Abstract

Two Types of jaundice associated with breast-feeding are recognized. The first type is early onset breastfeeding jaundice which may result from caloric deprivation and/or insufficient frequency of feeding. This type of jaundice can be prevented or treated by encouraging mothers to nurse as frequently as possible, particularly if the bilirubin level is rising. The second type is later onset, prolonged jaundice, known as the breast milk jaundice syndrome which is associated with one or more abnormalities in the maternal milk itself. Breast milk jaundice syndrome generally needs no therapy if serum bilirubin concentrations remain below 270 mumol/l in healthy full-term infants. When the serum bilirubin concentration is above 270 mumol/l and rising, temporary interruption of breastfeeding may be indicated.

PIP:

2 types of jaundice associated with breastfeeding are discussed. The 1st type, early onset breastfeeding jaundice, may result from caloric deprivation and/or insufficient frequency of feeding. This type can be prevented or treated by encouraging mothers to nurse as often as possible, particularly if bilirubin levels are rising. The 2nd is later onset, prolonged jaundice, known as breastmilk jaundice syndrome associated with 1 or more abnormalities in the maternal milk itself. Breastmilk jaundice syndrome generally requires no therapy if serum bilirubin concentrations remain below 270 mcmol/1 in healthy fullterm infants. When the serum bilirubin concentration is above 270 mcmol/1 and rising, temporary interruption of breastfeeding may be indicated.author's modified

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