Newborn jaundice is a common condition that affects many babies during their first days of life. It causes yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood.

What Is Newborn Jaundice?​

Newborn jaundice (also called neonatal jaundice) occurs when a baby has high levels of bilirubin, a yellow substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells.


Since a newborn’s liver is still developing, it may not process bilirubin efficiently. As a result, bilirubin builds up in the bloodstream and causes visible yellowing.

How Long Does Newborn Jaundice Last?​

The duration depends on the type and overall health of the baby:

Physiological Jaundice (Normal Jaundice)​

• Appears 2–3 days after birth
• Peaks around day 3–5
• Usually resolves within 7–10 days
• May last up to 2–3 weeks in premature babies

This is the most common and generally harmless type.

Breast Milk Jaundice​

• May begin after the first week
• Can last 2–3 weeks, sometimes up to 4–6 weeks
• Babies usually remain healthy and feed well

This condition is typically mild but should still be monitored by a pediatrician.

Pathological Jaundice​

• Appears within the first 24 hours after birth
• Bilirubin levels rise rapidly
• Lasts longer than 3 weeks
• May require urgent medical treatment

If jaundice appears very early or worsens quickly, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.

Symptoms of Newborn Jaundice​

Common signs include:

• Yellowing of the skin (starting from the face and moving downward)
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
• Sleepiness or lethargy
• Poor feeding
• Dark urine (in severe cases)
• Pale stools (rare but serious sign)

If the yellow color spreads to the legs or the baby becomes difficult to wake, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Causes of Newborn Jaundice​

Several factors can increase the risk:

• Immature liver function
• Premature birth
• Blood type incompatibility (ABO or Rh incompatibility)
• Bruising during birth
• Infection
• Dehydration or inadequate feeding

Treatment for Newborn Jaundice​

Treatment depends on bilirubin levels and the baby’s age.

Phototherapy (Light Therapy)​

The most common treatment. Babies are placed under special blue lights that help break down bilirubin so it can leave the body more easily.

Frequent Feeding​

Regular breastfeeding or formula feeding helps eliminate bilirubin through stool.

Exchange Transfusion (Rare Cases)​

In severe situations, a blood exchange procedure may be necessary.

When Should You Worry?​

Seek medical care immediately if:

• Jaundice appears in the first 24 hours
• The baby is not feeding well
• The baby is extremely sleepy
• Jaundice spreads to arms and legs
• Symptoms last longer than 3 weeks

Very high bilirubin levels can lead to kernicterus, a rare but serious type of brain damage. Early monitoring prevents complications.

How Is Bilirubin Measured?​

Doctors check bilirubin levels through:

• A skin scanner (transcutaneous bilirubin meter)
• A blood test (serum bilirubin test)

Results are compared with the baby’s age in hours to determine whether treatment is needed.

Final Thoughts​

How long does newborn jaundice last?
In most healthy, full-term babies, it lasts 7–10 days and resolves on its own. However, prolonged or early-onset jaundice requires medical evaluation.


Regular pediatric check-ups and monitoring ensure your baby stays safe and healthy during this common newborn phase.