Vitamin K Injection

Vitamin K is a factor our bodies use in blood clotting. We form Vitamin K from the bacteria in our gut, however, a baby's gut is sterile and it takes up to three weeks for them to begin making their own Vitamin K. Only small amounts of Vitamin K are able to cross the placenta or to be gained from breast milk. During these few weeks your baby may be vulnerable to abnormal bleeding because they do not have this clotting factor. This bleeding problem can be life threatening as it can occur anywhere in your baby's body including their head, which can cause brain damage. Although Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn (HDNB) also called Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB) is rare, you will have the option of giving your baby a synthetic version of vitamin K by injection within a couple hours of their birth. This can eliminate the risk of bleeding except in the cases where it cannot be absorbed.

To help you make an informed decision regarding this injection, please see the resources below for more information on the role of vitamin K, the consequences of HDNB/VKDB, and the benefits and harms of the vitamin K injection and its alternatives.

• Canadian Pediatric Society -  Vitamin K for newborns
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Protect Babies from Life-threatening Bleeding - Talk to Expectant Parents about the Benefits of the Vitamin K Shot for Newborns