How to treat breast milk jaundice without stopping breastfeeding
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
The approach to managing breast milk jaundice without discontinuing breastfeeding usually depends on the bilirubin level. If the bilirubin level is below 15 mg/dL, supportive care or pharmacological treatment can be used while continuing breastfeeding. If the bilirubin level exceeds 15 mg/dL, breastfeeding is generally not recommended, and interventions such as medication or phototherapy should be implemented to improve the condition.
The management of breastfeeding jaundice without discontinuing breastfeeding generally depends on the bilirubin level. If the bilirubin level is below 15 mg/dL, supportive therapy or medication can usually be used while continuing breastfeeding. However, if the bilirubin level exceeds 15 mg/dL, continued breastfeeding is generally not recommended, and treatments such as medication or phototherapy should be initiated to improve the condition.
1. Bilirubin level below 15 mg/dL
When bilirubin levels are below 15 mg/dL, appropriate treatments can typically be implemented while continuing breastfeeding to promote a decrease in bilirubin. For example, maintaining proper feeding ensures adequate nutrition for the baby. Attention should also be paid to keeping the baby warm and avoiding crowded places to prevent infectious diseases. Additionally, under medical guidance, probiotics such as lactobacillin granules, Bifidobacterium triple viable powder, and Clostridium butyricum live combined powder may be appropriately administered to regulate the intestinal microenvironment and aid bilirubin metabolism.
2. Bilirubin level above 15 mg/dL
If bilirubin levels exceed 15 mg/dL, breastfeeding is usually discontinued to avoid interfering with recovery, and treatment is determined based on the specific bilirubin level. When bilirubin levels range between 15–20 mg/dL, medications that help reduce bilirubin production—such as Yinzhihuang oral liquid, sodium phenobarbital injection, or intravenous immunoglobulin—are generally prescribed under medical supervision to lower bilirubin levels. If bilirubin exceeds 20 mg/dL, phototherapy using blue light is typically required to promote bilirubin reduction.
