Vitamin K is given to newborns to prevent Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn
(HDN).  It is estimated that 1 in 200 to 1 in 400 infants not given IM Vitamin
K  at birth will develop HDN.  It occurs equally among boys and girls.
Breastfed infants are at increased risk because breastmilk is low in Vitamin K,
even if they receive IM Vitamin K at birth.  HOWEVER, this can be combated by
early feeding, as colostrum is high in Vitamin K, and ensuring that mom's
completely empty their breasts at feeds, as hind milk is higher in Vitamin K
than foremilk.  This does not replace the need for Vitamin K in all newborns.

Constance E. Hymas
RNC, MN
IBCLC wanna be (hope to take the exam next summer)

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