Newborn vitamin K prophylaxis: developments and dilemmas

Abstract

Newborn vitamin K prophylaxis against vitamin K deficiency bleeding is routinely recommended in the UK. Different regimes and recommendations are considered in the light of recent reports. There is no clear consensus regarding the best route, frequency of oral administration, or efficacy of preparations. The formulation of the only vitamin K preparation available is not vegetarian in origin. The possibility of an increase in the small number of parents who withhold consent to newborn prophylaxis is considered alongside other issues which may influence women's choice. Midwives and doctors may face considerable difficulties and dilemmas in obtaining informed consent, particularly in the case of vegetarian women because there is currently no vegetarian alternative to offer. A campaign is in progress towards finding a solution to this dilemma.