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perinatal condition

Neonatal Jaundice

ICD-10 Code: P59.9

Newborn jaundice is a yellowing of a baby's skin and eyes. It is very common (affecting about 60% of newborns) and occurs when babies have a high level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during normal breakdown of red blood cells.

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Emily Chen, Pediatrician • Updated August 2024

🩺 Understanding Neonatal Jaundice

Newborn jaundice is a yellowing of a baby's skin and eyes. It is very common (affecting about 60% of newborns) and occurs when babies have a high level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during normal breakdown of red blood cells.

🚨 Common Symptoms

  • Yellowing of the skin (starting on the face and moving downward)
  • Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
  • Poor feeding or difficulty waking for feeds
  • Dark yellow urine (should be colorless in newborns)
  • Pale-colored stools (should be yellow or green)
  • Lethargy or excessive sleepiness

💊 Treatments & Management

Frequent FeedingFeeding 8-12 times per day helps baby pass bilirubin through stool
PhototherapyBlue light therapy breaks down bilirubin in the skin — the most common treatment
Fiber Optic BlanketA portable light therapy pad that can be used at home for mild cases
Exchange TransfusionReserved for severe cases — gradually replaces baby's blood to lower bilirubin

🚩 When to Call Your OB/GYN

  • ⚠️ Baby becomes more yellow or jaundice spreads to legs/feet
  • ⚠️ Baby is hard to wake or very sleepy
  • ⚠️ Baby isn't feeding well or refuses to eat
  • ⚠️ Baby makes high-pitched cries
  • ⚠️ Jaundice appears in the first 24 hours of life (always urgent)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is jaundice in newborns dangerous?
Mild jaundice is very common and usually resolves on its own. However, very high bilirubin levels can cause a rare but serious condition called kernicterus, which is why monitoring is important.
How long does newborn jaundice last?
Physiological jaundice typically peaks at day 3-5 and resolves by 1-2 weeks. Breastfeeding jaundice may last 2-3 weeks. See your doctor if jaundice persists beyond 3 weeks.
Can I treat jaundice at home?
Mild jaundice can be managed with frequent feeding and indirect sunlight exposure. However, do NOT use direct sunlight (sunburn risk). Your doctor will determine if phototherapy is needed.
Does breastfeeding cause jaundice?
Breast milk itself doesn't cause jaundice, but insufficient milk intake in the early days can worsen it. Continue breastfeeding frequently — it actually helps clear bilirubin.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.