Infant jaundice

A yellow color to the skin in newborns caused by high bilirubin levels, a condition that must be closely watched.

Self-care

Feed baby more frequently. Breastfed babies should have 8 to 12 feedings a day for the first several days of life. Formula-fed babies usually should have 1 to 2 ounces of formula every 2 to 3 hours for the first week.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional right away if:

• Jaundice is getting worse, not better.
• Baby is listless or hard to wake up.
• Baby has a high-pitched cry or won't stop crying.
• Baby's body is stiff or arched like a bow.
• After a home birth, baby has yellow skin or eyes.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional if:

• Baby's condition changes.
• Healthcare professional asks to see baby again.