llm
Answered on
Most parents are aware that newborn babies can become jaundiced—getting a yellow discoloration to their skin and eyes from high levels of bilirubin (hyperbilirubinemia). They are often surprised to learn that there are different types of jaundice, including:
- Breastfeeding jaundice: Jaundice that worsens because of poor breastmilk supply or inadequate nursing in a baby's first week, which can lead to dehydration and excessive weight loss. This is a type of physiologic jaundice that also occurs in formula-fed infants, but may be exaggerated if a baby is also not nursing well and has lost a lot of weight.
- Breast milk jaundice: Unlike breastfeeding jaundice, these babies are nursing well and have mild levels of jaundice that may linger for two or three months.
Whatever the cause, jaundice is not a reason to stop breastfeeding. Instead, work with your pediatrician and/or a lactation consultant to get your baby breastfeeding more effectively and improve your breast milk supply. If it becomes necessary to supplement, talk to your pediatrician about using a lactation aid instead of a bottle.