What’s up with Vitamin K for Newborns?
by Rebekah Randall CNM
Why is vitamin K given to newborns?
Did you know that vitamin K deficiency bleeding [VKDB], (once called hemorrhagic disease of the newborn [HDNB]), was first documented as bleeding symptoms shortly after birth over 100 years ago! We now understand newborns do not have adequate stores of vitamin K at birth, they are at risk for VKDB. The American Academy of Pediatrics began recommending routine vitamin K to all newborns in 1961.
How is vitamin K given?
Around 20 years ago, vitamin K was given orally or as an intramuscular (IM) injection because both methods were shown to decrease the risk of VKDB. New research evidence has shown that a single dose of vitamin K 0.5mg to 1.0mg IM is the most effective administration method. The oral administration method is also effective and typically is given in 3 doses, the first being 2.0mg at birth, then repeated at 2 to 4 weeks, and finally at 6 to 8 weeks.
Is vitamin K a vaccine?
No, vitamin K is not a vaccine.
Does the vitamin K shot have preservatives?
All injectable medications have a small amount of preservative, including those which are labeled “preservative free,” to keep them stable during packaging and shipping.
My child had a vitamin K shot so they will not have VKDB right?
The vitamin K shot decreases the risk but does not completely prevent VKDB.
Please talk with your midwife for more information!