Perianal Strep in Babies: What It Is and How It's Treated Effectively

Perianal strep is a type of infection that may cause significant discomfort for your baby, specifically, in the diaper area. It’s necessary to understand what perianal strep is, its causes, how it differs from an ordinary diaper rash, and what steps you can take so that your child receives the appropriate care. This article will guide you through the basics and help you know when to reach out to your little one's healthcare provider.

What Is Perianal Dermatitis?

Perianal dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin around the anus, which may affect infants and young children. The condition often appears as a red, inflamed ring surrounding the anus and may cause significant discomfort for your little one. This irritation may be caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, friction from diapers, or contact with stool and urine, which may break down the delicate skin.

In most cases, perianal dermatitis develops due to a bacterial infection, specifically an infection caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacterium, the same type of bacteria responsible for strep throat. When this bacterium infects the skin around the anus, it leads to what is commonly referred to as perianal strep, perianal streptococcal dermatitis, or perianal streptococcal cellulitis. This condition is distinct from other causes of diaper rash due to the underlying bacterial infection, which often requires more targeted treatment from your little one’s healthcare provider.

More than 80% of cases are boys ≤7.0 years of age with defecation disorders, perianal pain, local itch, rectal bleeding, or fissure and a sharply demarcated perianal redness.

Source: Gualtieri et al., 2021

Is Perianal Strep Contagious?

When it comes to perianal strep, one of the common concerns for parents is whether this condition is contagious. It is particularly contagious since it is caused by Group A Strep bacteria and spreads from person to person, primarily through close touch or contact with contaminated objects. However, it's important to note that while it’s contagious, the likelihood of spreading perianal strep specifically depends on several factors, including the hygiene practices in place and the overall health of those around the infected baby. Good hygiene, such as properly washing hands after diaper changes and keeping shared surfaces or items clean, is necessary for healing. This may also help to reduce the chance of transmitting the perianal rash to others.

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Perianal Strep Symptoms

Perianal strep usually shows up as a bright red ring around your baby’s anus. This redness might be more intense and specific compared to a typical diaper rash as well as how it’s treated. Your little one may also feel pain, especially during bowel movements, making diaper changes more uncomfortable. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to reach out to your baby’s healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying whether your little one has perianal strep or diaper rash can be crucial for effective treatment. Our chart helps clarify their differences, so you can address the perianal strep infection or diaper rash with the right approach.

Perianal Strep Treatment

Since perianal strep is a bacterial infection, it is often treated with prescribed antibiotics. Combined with the treatment, keeping the area clean and dry is key to soothing irritation and promoting healing. During treatment, change diapers frequently and use gentle, fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes or warm water for cleaning to help keep the area clean without additional irritation. Options such as Pampers Sensitive Wipes or Pampers Aqua Pure Wipes may be gentler on sensitive skin during diaper changes.

Applying a barrier cream may also help protect the skin and aid in recovery. Also, avoid using over-the-counter antibiotic ointment for diaper rashes as some of the ingredients may worsen and cause further skin irritation.

When Should You Contact a Health Provider

If you notice a bright red rash around your baby’s anus that does not go away with the usual diaper rash treatment, or if your little one is in pain during stools, contact their healthcare provider immediately. Also, contact them if the rash spreads, worsens, or is accompanied by a fever. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to manage perianal strep effectively and prevent complications.

Recurrences occur within 3½ months in about 20% of cases.

Source: Gualtieri et al., 2021

The Bottom Line

When it comes to your little one’s skin health, recognizing and treating perianal strep is crucial. This bacterial infection shows up as a bright red, painful rash around your baby’s anus and requires treatment with antibiotics. If you notice these symptoms or if a rash isn’t improving, it’s important to contact their healthcare provider. Early treatment not only ensures your baby’s comfort but also helps prevent the infection from spreading.

Keeping your little one’s diaper area clean and dry is key to preventing irritation and infections. For additional support in your diapering routine, consider downloading the Pampers Rewards app. The app offers discounts and digital offers that can help you save on the products you trust.

Last Medically Reviewed:

February 17th, 2025