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What Exactly Is Newborn Jaundice?
Jaundice happens when your baby’s skin or the whites of their eyes take on a yellowish tint because of high bilirubin levels in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that forms naturally when red blood cells break down. Normally, the liver helps process and remove bilirubin from the body. However, in newborns, especially right after birth, the liver may still be immature and not clear it efficiently enough.
In many babies, this type of jaundice is mild and goes away on its own within a week or two. But after a difficult or prolonged delivery, your baby might be at a higher risk of developing more significant jaundice.
This can happen if there was bruising during birth, a vacuum or forceps were used, factors that can lead to increased red blood cell breakdown and, in turn, higher bilirubin levels. In such cases, close monitoring and timely medical care help ensure your baby’s bilirubin levels stay within a safe range.
How Can a Difficult Delivery Lead to Jaundice?
A challenging birth can involve stress on the baby, trauma, or oxygen deprivation, which may contribute to jaundice in several ways:
- Bruising or blood breakdown – If your baby has bruising from a prolonged or instrument-assisted delivery, more red blood cells may break down, producing extra bilirubin
- Premature birth or delayed liver function – Babies born early or under stress may have livers that are not fully ready to process bilirubin
- Maternal blood incompatibility – In some cases, if your blood type differs from the baby’s (like Rh incompatibility), extra red blood cell breakdown can occur
What Are the Warning Signs You Should Look For?
Jaundice usually develops 2–4 days after birth. Keep an eye out for:
- Yellowing of the skin starting at the head and moving downward
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
- Poor feeding or difficulty sucking
- Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
- Dark urine or pale stools
When Is Jaundice Serious?
Most cases of jaundice resolve on their own or with simple treatments like phototherapy. However, severe or untreated jaundice can lead to kernicterus, a rare form of brain damage. Seek immediate medical attention if:
- Yellowing spreads rapidly or deepens in colour
- Palms and soles are yellow
- Your baby is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake
- Feeding is poor, or vomiting occurs
- High-pitched crying or arching of the body is noticed
How Is Jaundice Treated After a Delivery?
Treatment depends on the severity of bilirubin buildup:
- Phototherapy – Your baby is placed under special lights that help break down bilirubin
- Feeding support – Frequent feeding, especially breastfeeding, helps the liver naturally remove bilirubin
- Exchange blood transfusions – Rarely needed for very high bilirubin levels or underlying conditions
Practical Steps You Can Take at Home
Even after discharge, you can support your baby’s recovery and prevent jaundice complications by:
- Feed your baby frequently (every 2–3 hours) to help clear bilirubin
- Monitor skin and eye colour daily under natural light
- Avoid unnecessary supplements unless advised by your paediatrician
- Keep follow-up appointments for bilirubin checks
- Support skin-to-skin contact to boost feeding and bonding
Encourage your partner or family to help with feedings, diaper changes, and emotional support. This teamwork not only helps your baby but also strengthens your confidence and bonding experience.
What To Do Next: Quick Checklist
- Watch for early jaundice signs daily
- Feed your baby frequently and ensure proper latching
- Keep all follow-up pediatric appointments
- Contact your doctor if jaundice worsens
- Seek emotional support if stress or anxiety feels overwhelming.
It’s important to watch for yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual sleepiness, or feeding difficulties. Prompt communication with your healthcare team ensures your baby receives the right care, reduces complications, and helps you feel more confident in your role as a parent during this sensitive period.
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FAQs on What Causes Newborn Jaundice After A Difficult Delivery
- Can jaundice appear immediately after birth?
Yes, in some cases, especially with blood incompatibility or birth trauma, jaundice can appear within the first 24 hours and should be evaluated promptly. - Is breastfeeding safe if my baby has jaundice?
Absolutely. Frequent breastfeeding helps reduce bilirubin levels, but always follow your paediatrician’s guidance if supplementation is needed. - How long does newborn jaundice usually last?
Mild jaundice often resolves within 1–2 weeks, while babies with higher bilirubin may require a bit longer under medical care.