Vitamin K is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, which is particularly important for newborns. However, many are unaware that newborns tend to have low levels of vitamin K.

During pregnancy, vitamin K does not pass through the placenta in adequate amounts, putting babies at risk of deficiency. This deficiency can lead to serious complications, including life-threatening bleeding in newborns.

Impacts of Vitamin K Deficiency in Newborns

Vitamin K deficiency in newborns can lead to a condition known as Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), which refers to abnormal bleeding caused by insufficient vitamin K.

VKDB can be extremely dangerous for infants, leading to permanent brain damage, bleeding in the digestive system, skin, and other tissues, or bleeding that persists after circumcision or minor injuries. In some cases, it can even result in death.

VKDB is classified into three types:

• Early VKDB

This type occurs within the first 24 hours after birth, typically due to the mother taking medications during pregnancy that interfere with vitamin K’s effect.

• Classic VKDB

This occurs between the first and seventh days after birth and is commonly seen in newborns who did not receive vitamin K injections immediately after birth.

• Late VKDB

The most common form of VKDB, this typically occurs between 2 to 3 months of age, but can occur up to 6 months. It usually happens if the baby has not received a vitamin K injection at birth.

Be Aware of the Symptoms of Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB) in Newborns

VKDB symptoms in newborns often appear suddenly and can be difficult to detect. Common signs include:

• Unexplained bruising, particularly around the face or head.

• Bleeding from the umbilical cord or nose without any apparent cause.

• Pale skin, especially in lighter-skinned babies.

• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes) occurring after the first 3 weeks of birth.

• Blood in the baby’s stool or vomiting blood.

• Behavioral changes such as irritability, excessive sleepiness, fussiness, persistent vomiting, or seizures.

Vitamin K deficiency in newborns can generally be prevented through a vitamin K injection right after birth. Parents can also opt for oral vitamin K if they refuse the injection, though the injection is the more commonly recommended method.

It is essential for parents to understand that administering vitamin K immediately after birth is a critical step in preventing VKDB.

By ensuring proper care and education, the risk of vitamin K deficiency-related complications in newborns can be significantly reduced, allowing the baby to grow healthily and thrive.

If you have any concerns about vitamin K or other health matters related to your baby, you can use the consultation feature available on the Ai Care app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Play Store.

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