EBB 347 - Updated Evidence on Vitamin K

Evidence Based Birth®

In this very important episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker is taking a look at the updated evidence on Vitamin K for newborns. Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) is a rare but serious condition that can lead to life-threatening complications in infants. Dr. Dekker breaks down what Vitamin K is, why newborns are at risk for VKDB, and the different supplementation options available—including the Vitamin K shot and oral drops. This episode also tackles myths and misinformation surrounding Vitamin K, including concerns about safety, the so-called “gentle birth” exemption, and the controversial "black box warning." Armed with new research, we explore the effectiveness of various oral Vitamin K regimens, and go over the global recommendations for Vitamin K supplementation. (00:04:01) The Essential Role of Vitamin K for Blood Clotting (00:08:10) Significance of Vitamin K in Newborns' Health (00:14:31) Preventing VKDB: Vitamin K Shot vs Drops (00:16:14) Vitamin K Shot vs. Oral Drops Debate (00:20:00) Effectiveness of Oral Vitamin K Drops vs. Injection (00:31:39) Vitamin K Transfer Through Placental Barrier (00:41:33) Preventing VKDB in Newborns: Pros and Cons of Vitamin K Options Resources:

• Read the full-length EBB Signature Article on Vitamin K (includes all scientific references + a FREE 1-page handout!) at https://ebbirth.com/vitaminK
• EBB Pocket Guide to Newborn Procedures: https://ebbirth.com/shop
• EBB Childbirth Class: https://ebbirth.com/childbirthclass
• CDC Real stories: People with Vitamin K. Deficiency Bleeding
• CDC VKDB information
• Watch this YouTube video from Dr. Matt and Dr. Mike about Hemostasis and the Clotting Cascade (and why Vitamin K and Calcium are important)
• International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions: How to Spot Fake News
• University of Chicago: Evaluating Resources and Misinformation
• Web Literacy for Student Fact Checkers (and other people who care about facts)

For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.