Newborn Jaundice: Diagnosis and Treatment Guide

Newborn jaundice is very common, occurring in approximately 60% of full-term babies and 80% of preterm infants. A yellow pigment called bilirubin builds up in the blood, giving the skin and whites of the eyes a yellowish appearance. It is usually harmless, but in some cases it requires treatment.

Physiological jaundice: Begins 2-4 days after birth and resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks. The baby's liver is not yet mature, so bilirubin is excreted slowly. This is the most common type and usually requires no treatment if feeding is going well.

Pathological jaundice: Jaundice that begins within the first 24 hours, progresses rapidly, or lasts longer than 2 weeks needs attention. Causes include blood group incompatibility (Rh, ABO), infection, or liver problems. A medical evaluation is essential in these cases.

When to seek emergency care: Go to the hospital immediately if the baby is excessively sleepy and hard to wake, refuses to feed, has body stiffening or high-pitched crying, jaundice spreading to palms and soles, or jaundice appearing in the first 24 hours. Untreated high bilirubin can rarely cause brain damage (kernicterus).

Diagnosis and treatment: The doctor measures bilirubin transcutaneously or via blood test. If above the threshold, phototherapy (blue light treatment) is applied. The baby is placed under special lights for a set time with eyes protected. In severe cases, exchange transfusion may be needed.

Home care recommendations: Frequent breastfeeding (8-12 times in 24 hours) accelerates bowel movement and helps eliminate bilirubin from the body rapidly through stool. Inadequate feeding worsens jaundice. "Sun exposure" is an outdated recommendation — AAP no longer recommends direct sunlight due to UV risk and limited efficacy.

Dear mom, newborn jaundice is most often a normal process. Watch your baby's color daily, monitor feeding and bowel movements. Reach out to your pediatrician anytime you are worried — being sure is always better.