It is usually harmless. In jaundice, the whites of the eyes and the skin of the newborn baby look yellow. Jaundice shows up first in the baby's face and moves down their body. It often goes away within a week, without treatment. Jaundice can happen in babies who are breast-fed and in babies who are bottle fed.
Premature babies are more likely to get normal jaundice.
It may appear later and last longer in these infants. It is usually most noticeable between the 5th and 7th days of life. Do not be alarmed if your baby has jaundice. In most cases, the jaundice is normal, harmless, and lasts for only a short time. When treatment is needed, it is safe and effective.