What causes G6PD deficiency in a newborn?

G6PD helps red blood cells cope with chemical stress. When the enzyme is reduced, cells can break down more easily, a process called haemolysis. A newborn may develop jaundice because haemoglobin is converted into bilirubin. The condition is inherited through a gene on the X chromosome, so its pattern in a family can differ between boys and girls. It is not caused by something a parent ate or did during pregnancy, and it is not contagious. A baby may seem well at first, so clinicians consider family origin, family history, examination findings, and testing when deciding whether assessment is needed.

Tell the baby’s clinician about known G6PD deficiency in relatives and keep a record of the diagnosis if it is confirmed. Before giving a newborn any medicine, supplement, or traditional remedy, check that it is suitable for G6PD deficiency. Follow the recommended bilirubin checks and feeding advice. A Blood Test can help assess red-cell breakdown and confirm the enzyme pattern, but the timing of testing may affect interpretation, so the clinical team should guide follow-up.

Contact the newborn team promptly if the baby becomes increasingly yellow, unusually sleepy, feeds poorly, has fewer wet nappies, or appears weak. Seek urgent care for marked limpness, breathing difficulty, seizures, or a baby who is difficult to wake. Dark Urine or very Pale Skin can also signal a problem that needs prompt medical review, especially when jaundice is changing quickly.

Ask whether the baby needs bilirubin monitoring, enzyme testing, or repeat assessment. Ask which medicines and household products should be avoided, how relatives can be assessed, and which changes in feeding, alertness, urine, or skin colour require immediate help.