Strange Scent from My Baby
My little girl is 6 months old, measuring 27 inches tall and weighing 19 pounds and 4 ounces. Thankfully, she’s not on any medication at the moment. I have a somewhat peculiar inquiry. A couple of days ago, she had a diaper that emitted a corn-like odor, which was an unusual occurrence in the middle of the day. Prior to that, I hadn’t introduced any solid foods in her diet for two days. On the same day as that odd diaper, I started her on tofu for the very first time. Things took another turn yesterday when I noticed a stronger corn scent, this time faintly coming from her mouth, alongside the consistent corn-smelling diapers. She consumed tofu again yesterday, and despite having no solids today, the scent seems to be coming from her skin as well. I’m curious if anyone else has encountered something similar? She hasn’t exhibited any health problems, displays no signs of discomfort, and is eating normally. Two of her teeth are emerging, with the first one breaking through on August 3rd. Recently, she’s been sleeping more than usual, but I’ve attributed this change to her rapid development milestones. One thing to mention is that she has been dealing with a yeast infection for the past month. She was prescribed hydrocortisone and Nystatin, but during a follow-up last week, the pediatrician basically suggested that we just manage the yeast infection since it’s likely to persist while she’s still in diapers. Fortunately, the rash didn’t seem too severe, so they assured me she would be alright. Despite knowing the previous prescription wasn’t effective, the doctor issued another prescription for hydrocortisone and Nystatin along with diaper rash cream. However, the day she had the corn-smelling diaper, I made the switch to Clotrimazole. The following day, I stopped using the diaper rash cream as I felt it was exacerbating the situation and opted for Vanicream instead. She has been using Clotrimazole for three days now and Vanicream for two days, and thankfully, the yeast infection appears to be improving. That’s the update so far. Thank you for your insights!
Answers (1)
8/9/2025, 4:10:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
The unusual corn-like odor coming from your baby's diapers, mouth, and skin may be related to her recent dietary changes, particularly the introduction of tofu, along with the yeast infection she has been managing. While it’s great to hear she is otherwise healthy, it’s important to monitor changes and address your concerns.
Explanation:
- Dietary Changes: Introducing new foods, such as tofu, can alter the way a baby’s body processes certain nutrients, which may result in changes in stool odor. Tofu is a soy product, and sometimes, foods high in protein or specific carbohydrates can create unique smells.
- Yeast Infection: Since yeast infections can cause various changes in body odor, the presence of the infection along with the dietary change could be contributing to the corn-scented odor you're noticing. The ongoing management of the yeast with medication like Clotrimazole can help, but it may take time for her body to fully adjust and for the infection to clear.
Next Steps:
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Monitor: Keep an eye on her symptoms—track any changes in her stool patterns, appetite, or any other noticeable odors. If the scent persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as unusual fussiness, changes in feeding, or rash worsening, this may require further assessment.
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Diet Observations: Consider temporarily eliminating tofu and other new solid foods from her diet to see if the odor subsides. Reintroduce foods one at a time after a few days to identify if a particular food is causing the issue.
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Maintain Hygiene: Continue to manage her yeast infection with the prescribed Clotrimazole and follow good hygiene practices—keep her diaper area clean and dry, and allow some diaper-free time to promote healing.
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Consult Pediatrician: If the corn smell continues or intensifies, or you have any new concerns (like signs of discomfort), reach out to your pediatrician for tailored advice. It may also be helpful to discuss the current management of her yeast infection and any lingering concerns with her diet.
These steps should help you support your baby while addressing your observations and concerns. Please reach out with any more updates or questions!
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