Jaundice makes a baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes look yellow. It is very common in newborns and usually harmless, but sometimes it needs treatment, so it is worth knowing what to look for.
Why do newborns get jaundice?
Jaundice is caused by a build-up of bilirubin, a yellow substance made when red blood cells break down. A newborn’s liver is still developing and cannot clear bilirubin quickly at first. Babies born early are more likely to get it.
What to look for
- Yellow skin, especially on the face and body
- Yellow whites of the eyes, or yellow inside the mouth
- Dark yellow or brown pee, or pale, creamy poo
The yellow colour can be easier to see in daylight. Gently pressing the tip of your baby’s nose or forehead can also help. It can be harder to see on black or brown skin, so check the eyes and the inside of the mouth too.
How long does it last?
For most babies, the yellow is most noticeable when they are around 3 days old, and it usually takes about 2 weeks to go. Jaundice that lasts longer than 2 weeks (or 3 weeks in babies born early) should be checked by a doctor.
How can I help?
Feeding your baby regularly, around 8 to 12 times a day, helps them clear the bilirubin. If your baby is sleepy, try waking them for feeds, and ask your midwife or doctor for help if feeding is difficult. Do not put your baby in direct sunlight to treat jaundice.
When to get help
- Your baby is less than 24 hours old and looks yellow: get medical help urgently.
- Your baby looks yellow and is not feeding well, is very sleepy or hard to wake.
- Their pee is dark yellow or brown, or their poo is pale or chalky. Keep a nappy to show the doctor.
- The jaundice lasts more than 2 weeks.
If jaundice needs treatment, it is usually with light therapy (phototherapy) in hospital, which is safe and effective.
Work out your baby’s exact age with our Baby Age Calculator.
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