What is Jaundice?

Jaundice happens when there is too much bilirubin in your baby’s blood. Bilirubin is a yellow substance made when red blood cells break down. Babies have a lot of red blood cells, and their livers are not fully developed, so they can’t get rid of bilirubin quickly. This causes the yellow color in their skin and eyes.¹ 

Types of Jaundice

There are two main types of jaundice related to feeding:

1. Jaundice Related to Low Intake: This type usually happens in the first week of life. It occurs when a baby doesn’t get enough milk, which can lead to higher bilirubin levels. Babies may not be gaining enough weight, and may be fussy or sleepy when feeding. This usually resolves around 2 weeks.²
2. Breast Milk Jaundice: This type appears around the first week and can last up to 3 months.  Per the ABM, the exact reason why this occurs is not known. If it lasts beyond. If jaundice prolongs beyond the third week, it is important to see your healthcare provider.² 

Tips on Jaundice and Breastfeeding

Most babies with jaundice can continue to breastfeed. In fact, breastfeeding often can help reduce bilirubin levels. Here are some tips to manage breastfeeding if your baby has jaundice:

• Initiate Early Breastfeeding: In the hospital, initiate skin-to-skin to breastfeed early, preferably in the first hour after birth if you can.² 
• Feed Frequently: Breastfeed your baby at least 8-12 times a day. Per the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM), hand expression or pumping of your colostrum or breast milk can provide extra milk to support babies who might be at risk or have jaundice. This helps your baby get enough milk and pass stools, which helps remove bilirubin from their body. The best supplement is your own expressed milk!²
• Monitor Weight and Diapers: Keep track of your baby’s weight and the number of wet and dirty diapers. This helps ensure they are getting enough milk, and removing the bilirubin.²
• Phototherapy: If your baby’s bilirubin levels are very high, they might need phototherapy. This treatment uses light to help break down bilirubin in the skin.²
• No Additional Water or Glucose Water: Not needed and could cause low levels of sodium in your baby’s blood.²

When to Seek Help

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Lactation Q & A

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References