Breast Milk Jaundice: Should You Stop Nursing Your Baby?

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• What is Breast Milk Jaundice?

• How is it Different from Normal Newborn Jaundice?

• Causes of Breast Milk Jaundice

• Should You Stop Breastfeeding?

• Safe Ways to Manage It

• When to See a Doctor

• Did You Know?

• Conclusion

• FAQs

Introduction

Jaundice is common among Malaysian newborns, and many parents are told it could be linked to breast milk. This can create confusion and concern—especially for first-time mums. The good news? Breast milk jaundice is usually harmless and doesn't mean you need to stop nursing.

What is Breast Milk Jaundice?

• Occurs in healthy, full-term breastfed babies: It's a normal variation seen in babies who are otherwise doing well.

• Appears after the first week of life and may last for several weeks: Unlike normal jaundice, it develops a bit later and lingers.

• Caused by substances in breast milk that affect how bilirubin is processed in the liver: These natural enzymes slow bilirubin breakdown, but not in a harmful way.

How is it Different from Normal Newborn Jaundice?

• Normal jaundice appears within 2–3 days after birth and usually resolves within a week: This type is common and clears up quickly.

• Breast milk jaundice starts later (around day 5–7) and can persist longer, even up to 12 weeks: It's longer lasting but still not dangerous.

• Baby is otherwise healthy, feeding well, and gaining weight: This is a key sign that there's no cause for alarm.

Causes of Breast Milk Jaundice

• Some enzymes in breast milk may reduce the liver's ability to break down bilirubin quickly: These enzymes are natural and vary among mothers.

• Genetic factors can make some babies more prone to it: It may run in families or be linked to baby’s metabolism.

• It’s not caused by poor milk quality—your milk is still nutritious and safe: Your breast milk continues to provide essential nutrients.

Infographic credits to Frontier

Should You Stop Breastfeeding?

• No, in most cases you should continue nursing: Breast milk jaundice is rarely a reason to stop.

• Breast milk jaundice is rarely a reason to stop breastfeeding: Most health professionals recommend continuing.

• Temporary pauses are sometimes recommended only in very severe cases under medical advice: But this is uncommon and should only be done under a doctor’s supervision.

Safe Ways to Manage It

• Feed your baby more frequently (8–12 times daily) to help flush out bilirubin: More feeds mean more bowel movements to clear excess bilirubin.

• Monitor diaper output—more wet and dirty diapers mean bilirubin is being excreted: A good indicator that your baby is improving.

• Ensure proper latching and milk transfer: Efficient feeding ensures your baby gets enough milk to stay hydrated and healthy.

• Sunlight exposure under supervision may help mild jaundice: Gentle morning sun for 5–10 minutes can aid bilirubin breakdown.

• Phototherapy might be needed if levels are high: A safe hospital-based treatment using blue light to reduce bilirubin levels quickly.

When to See a Doctor

• If jaundice spreads to legs or hands: This may indicate more severe jaundice.

• Baby appears very sleepy, refuses to feed, or loses weight: These are warning signs that need prompt attention.

• Bilirubin levels remain high after 2 weeks: Prolonged jaundice should be evaluated by a paediatrician.

• Always consult a paediatrician before making any feeding changes: Professional advice ensures your baby’s safety.

Did You Know?

In Malaysia, breast milk jaundice affects about 10%–30% of breastfed infants. It’s not harmful in most cases and doesn’t mean your milk is bad—just that baby’s liver is still maturing.

Conclusion

Breast milk jaundice can be alarming, but it's generally a harmless and temporary condition. You don’t need to stop breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a doctor. Instead, focus on frequent feeds, monitoring symptoms, and getting medical guidance. Your breast milk is still the best nutrition for your baby.

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FAQs

1. Is breast milk jaundice dangerous?

Usually not. It’s a temporary condition in otherwise healthy babies.

2. Can formula feeding stop jaundice faster?

Not necessarily. Breastfeeding is still safe unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

3. How long does breast milk jaundice last?

It can last up to 12 weeks but usually fades gradually without harm.

4. Can I still go for postnatal checkups if my baby has jaundice?

Yes, and it’s important to do so to monitor baby’s progress.

5. Should I give water or glucose water to help with jaundice?

No. Breast milk is sufficient. Giving extra water is not recommended for newborns.