It’s natural for parents to feel concerned when they notice their newborn’s skin turning yellow. It is common to see newborn babies are often affected by jaundice, which makes their skin and eyes have a yellowish tinge. According to KKH, approximately 60 per cent of full-term babies and 85 per cent of premature babies develop jaundice during the first week of life in Singapore. (KKH, 2018) In this article, let’s dive into the symptoms of jaundice, how it causes and the solutions.
What is Newborn Jaundice?
Jaundice causes a yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It is a frequent occurrence in newborns and is generally not a cause for concern. It is due to when there’s too much bilirubin in your baby’s blood. Most infants recover within 10 to 14 days, though in premature babies, the condition may last up to three weeks. (Singhealth, no date)
There are types of jaundice such as G6PD (lack of an enzyme) , Breastfeed Jaundice, and Physiological Jaundice.
What is Bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a yellowish substance found in bile, a fluid that is found in the liver. It is produced when red blood cells break down, and is naturally excreted. However, when the liver is unable to process it, bilirubin can leak into the blood. (Dr Ratna Sridjaja, 2022)
Newborn Jaundice Symptoms
Aside from yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, other symptoms of newborn jaundice may include:
- Yellowing of the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- a yellow tinge to the skin, usually appearing first on the face and scalp
- a yellow tinge to the white parts of the eyes (sclera)
- Dark yellow urine
- Pale-coloured faces
Important Notes
Talk to the maternity staff or professional if you have any concerns about your newborn baby showing any of these symptoms.
What causes newborn jaundice?
The moment your baby starts breathing after birth, the excess red blood cells they had while in the uterus start to break down. This generates higher levels of bilirubin. In the first few days of life, your baby’s liver is immature and doesn’t yet have the ability to excrete this bilirubin properly, so the skin takes on the signature yellow tinge of jaundice.
The colour usually deepens in the first 5 days before it gets lighter and clears up in 1 – 2 weeks. This normal condition is known as physiological jaundice.
What are the other factors caused newborn jaundice?
Common newborn physiological jaundice is caused by bilirubin, however there are also caused by some other range of things:
Other causes of newborn jaundice
- premature birth (below 37 weeks’ gestation)
- insufficient supply of breast milk or formula
- incompatible blood type with the mother
- bruising or internal bleeding at birth
- liver problems
- infection
- enzyme deficiency
Hydration Is Key for Jaundice Management
Suggestions provided by EMW TCM:
When managing newborn jaundice, keeping your baby well-hydrated is more important than focusing solely on food intake. Here are key steps to follow:
1. Encourage Breastfeeding
- Feed your baby 8–12 times per day to maintain hydration and aid in bilirubin elimination.
- Monitor wet diapers: At least six per day is a sign of good hydration.
2. Foods to Avoid (for Mums)
Certain foods can affect breast milk composition and digestion, potentially impacting your baby’s ability to clear bilirubin efficiently. Avoid:
- Fried or greasy foods
- Processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats
- Alcohol, including confinement foods containing alcohol
- Red meat and spicy foods (such as chili and garlic)
3. Foods to Focus On
A well-balanced maternal diet can support milk production and your baby’s liver function. Prioritize:
- Lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs, tofu)
- Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts)
- Whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice)
- Fresh fruits and vegetables (spinach, berries, cucumbers)
4. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration supports milk production and recovery. Aim for at least 2–3 liters of fluids per day, including confinement tea, to ensure a sufficient milk supply for your baby.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Maternal and child health nurse
- Paediatrician
Parents can closely monitor the baby’s skin twice a day to ensure the skin and eye colour is returning to normal. Remember to always consult a professional when needed.
References
(1) National University Health System (NUHS), n.d. Jaundice in Newborns. [online] Available at: https://www.nuhs.edu.sg/patient-care/find-a-condition/jaundice-newborn#:~:text=Please%20bring%20your%20newborn%20to,after%20day%2014%20of%20life
(2) SingHealth, n.d. Neonatal Jaundice. [online] Available at: https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/Neonatal-Jaundice
(3) Kids Clinic, n.d. Jaundice. [online] Available at: https://kidsclinic.sg/pd-guides/health-topics/jaundice/
(4) Mount Elizabeth Hospital, 2022. Jaundice in Babies. [online] Available at: https://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/health-plus/article/jaundice-babies
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