My Baby has Jaundice – What do I do?

Have you ever heard of Jaundice? Jaundice is a very common condition in newborns. Learn about what it is, what causes it and how it can be treated below!

What is Jaundice?

Like I said earlier, Jaundice is a condition that’s very common in newborn infants.  It’s commonly diagnosed when a baby takes on a yellowish color in the skin and eyes. Why? When you’re pregnant, your liver is working double time to remove bilirubin from you and your baby. When your body breaks down old red blood cells, it creates waste called bilirubin that is eventually removed your body during #2.

When your baby is born, it may take a couple of days for your baby to remove bilirubin on its own. When they don’t – it’s called jaundice.

What causes it?

There are many reasons why a baby could have jaundice.  Some of which include:

-          Early birth

-          Baby has a different blood type then you do

-          Infection

-          Baby isn’t feeding well

-          Dehydration

How can it be treated?

Baby’s are checked for jaundice the moment they arrive. If your baby does have jaundice, then phototherapy may be used. This light therapy works to dissolve the extra bilirubin in the skin.

If you find that your baby has jaundice at home, call a pediatrician and make an appointment first and foremost. Also, by feeding your baby often (especially through breastfeeding) the risk of jaundice can be decreased. By doing this, your baby will pass more stools and the liver will start to coax itself back into shape. While breastfeeding, make sure your baby is sucking properly. If they aren’t they may not get enough calories to pass the bilirubin.

Did your baby have jaundice? What did you do? Tell us your story in the comments section below!