You will receive information about newborn jaundice before you leave the maternity ward. It is important to know what it is and the symptoms in case your newborn infant develops signs of jaundice.
Yellow skin and fatigue
Monitor to see if baby’s skin or the whites of the eyes turn yellow, or if baby is more tired and sleeps more, falls asleep on the breast or perhaps does not want to suck as before. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important that you call the maternity ward immediately for a personal medical consult.
How breastfeeding is affected
Infants who are slightly yellow also become more tired, which affects breastfeeding. You may have to wake your baby, monitor how he or she is sucking and be more attentive. If your infant releases the breast and falls asleep, you may need to wake him or her. Change the diaper and then take your baby back in your arms and offer the other breast.