Step by Step Spica Diaper Changes

Diaper changes are one of the hardest parts of spica casts. They are time-consuming and require a lot of supplies. It took my husband and I a few weeks to really get the hang of changing Willow’s diaper. To make sure you have all of the right supplies check out my post about all of the equipment you will need.

The first step in changing a spica diaper is to take 6 of the small diapers that have been cut and taped off. Face the absorbent side out. Then wrap the diapers around the edge of the spica cast opening. Take strips of the paper tape to secure the edges of the diaper to the cast. Make sure the edges of the diapers overlap so that any leaks will be quickly absorbed before getting into the cast. Willow’s cast fitted 2 half diapers on each side, 1 in the front, and 1 in the back.

Once the small diapers are in place, grab the pad and remove the sticker cover. Tuck the pad into the front of the cast as far up as you can. Then bring the pad around the back and tuck it into the back of the cast. Make sure the edges of the pad are tucked into the cast as well.

Now take the bigger diaper and remove the velcro pieces. Those pieces could really irritate the babies skin, so don’t forget this step! Then take the diaper and tuck it up around the pad. Again make sure all the edges are tucked in really well.

The last step is to take the largest diaper and put it over the cast just like a regular diaper. This helps ensure everything will stay in place! This diaper can be reused because it almost always stays clean due to all of the other layers.

This process can be daunting but when done correctly it prevents leaks! With our daughter, we only had 1 leak during the entire 3 months of casts. I fully believe it was all of these steps and supplies that ensured a clean cast!