Newborn Jaundice: What's Normal and When to Worry
Newborn care · 5 min read · Reviewed by the SPAN pediatric team
Most babies develop some yellowing of the skin and eyes in their first week. This is called newborn (neonatal) jaundice, and in the majority of babies it is mild and harmless. Knowing what is normal — and the few signs that need urgent attention — helps you stay calm and act at the right time.
Why do newborns get jaundice?
Jaundice happens when a yellow pigment called bilirubin builds up in the blood. Newborns make more bilirubin than adults, and their liver is still learning to clear it. This is why a mild, temporary rise is common — especially between day 2 and day 5 of life.
Breastfeeding jaundice (from not yet feeding enough in the first days) and breast-milk jaundice (a longer, mild form) are both usually harmless when the baby is feeding and growing well.
How is it checked?
A doctor or nurse assesses the colour of your baby's skin and eyes, usually in good daylight. If needed, the level is measured with a small skin device or a blood test. The result is read against your baby's age in hours and any risk factors.
How is jaundice treated?
Most babies need only frequent feeding to help flush bilirubin out. When levels are higher, phototherapy is used: the baby rests under safe blue light that changes bilirubin into a form the body can remove easily. It is painless and very effective.
In rare, severe cases other treatments may be needed. Babies who need this are monitored closely in a neonatal unit.
- Feed often — 8 to 12 times a day for newborns.
- Keep follow-up appointments in the first week.
- Never place your baby in direct sunlight to 'treat' jaundice — it is not safe or effective.
Call a doctor urgently if your baby
- Looks yellow in the first 24 hours of life
- Becomes deeply yellow, or the yellow reaches the palms and soles
- Is very sleepy, hard to wake, or feeding poorly
- Has a high-pitched cry, arching, or fever
- Still looks yellow after 2 weeks of age
Frequently asked questions
Is newborn jaundice dangerous?
Most jaundice is mild and resolves on its own. It becomes dangerous only when bilirubin rises very high and is left untreated, which is why timely checks in the first week matter.
How long does newborn jaundice last?
Typical jaundice appears around day 2–3 and fades by 1–2 weeks. Jaundice that starts in the first 24 hours or lasts beyond 2 weeks should be reviewed by a doctor.
Does phototherapy have side effects?
Phototherapy is very safe. Babies may have temporary loose stools or mild dehydration, which the team manages with feeding and monitoring.
Note: This guide is general information for parents and does not replace a consultation. For advice specific to your child, please see a doctor. In an emergency, call SPAN Hospital at +91 217 2313300.