Constant worry, mum brain, being compared to others, and not being prepared for the reality of nappy rash are just some of the concerns cited in a recent study as the most surprising and irritating aspects of parenting.
The research, carried out by Irish brand WaterWipes®, the number one wipe against nappy rash, also revealed that a staggering 95 per cent of parents said their baby experienced nappy rash with over 40 per cent going on to say that they were worried their baby was in pain or distress.
Furthermore, when asked about how it made them feel, almost half (40 per cent ) were worried their baby was in pain or distress and worried about their skin, and a fifth (23 per cent ) felt like a bad parent.
The new parenting research follows a recent independent clinical study by the University of Salford, which revealed WaterWipes® to be clinically proven to be the number one wipes against nappy rash.
Not surprisingly, when it comes to baby ailments, the top concerns or ‘pain in the bums’ for Irish parents are nappy rash, ranking second at 40 per cent just slightly below teething (49 per cent ). The study of 500 parents of babies aged 0-2, also highlighted that 23 per cent of parents are in constant fear of getting it wrong, with a fifth (20 per cent ) of mums surprised to discover ‘mum brain’ is real.
Other frustrating parenting moments highlighted included being woken up in the middle of the night (32 per cent ), when their baby had a poo-nami when they were out and about (25 per cent ), and nearly a quarter (24 per cent ) stated that it was when their baby was sick on themselves after an outfit change.
Competitive or interfering parents were the cause of other ‘pain in the bum’ moments. These included: parents diagnosing your baby (39 per cent ), eg, they must be tired or hungry, parents comparing your baby to other babies (35 per cent ), other parents sharing unwanted advice (34 per cent ), other parents showing their ‘perfect’ baby on social media (31 per cent ), and unrealistic and boastful celebrity parents (28 per cent ).
Commenting on the findings, GP and mum, Dr Laura Lenihan, said that most babies would suffer some version of nappy rash.
“It is important for parents not to get upset or to feel guilty. I know this can be challenging when trying to juggle all aspects of family life. I was not surprised that the recent WaterWipes® research revealed that 28 per cent of parents felt upset when their baby had nappy rash, and 24 per cent felt guilty.
“I know as a mum and GP I also felt the same. For many years now, I have used WaterWipes when changing or cleansing my three children. There are several signs to look out for if you suspect your baby may be suffering from nappy rash. These include red or sore skin, spots, blisters, or pimples can appear around the area, and the skin can at times can be hot to the touch. However, it is important that you contact your GP or public health nurse if you have any concerns,” Dr Lenihan stated.
Other interesting statistics uncovered as part of the study highlighted that 23 per cent of Irish parents say they constantly check on their baby while they are asleep.
Nearly a quarter (24 per cent ) went on to say they are not able to find the time to have a shower by themselves, and 19 per cent go out without taking one.
Finally, 22 per cent surveyed say they have less time to spend/be intimate with their partner.
