Understanding Neonatal Jaundice – A Guide for New Parents

What is Neonatal Jaundice?

Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) is a yellowing of your baby's skin and the whites of their eyes.

It is caused by a substance in the blood called bilirubin, which is produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Most babies develop jaundice in the first few days after birth because their livers need time to mature and clear bilirubin effectively.

NNJ is a common condition that affects many newborn babies and can vary in severity.

How to Spot Signs of Jaundice in Your Baby?

After 24 hours of life, your baby may develop yellowing of the eyes and face. As the bilirubin level increases, the yellow colour may spread to the chest, abdomen, arms and legs.

Is My Baby More Likely to Develop Severe Jaundice?

Your baby may be at a higher risk of developing severe jaundice if they have any of the following risk factors:

Premature (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
Blood group incompatibility (between baby and mother)
G6PD deficiency (an inherited red blood cell enzyme disorder)
Sibling with jaundice
Poor feeding or breastfeeding difficulties in the first few days after birth (leading to dehydration)

If your baby has any of these risk factors, it is recommended that your baby be screened for jaundice 24-48 hours after discharge.

When and Where Should I Bring My Baby for a Jaundice Check?

When your baby is 3 to 5 days old, bring them to your nearest polyclinic or our hospital's outpatient clinic for a jaundice screening.

A quick and painless device called a Transcutaneous Bilirubinometer (TcB) may be used to check your baby's bilirubin level by gently placing it on their skin.

If needed, the result may be confirmed with a small heel-prick blood test.

Your healthcare provider will use the bilirubin level to determine whether phototherapy (blue light treatment) is needed.