use facts to support their choice in diaper remember that finding a website that “says so” does not prove something to be true. This article makes an attempt at finding actual scientific studies and facts presented by reliable unbiased sources to support health claims against diapers. In the end, no validated health claims can be found leaving a parent’s choice in diaper to be purely personal choice once again supporting my favorite motto, “The biggest myth in parenting is that there is a right or wrong way to do it.”
I remember the day my first child got his first rash. I went to change his diaper and was frightened to find his whole body covered in odd little red dots. When the dots didn’t go away, I ended up taking him to the doctor. Once I did, I got a good case of man-do-I-feel-like-an-overly-paranoid new mom. His doctor said that baby rashes are common, and sometimes it’s hard even as a doctor to say why, but in most cases baby rashes are harmless and require no medical attention. She also said I was far from the first mom to worry over a baby rash. Now with four babies grown into kids, I’ve seen a decent amount of rashes, especially with that first baby having some super sensitive skin. I can say with all honesty I wish I had a baby rash decoder five years ago. So, I decided to make one.
Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute medical advice. If your baby has a rash accompanied by other signs of sickness, is showing signs of pain, or the rash has been present for an extended amount of time, please ignore any feelings you may have that you’ll look like a paranoid new mom and just go to the doctor.
My baby’s rash is red, itchy, scaly patches:
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Baby Eczema on the cheeks
Baby Eczema: Eczema is a skin condition that is usually genetic. Babies with eczema have a thinner outer layer of skin that allows more allergens in, resulting in patch-like pink, itchy rashes and dry scaly skin. Eczema is most common on the ankles, wrists, and back of the knees, but it can occur anywhere. Infants often get it on the cheeks as well. Minor cases can be treated with an over-the-counter moisturizer and the use of soaps/products for sensitive skin. Severe cases may require prescribed topical lotions. Baby eczema often clears up around age 5, though it can extend into adulthood.
Rare Infant Psoriasis
Psoriasis: Psoriasis is caused by skin cells maturing too quickly, causing a build-up in red, scaly, raised patches. This rash is commonly seen on the lower back, elbows, knees and scalp, but is not common in infants. Psoriasis requires medical treatment.
Ring worm
Ring worm: Ring worm is not actually caused by a worm under the skin, but by a fungus. Ring worm is highly contagious and most babies that have one spot will get more. This is why they can be mistaken for a rash. Ring worm will appear in red patches with a scaly outer ring. It can be treated with an over the counter anti-fungal. Note that jock itch and athlete’s feet are also both forms of ring worm.
My baby’s rash is just scaly skin:
Dry skin: if the area is not red, simply scaly, it’s possible your baby just has a patch of very dry skin. Try a sensitive skin moisturizer.
Eczema: Minor cases may appear as scaly patches of hardened skin. See above for more information.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap: Cradle cap is most common on the scalp, but may extend onto the face into eyebrows. It will appear as dry, scaly patches which may also have a yellow to gold crusting. Cradle cap can usually be resolved by rubbing moisturizing oil into the patches during baths and then rinsing the scales away.
My baby’s rash is red with pimple-like blisters:
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Heat Rash
Heat rash: Heat rash, sometimes called prickly heat rash, will present as numerous small red bumps which may or may not been filled with fluid. The area, or your baby’s body as a whole, may also be slightly red. This rash is caused heat as the name implies. Undress your baby and wipe him/her with a cool, wet cloth and the rash should fade over the next hour or so.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash: If the rash is in the diaper area and also involves raised and/or raw patches of skin, it’s possible your baby has diaper rash. Be sure to keep your baby’s diaper dry and apply a topical baby rash cream. If the rash persists, it may be yeast-based or from a food intolerance.
White patches in the mouth or on the tongue can be a good indication of a yeast-based rash.
Oral Thrush
These white patches are called thrush. Most infants that get yeast-based diaper rashes also get thrush and vice versa, because of this it’s recommended you see your pediatrician, especially if breast feeding. Thrush can be spread to the glands of the nipple. However, if you know it is just the rash, an over-the-counter yeast infection cream (such as Monistat) will also work.
Folliculitis: This is simply infected or clogged hair follicles. The rash would appear in pimple-like boils around the hair follicle itself. It is common in areas where clothing may rub with your baby’s skin such as the underarms and groin.
Impetigo
Impetigo: Of all the possible causes of pimple-like blisters, impetigo is usually the most severe. It may appear as a patch of bumps which form into a boil and then burst and crust over. Impetigo is highly contagious, and so spreads quickly as sores begin to ooze, but it usually begins near the mouth. In mild cases, impetigo resolves itself if the area is kept clean. In severe cases, antibiotics will be required.
Keep in mind that the common cold sore somewhat resembles impetigo and also forms blisters which burst and then form a crust. Cold sores do not require antibiotics and in cases can even come in patches, but they are highly contagious. The two are difficult to tell apart. When dealing with either issue it’s best to wash your hands thoroughly after contact and seek a medical opinion if symptoms continue for more than a week.
My baby’s rash is just white bumps:
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Large Patch of Milia
Milia: Milia is very common in babies. It appears most commonly on the face as small white bumps. These bumps are dead skin trapped within pores. They will eventually go away on their own. Milia may be just a random bump or two, or has pictured more of a patch-like area.
Infant Acne
Baby acne: If those same bumps are red, show signs of irritation, or have a bit of fluid, your baby may have acne. Acne also resolves itself. Simply keep your baby’s skin clean and leave the bumps alone.
Newborn Rash: Shortly after birth, your baby may have yellow to clear patches of bumps anywhere on the body. There also may be redness around the patches. This is called newborn rash, and its cause is unknown. It does resolve itself without care.
My baby’s rash is small red dots:
Chicken pox: The beginning stages of chicken pox present with tiny red dots. These dots then fill with fluid and burst. Chicken pox are very itchy and contagious. They are caused by a virus. In most cases, all you need to do is take steps to relieve the itching, such as oatmeal baths or calamine lotion. You should, however, make your doctor aware your child has chicken pox. Chicken pox can be quiet dangerous to adults who have not contracted the virus.
Scabies
Scabies: Scabies are a microscopic mite which can live in the skin. The rash will appear as small red bumps in patches that will itch, a lot. Scabies is usually found between the fingers or on the wrists. Scabies requires a prescription and are very contagious. A good way to check for scabies is to use a felt-tipped marker and dab the rash. If the ink bleeds into tunnel-like trails, it is likely scabies. If the ink stays in one solid dot, it’s less likely to be scabies.
Viral Rash
Viral rash: Some viruses come with a rash. These bumps usually aren’t raised and are just, little red dots. They will go away with the virus.
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My baby’s rash has raised patches:
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Hives
Hives: Hives are caused by an allergic reaction. They will be skin-colored to red raised patches which may itch. While a bath may help, hives usually resolve as the body stops reacting to the allergen. If your baby exhibits breathing difficulties or excessive swelling, immediately seek medical attention.
Hives may be alone or accompanied by small red itchy bumps, this is usually a sign of an allergic reaction. The small bumps may also be found without hives, this is more common in contact rashes from touching something that irritated the skin due to allergy or otherwise. Hives are often a sign of a more severe allergic reaction with swelling being more indicative of a possible medical emergency.
Baby drool rash: Baby drool rash is caused by irritation from moisture on the skin. It will appear as raised, red patches. Drool rash can evolve into impetigo. Keep your babies face dry to avoid drool rash.
