Mild yellow discoloration of the eyes in a newborn is usually due to physiological jaundice, which typically peaks by day 3–5 and gradually decreases over 10–14 days in term babies. However, in some babies especially those on exclusive breastfeeding mild jaundice can persist up to 3–4 weeks (breast milk jaundice), which is generally benign if the baby is otherwise feeding well, active, and gaining weight.
At 3 weeks, mild yellowing can still be normal, any jaundice persisting beyond 2–3 weeks should be evaluated once by a pediatrician to rule out causes like prolonged neonatal jaundice, infection, hypothyroidism, or
liver-related issues.
You should seek evaluation if:
Yellowing is increasing instead of decreasing
Baby is not feeding well / lethargic
Poor weight gain
Pale stools or dark urine
No medication is required at home for mild jaundice.
Continue exclusive breastfeeding. Further treatment (if needed) depends on evaluation and should be taken only after pediatrician advice.