This claim is FALSE. Newborn babies have low levels of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Low levels of vitamin K put babies at risk for sudden internal bleeding which can be life-threatening. Vitamin K shots are safe and effective in preventing these serious bleeding problems. The myths currently circulating about vitamin K shots are not supported by scientific research.

Adults get vitamin K through leafy green vegetables and as a product of bacterial metabolism in the intestines. At birth, babies do not yet have the bacteria present in their intestines to make vitamin K, and very little vitamin K is present in breast milk.

There are many myths circulating about the safety of vitamin K, however, these are not supported by scientific research.

Vitamin K has been used since 1961, and babies who do not receive the one-time shot are 81 times more likely to develop life-threatening internal bleeding.

All babies usually receive a one-time vitamin K shot before leaving the delivery room, more information can be found on the CDC’s website.

Doctors are still working on finding better ways to educate new parents on the importance of the Vitamin K shot and correct myths that may be putting newborn lives at risk.