Vitamin K

Vitamin K is routinely administered to newborns by intramuscular injection shortly after birth. The theory behind this is that the newborn has a naturally low level of Vitamin K. Since Vitamin K is responsible for clotting, it has become routine to administer a shot to boost the newborn's ability to clot. This practice is not without controversy. If newborn's needed a "normal" level of vitamin K, would every newborn be born with a "low" level? Are there benefits to this "low" level? What are the risks associated with altering the normal physiology of the newborn? Colostrum is rich in Vitamin K. Babies who are breastfed obtain immediate protection from their mother's colostrum. Below are links to information regarding the routine administration of Vitamin K.

Resources on Vitamin K Injection

• To read the most recent information regarding Vitamin K injection of the newborn visit Giving Birth Naturally.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics position paper on vitamin K.
• Vaccination Information Service 2003 article on vitamin K. There are great "links" and "articles" tabs on this site. The information is very complete.
• Women's Health Information Vitamin K for Newborns
• This is a joint position statement of the Fetus and Newborn Committee and the Committee on Child and Adolescent Health on Routine administration of vitamin K to newborns.
• The ICPA has posted this article: To Inject or Not.