Understanding Newborn Jaundice:
When to Worry and When It’s Normal What is Jaundice in Newborns: Jaundice occurs when a yellow pigment called bilirubin builds up in your baby’s blood faster than their liver can process it. About sixty percent of term newborns and eighty percent of preterm newborns develop some jaundice in the first week — it’s common but needs monitoring.
When Jaundice Appears:
Most jaundice appears between day two and day four of life. You’ll notice yellowing of the skin starting from the face and spreading downward to the chest, belly, and legs. The whites of the eyes may also look yellow.
Physiologic Jaundice Versus Pathologic Jaundice:
Physiologic jaundice is common and usually mild, peaking around day three to five and resolving by two weeks. Pathologic jaundice appears in the first twenty-four hours, increases rapidly, or persists beyond two weeks — this needs urgent evaluation.
When to Call Your Pediatrician:
Contact your doctor if jaundice appears in the first twenty-four hours, spreads to the hands and feet, your baby becomes lethargic or feeds poorly, or jaundice persists beyond two weeks. Do not assume it will go away on its own
Treatment for Jaundice in Newborns:
Mild jaundice often resolves with frequent feeding and sunlight exposure. Moderate to severe jaundice requires phototherapy, where your baby is placed under special lights that help break down bilirubin. In rare cases, exchange transfusion may be needed — your pediatrician will guide you.
Prevention:
Ensure frequent feeding — eight to twelve times daily for breastfed babies — as this helps pass meconium and reduces bilirubin buildup.
What is Colic:
Colic is excessive crying in an otherwise healthy baby, typically defined as crying for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for more than three weeks. It usually starts around two to four weeks of age and peaks at six weeks, then gradually resolves by three to four months. It’s distressing for parents but not dangerous for the baby.
Symptoms of Colic in Babies:
Your baby cries inconsolably, often in the late afternoon or evening. The cry is high-pitched and intense. Your baby may pull their knees to their chest, clench their fists, or have a tight belly. Despite your efforts, nothing seems to soothe them during these episodes.
Causes of Colic:
The exact cause remains unclear, but theories include immature digestion, gas, sensitivity to formula or foods the breastfeeding mother eats, and overstimulation. Colic is not caused by poor parenting or feeding technique.
Soothing Strategies for Colicky Babies:
Gentle rocking, swaddling, white noise, and skin to skin contact often help. Some babies respond to gentle abdominal massage in clockwise circles. Burp your baby frequently during feeds to release trapped gas. Experiment with different holding positions — some babies calm when held upright against your shoulder, others prefer being cradled. Warm compress on the belly or a warm bath sometimes eases discomfort. If breastfeeding, try eliminating common allergens like dairy or eggs temporarily under your pediatrician’s guidance. If formula feeding, ask your pediatrician about hydrolyzed or lactose-free formulas. Take turns with your partner or family member — colic is exhausting, and taking breaks prevents burnout. White noise, gentle singing, or playing soft music can be surprisingly effective. Sometimes a stroller walk or car ride helps when nothing else does. Remember, colic is temporary and will resolve — you’re doing everything right even when it doesn’t feel like it.
When to See Your Pediatrician:
If crying is accompanied by fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, see your doctor to rule out other causes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or desperate, reach out — postpartum depression and colic-related stress are real, and help is available.
Normal Temperature:
A newborn’s normal body temperature is between 97.7F -99.5F. Use a digital thermometer for accuracy — rectal temperature is most reliable in newborns, but axillary, which means underarm, is acceptable for screening at home.
Fever in Newborns:
Any temperature above 100.4F in a baby under three months is a medical emergency. Do not wait and watch. Do not give paracetamol without consulting your pediatrician first. Go to your doctor immediately.
Hypothermia:
Equally important is keeping your baby warm. A temperature below 97.7F is hypothermia — this is dangerous for newborns. Signs include cold hands and feet, sluggishness, poor feeding, and skin turning blue or mottled.
Keeping Baby Warm:
Skin to skin contact with mother or father is the most effective way to regulate a newborn’s temperature, especially in the first few weeks. This is called kangaroo care and has multiple benefits beyond just warmth.
Avoid:
Over bundling, excessive blankets, keeping the baby near direct heat sources like heaters or in direct sunlight for long periods.
