Mental Matters

Diagram Highlighting Causes of Jaundice in Newborns Through Fetal and Maternal Anatomy

This detailed anatomical illustration shows a side view of a pregnant woman with labelled organs including the pancreas, placenta, uterus, heart, and the developing fetus. It provides a clear view of the maternal-fetal connection via the umbilical cord and placenta, both of which play a critical role in the transfer and breakdown of bilirubin. Jaundice in newborns often arises due to the immaturity of the infant’s liver, which is temporarily unable to efficiently process bilirubin after birth. Other causes may include blood group incompatibility, prematurity, bruising during delivery, or infections. This image visually supports an understanding of how maternal and fetal systems contribute to the risk of neonatal jaundice.