What is newborn jaundice?
Jaundice is common in newborn babies. It causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to look yellow because of a substance called bilirubin. In many babies, bilirubin rises during the first few days of life and then gradually falls as the baby’s body processes it.
Is jaundice normal in newborn babies?
Jaundice can be part of the normal transition after birth, but it should not simply be assumed to be harmless. The baby’s age, how jaundice is progressing, feeding, hydration, general behavior and bilirubin level all matter.
A baby who is feeding well and otherwise appears well may still need bilirubin assessment depending on when the jaundice appeared and how significant it is.
When does newborn jaundice usually appear?
Jaundice that becomes noticeable during the first few days after birth is common. However, jaundice that is noticed very early, is becoming deeper or more extensive, or persists longer than expected should be discussed with a pediatrician.
How can parents tell if their baby is becoming jaundiced?
Jaundice may first be noticed in the face and can become more visible on the body as bilirubin levels rise. Looking at the baby’s skin in natural light can make color changes easier to notice.
Skin color alone cannot tell you how high the bilirubin level is. If jaundice is suspected, a healthcare professional may recommend bilirubin measurement and assessment of the baby.
What should parents watch for?
- Jaundice that seems to be becoming more pronounced or spreading.
- Poor feeding or difficulty waking the baby for feeds.
- Fewer wet nappies or other concerns about hydration.
- Unusual sleepiness or a baby who is difficult to wake.
- A baby who appears unwell or behaves differently from usual.
- Jaundice that appears very early after birth or persists and needs further assessment.
When should I contact a pediatrician promptly?
Parents should seek prompt medical assessment if a newborn with jaundice is feeding poorly, is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, has fewer wet nappies, appears unwell, or if the jaundice is becoming more noticeable or appeared very early.
Do not rely on the color of the skin alone to decide whether jaundice needs treatment. A pediatrician can assess the baby’s age, feeding, examination findings and bilirubin level and decide what follow-up is appropriate.
What about feeding?
Feeding is an important part of assessing a jaundiced newborn. Babies need adequate feeding and hydration while bilirubin is being monitored. If feeding is difficult or you are worried that your baby is not taking enough milk, ask for help rather than waiting for the jaundice to settle on its own.
Does every baby with jaundice need treatment?
No. Management depends on the baby’s age, bilirubin level, gestational age and other clinical factors. Some babies only need observation and follow-up, while others may require treatment. The decision should be made after appropriate assessment rather than from the baby’s skin color alone.
A reassuring message for parents
Newborn jaundice is common, but parents do not need to work out its severity by themselves. If you are unsure whether your baby’s jaundice is normal, getting the baby assessed is the safest way to clarify what is needed.
Related reading
- Newborn & Baby Care
- Breastfeeding Basics: Getting Started and Common Challenges
- My Baby Won’t Stop Crying: What’s Normal and When to Worry
This information is for general guidance and does not diagnose an individual baby. If your newborn appears unwell or you are concerned about jaundice, feeding or responsiveness, seek prompt medical advice.