Breast milk jaundice is a common and usually harmless condition that affects some healthy, breastfed newborns. It typically appears after the first week of life and may last several weeks.


So, what is breast milk jaundice, what causes it, and how long does it last?

What Is Breast Milk Jaundice?​

Breast milk jaundice is a type of newborn jaundice that occurs in otherwise healthy, well-fed babies. It is linked to substances naturally present in breast milk that can temporarily increase bilirubin levels in a baby’s blood.


Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Since a newborn’s liver is still developing, it may not remove bilirubin efficiently, leading to a yellow tint in the skin and eyes.


Important:
Breast milk jaundice does not mean that breast milk is harmful. In most cases, breastfeeding should continue.

When Does Breast Milk Jaundice Start?​

• Usually begins around day 5 to 7 after birth
• Peaks during the second or third week
• May last 2 to 3 weeks
• In some babies, it can persist up to 4 to 6 weeks

Unlike physiological jaundice (which appears in the first few days), breast milk jaundice develops later and lasts longer.

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Symptoms of Breast Milk Jaundice​

Common signs include:

• Yellowing of the skin
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
• Normal feeding behavior
• Healthy weight gain
• Baby appears alert and active

Seek medical attention immediately if your baby has:

• Poor feeding
• Extreme sleepiness
• Dark urine
• Pale or clay-colored stools

These may indicate a different, more serious condition.

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Causes of Breast Milk Jaundice​

The exact cause is not fully understood, but possible factors include:

• Natural substances in breast milk that increase bilirubin reabsorption in the intestines
• Immature liver function in newborns
• Slower processing of bilirubin during the early weeks of life

This condition is different from breastfeeding jaundice, which occurs due to inadequate milk intake in the first few days.

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How Long Does Breast Milk Jaundice Last?​

In most cases:

• It lasts 2 to 3 weeks
• Mild jaundice may continue for up to 6 weeks
• Bilirubin levels gradually decrease over time

As long as the baby is feeding well and growing normally, prolonged mild jaundice is usually not dangerous. However, pediatric monitoring is essential.

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Is Breast Milk Jaundice Dangerous?​

Breast milk jaundice is typically benign (harmless). Serious complications are rare.
However, very high bilirubin levels can lead to a rare but serious condition called kernicterus, which can cause brain damage. This is why doctors monitor bilirubin levels when jaundice persists.

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Treatment for Breast Milk Jaundice​

Most babies do not require treatment. Recommended approaches include:

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Continue Breastfeeding​

Frequent feeding helps eliminate bilirubin through bowel movements.

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Phototherapy​

If bilirubin levels rise too high, doctors may recommend light therapy to help break down bilirubin.

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Temporary Feeding Adjustment (Rare Cases)​

In rare situations, a doctor may suggest a brief 24–48 hour pause in breastfeeding to confirm the diagnosis.
Always consult a healthcare provider before making feeding changes.

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Breast Milk Jaundice vs. Physiological Jaundice​

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Final Thoughts​

What is breast milk jaundice?
It is a common and usually harmless condition seen in healthy breastfed babies. Although it may last several weeks, it typically resolves on its own without interrupting breastfeeding.
If your baby shows unusual symptoms or jaundice persists beyond six weeks, consult your pediatrician for further evaluation.