Understanding Breast Milk Jaundice

When babies are born, it is very common for them to suffer from Jaundice. This is due to the increase in the levels of bilirubin in the system which is allowing the child to become used to the life outside of the womb and it is considered to be a natural procedure. You will also notice that your new born will have a strong yellow color on the skin and eyes as well; however, this is something that goes away naturally within the first three weeks of his life.

However, there are a very low percentage of children that can develop breast milk jaundice. The reasons for this increase in bilirubin may be due to the quality of the milk and the amount of feeding, however, it is extremely difficult to diagnose breast milk jaundice, because of other factors that may be affecting the baby within those first few weeks of birth.

Natural process and its changes

It is however, extremely important to note that you need to be very careful with any condition related to jaundice as this can lead to brain damage in some cases. However, again please note that most jaundice cases are normal and they do not develop into something as grave regularly.

Another point that needs to be understood is that Jaundice in new born can be caused because of the lack of proper intake of breast milk, and that may be the reason why there is a bit of confusion with the terms, and stopping breast feeding because of the increase in the yellow coloring of the skin and eyes may not be the best solution to the problem.

If you feel that your new born is looking very yellow and does not seem to be interested in feeding, or that you are not being able to feed him properly, then you may have to consult your pediatrician immediately to make sure that all is going as per the natural process. Otherwise, your child may need some extra attention for a few days.

Taking the proper precautions

The levels of bilirubin increase towards the end of the third week, and therefore, you are going to have to watch this very carefully. It may be a good idea to get your doctor to give you advice on the present condition and not to stop feeding the baby unless and until you are asked to do so to make sure that he is getting all the nutrition that he requires.