Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in which a newborn’s skin and the whites of the eyes look yellow because of higher bilirubin levels. It usually appears in the first days of life and in many cases is monitored by healthcare staff and managed with follow‑up. This page explains typical findings, possible risk factors, and when to get medical assessment.
Jaundice causes yellowing of the skin, eye whites and sometimes mucous membranes. It most often starts on the face and can spread toward the chest and limbs. Onset is usually in the first days after birth, though timing and spread vary; definitive assessment requires clinical examination and bilirubin measurement by healthcare professionals.
In addition to yellowing, you may notice reduced feeding, increased sleepiness, or irritability. Warning signs that need prompt medical evaluation include jaundice appearing within the first 24 hours after birth, rapid spread of the yellow color, poor feeding, very low activity or hard to wake, breathing difficulties, fever, or any seizure‑like movements. If these occur, seek medical care without delay.
Reasons for newborn jaundice include the normal immaturity of the baby’s liver, prematurity, blood‑group incompatibility between mother and baby (such as ABO or Rh), birth bruising or bleeding, infections, and problems with feeding that reduce bilirubin elimination. These factors increase the risk and guide clinical monitoring.
If jaundice is suspected, primary evaluation is usually by a pediatrician or the newborn/neonatal care team. Health staff may measure bilirubin levels and recommend follow‑up checks. For severe or rapidly progressing signs, contact emergency services or a pediatric emergency department for immediate assessment.
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