Information for the public
Which babies are more likely to develop jaundice that needs treatment?
Which babies are more likely to develop jaundice that needs treatment?
The following babies are more likely to develop jaundice that needs treatment:
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babies who were born early (at less than 38 weeks of pregnancy)
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babies who have a brother or sister who had jaundice that needed treatment as a baby
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babies whose mother intends to breastfeed exclusively
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babies who have signs of jaundice in the first 24 hours after birth.
Whether your baby looks jaundiced or not, the doctor or midwife should check whether your baby is at risk of developing high levels of jaundice soon after birth, and if so, the doctor or midwife should give your baby an additional check for jaundice during the first 48 hours.