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Newborn jaundice
Pediatrician
Many newborns turn a little yellow (skin and eyes) in the first week. It's almost always mild, but if bilirubin gets very high it can damage the brain. That's why it must be checked in time.
What to do
- Don't miss the check-up in the first days after leaving the hospital.
- Check the color in natural light: gently press the skin on the forehead or chest and see if it looks yellow.
- Feed often: breastfeed 8 to 12 times a day, or formula every 2 to 3 hours. Feeding helps clear bilirubin.
- Count wet diapers and poops.
What not to do
- Don't put the baby in the sun to treat jaundice: it isn't safe and doesn't work well.
- Don't give water or sugar water.
- Don't stop breastfeeding without talking to the pediatrician.
- Don't use teas or home remedies.
