Understanding Newborn Jaundice: Causes, Treatment, and When Phototherapy is Needed

Welcoming a newborn brings immense joy, but seeing a yellowish tinge appear on your baby's skin or eyes within the first few days can cause understandable anxiety.

What Causes Neonatal Jaundice? Jaundice occurs when a newborn's bloodstream contains elevated levels of bilirubin—a natural byproduct formed when red blood cells break down. Because a newborn's liver is still maturing, it takes several days for the baby to process and eliminate bilirubin effectively through stools and urine.

Physiological vs. Pathological Jaundice * **Physiological Jaundice (Most Common):** Typically appears on day 2 or 3 of life, peaks between day 4 and 5, and gradually resolves within 1 to 2 weeks as feeding improves and the liver matures. * **Early-Onset Jaundice (First 24 Hours):** Jaundice appearing within the first day of life is medical emergency that may stem from blood group incompatibility (ABO or Rh incompatibility) or enzyme deficiencies.

The Role of Frequent Feeding Frequent breastfeeding (8 to 12 times in 24 hours) stimulates frequent bowel movements, which helps clear bilirubin from the baby's system. Never substitute formula without consulting your pediatrician, but ensure adequate hydration.

Modern LED Phototherapy at Vijaya Harsha Hospital When bilirubin exceeds safe thresholds, our Level-III NICU utilizes specialized blue-spectrum LED phototherapy units. The light alters the molecular structure of bilirubin so the infant can excrete it safely through urine without liver processing. The procedure is painless, highly effective, and gentle on the baby's delicate skin.