Should infants with jaundice be exposed to sunlight?
Disease description:
I’d like to take my baby outside for some exercise—the summer weather is so nice! But should babies with jaundice be exposed to sunlight?
Doctor's answer (2)
Dr. Yang Zhaohua
It is normal for infants to develop jaundice. Infants with jaundice may be exposed to sunlight—during early morning or late afternoon, when sunlight is mild, expose the hands, feet, and face for approximately 10–15 minutes per session. If serum bilirubin levels are elevated, ensure adequate hydration; medications that lower bilirubin may also be prescribed. In most cases, jaundice resolves spontaneously within two weeks. However, breast milk jaundice should not be ruled out. In such cases, temporary cessation of breastfeeding is recommended until bilirubin levels decrease; breastfeeding may then be resumed. Some infants may take up to one month to fully recover—this is generally not a cause for concern.
