Vitamin K

Vitamin K is administered in the immediate postpartum as either an injection, or in the immediate postpartum through the first twelve weeks postpartum as drops ("oral vitamin K"). It is given to prevent a rare bleeding disorder.

• Vitamin K Informed Choice Form

• Evidence For: The Vitamin K Shot in Newborns

• Oral Vitamin K: Bio-K-Mulsion (made by Biotics Research, ingredients, available through Amazon)

• International Medications Systems Ltd, Vit K (Phytonadione) injection

• Oral Vitamin K dosing schedule: 4 drops administered at the newborn exam, 4 drops day four postpartum, 2 drops weekly afterwards through thirteen weeks postpartum

Eye Ointment

A prophylactic antibiotic eye ointment is offered to be administered to the newborn in the immediate postpartum. It protects the baby from infections related to chlamydia or gonorrhea. 

• Eye Ointment Informed Choice Form

Circumcision

• Male Circumcision Informed Choice
  

Newborn Screening

We offer the newborn screening test at your 24-48 hour home visit. This heel-prick test is performed to assess whether your baby might have any of several rare disorders that can be successfully treated if discovered early in life. For more information on newborn screening, see the New England Newborn Screening website.