A 3-week-old infant is diagnosed with breast milk jaundice. What is the most suitable management?

Breast milk jaundice is a common condition that typically arises in infants between 4 to 7 days of life and can persist for several weeks, often resolving by 12 weeks of age. It is often attributed to substances in breast milk that can interfere with bilirubin metabolism. The management of breast milk jaundice focuses on supporting the infant's natural breastfeeding, as this continues to provide essential nutrients and promotes healthy development.

Continuing breastfeeding is recommended even in the presence of jaundice, as stopping breastfeeding can lead to complications such as dehydration, poor weight gain, and missed opportunities for the infant to receive the benefits of breast milk. In most cases of breast milk jaundice, bilirubin levels can be safely monitored, and the condition typically resolves on its own without the need for aggressive interventions such as phototherapy, which is reserved for cases of severe jaundice or rapid increases in bilirubin levels.

This approach encourages mothers to maintain lactation while allowing the infant's liver to mature and efficiently handle bilirubin metabolism, ultimately leading to a positive clinical outcome. It is essential to provide reassurance to parents about breastfeeding during this time, promoting both the health of the infant and the breastfeeding relationship.