Newborn Jaundice

Many newborn babies develop yellow skin when their liver cannot get rid of a substance in the blood called bilirubin. This is called jaundice. Jaundice usually appears on the second or third day of life in healthy babies who are born full-term. It is very common and may occur sooner in preterm babies. The yellow skin first appears on the face. It then moves down the body toward the toes. In most cases, the condition is mild and will disappear on its own without any special treatment.

If you notice your baby’s skin color becoming yellow, notify your pediatrician. A blood test to check your baby’s bilirubin level may be necessary. A small amount of blood is taken from the baby’s heel. If the jaundice requires treatment, a technique called “phototherapy” is often used. This treatment involves placing your baby under special ultraviolet lights, called “bili-lights.” Exposing the skin to these lights helps the body get rid of bilirubin faster. This treatment may be done in the hospital. It may also be done in your home through Woman’s Home Care.

For more important information about jaundice, see the “Newborn Jaundice” brochure.