In short
Around 80% of babies born in Malaysia develop jaundice. How to tell physiological from pathological jaundice, what the readings mean, and what breastfeeding mothers should avoid.
Is jaundice normal in newborns?
Jaundice is very common in babies born in Malaysia, affecting about 80% of newborns. A newborn’s liver is still developing and can’t break down bilirubin quickly enough, so bilirubin builds up in the skin and the whites of the eyes, turning them yellow.
Physiological jaundice
Usually appears 2 to 5 days after birth. The reading rises, then slowly falls back to a safe level after day 10.
- What to do: Have the level checked at a clinic. Below 14 mg/dl is mild jaundice; frequent feeding and plenty of wet and dirty diapers help the body clear it without special treatment.
- Note: If the reading is too high, or the jaundice hasn’t cleared after two weeks, see a paediatrician straight away.
Pathological jaundice
Usually appears within 24 hours of birth. Watch closely if a yellow baby is also very sleepy, doesn’t want to feed, has dark urine or pale stools.
- What to do: Have the level checked at a clinic. Above 17 mg/dl needs phototherapy by a doctor; the light turns bilirubin into a form the body passes out in urine.
Breast milk jaundice
- Early onset: Mild jaundice around 3 to 4 days after breastfeeding starts (once haemolysis and other conditions are ruled out).
- Late onset: Appears later, often just as physiological jaundice is fading, then gets worse again. It usually shows 10 to 14 days after birth and can last 2 to 3 months. Apart from the yellow colour, baby is otherwise well.
What should a breastfeeding mother avoid?
Once a newborn has jaundice, breastfeeding mothers should cut back on ginger, alcohol (including wine-cooked dishes) and eggs for a while. Mild, gentle foods help the jaundice clear.
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Health note. This article is general information. Always follow the advice of your own doctor or midwife.
