Jaundice & Breastfeeding
Jaundice is the most common diagnosis in full-term infants during the immediate post-natal period, occurring in approximately 60 percent of all babies (3 in every 5 babies approximately). It usually occurs during those really important first few weeks where we are establishing breastmilk supply and can greatly impact a breastfeeding journey for a variety of reasons.
Here, we will explore the effects of jaundice on breastfeeding and offer practical tips for parents struggling to breastfeed a jaundice baby.
Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, characterised by a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels. While jaundice itself does not typically affect a baby's ability to breastfeed, some factors associated with jaundice often do pose challenges:
Lethargy: Jaundiced babies may exhibit lethargy and decreased energy levels, making it more challenging for them to actively engage in breastfeeding.
Poor Sucking Reflex: In some cases, jaundiced newborns may have a weaker sucking reflex, leading to difficulties in latching onto the breast and effectively extracting milk.
Sleepiness: Jaundice can make babies sleepier then usual, which may result in decreased feeding frequency and shorter feeding sessions.
It's important to remember that breastfeeding remains important for your baby's overall health, even if they have jaundice and there are many way to navigate this short term challenge. Support with a International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is key.
Here are some tips to support breastfeeding whilst jaundice is influencing things:
Frequent Feeds: Ensure you feed your baby at least 8-12 times a day by waking them approx 3hrs after the start of the previous feed. Frequent feeding stimulates milk production, helps prevent dehydration, and promotes the elimination of bilirubin through bowel movements.
Wakefulness Techniques: If your baby is sleepy or less interested in feeding, try gentle techniques to awaken them before breastfeeding. Skin-to-skin is a gentle but very effective way to stimulate their senses and help them breastfeed.
Comfortable & Effective Latch: Helping your stably and effectively latch to breastfeed will optimize milk transfer. Seek guidance from a International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) who can help you achieve a deep and effective latch. This is our bread and butter here at Full Circle!
Breast Compression: Consider some gentle breast compressions during breastfeeding, to encourage a continuous flow of milk.
Overall, while jaundice in newborns can be a very common occurrence, it’s crucial to know that you do not need to navigate this alone. Having timely intervention and support is key to protecting a breastfeeding journey and ensuring the wellbeing of your little one.
References & further resources:
La Leche League International: https://llli.org/breastfeeding-info/jaundice/
Academy for Breastfeeding Medicine: https://abm.memberclicks.net/assets/DOCUMENTS/PROTOCOLS/22-jaundice-protocol-english.pdf
American Academy of Pediatrics: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Jaundice.aspx