Question
How long does a newborn need to be without jaundice before it’s considered safe?
Answer
Newborn jaundice includes both physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice usually appears within a few days after birth, peaks around the fifth day, and then gradually subsides within two weeks. This is due to the underdeveloped liver of newborns, which cannot effectively process bilirubin in the blood. Pathological jaundice, on the other hand, may be caused by liver disease, infection, or other congenital metabolic disorders and often appears soon after birth, with more severe jaundice and a longer duration. Doctors will judge whether further examination and treatment are needed based on the newborn’s jaundice index. Parents should closely monitor their newborn’s condition and consult a doctor promptly if they notice yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, or any other unusual symptoms.