You have finished viewing your e-Prescription!
Take a Course
or
Close

{{{stage.title}}}
The Portland Hospital

Dedicated to the Healthcare needs of women, children and their families.
{{ ellipsisText }}

Post-natal 5 - Unwell baby

Jaundice

Jaundice is the name given to the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Jaundice in new-born babies is very common. Usually it is harmless and clears up by itself after approximately 10-14 days.
In Short
Jaundice is caused by too much of a yellow pigment called ‘bilirubin’ in the blood. Bilirubin is a chemical made when red blood cells are broken down – this is a normal process in new-borns. It is normally passed out of the body in the urine (wee) and stools (poo).

How should I check my baby for jaundice?

It is important that you check your baby for jaundice, particularly during their first week of life. It is best to check them in bright natural light when changing your baby’s nappy or clothes. Here are a few pointers to help you:

  • Check if your baby’s skin looks yellow. The yellow colour usually starts on the face and forehead and then spreads to the body, arms and legs
  • See if the whites of your baby’s eyes look yellow
  • Look at the gums and roof of your baby’s mouth for the yellow colour. The best time to do this is when your baby’s mouth is open wide (i.e. when he or she is yawning or crying)
  • From time-to-time, gently press your baby’s skin to see if you can see a yellow tinge. If you are unsure about checking your baby for jaundice, ask your midwife to show you how. Your midwife and doctor will look for signs of jaundice each time they examine your baby.

What should I do if I think my baby has jaundice?

For most babies, jaundice is mild and harmless and clears by itself. However, it
is important that you tell your midwife or doctor if you notice your baby is jaundiced:

• Urgently – if it happens in the first 24 hours

after birth (as it could be a sign of another medical problem)

• The same day you notice it – if your baby is more than 24 hours old.

• If you are at home, you may be asked to bring your baby to the Accident and Emergency department for tests.

How will you test my baby for jaundice?

• We will test your baby in hospital in one of the following ways:

• Using a small hand-held device (bilirubinometer) that is placed on your baby’s forehead or chest

• By taking a blood sample from your baby’s heel. This test may need to be done again six to 12 hours later

What treatment will my baby be given?

Mild jaundice does not normally need any treatment. Effective feeding will help the jaundice resolve. Your midwife will give you extra advice and support with breastfeeding to make sure that your baby is feeding effectively.

If the level of bilirubin in your baby’s blood is high, we will need to readmit your baby to hospital for treatment. This is rare and only affects small numbers of babies. Your baby may be given light treatment, known as ‘phototherapy’, from a lamp that shines a special blue light onto the skin. This light helps to break down the bilirubin, which will then be passed out of your baby’s body in their urine and stools. This will be explained fully by doctors and maternity staff in hospital.

What should I do if my baby’s jaundice does not clear up?

For most babies, jaundice clears up within a few days. If your baby’s urine is dark and/ or their stools are pale and chalky, or if they have had jaundice for more than two weeks (or more than three weeks if your baby was premature), tell your midwife, health visitor or doctor. Your baby may need further tests in hospital to check for other medical problems.

If you have any concerns about your baby having jaundice please speak to your midwife, GP or come to A&E.

DISCLAIMER
This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Essential Parent has used all reasonable care in compiling the information from leading experts and institutions but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details click here.