Should Your Newborn Receive Prophylactic Eye Drops at Birth?

Most newborns in the United States, whether delivered by midwife or obstetrician, will receive prophylactic eye ointment shortly after birth. Many parents, however, are opting not to have this treatment administered to their newborns. While prophylactic eye ointment is required by law in many areas, parents are free to forbid the treatment (and most other medical interventions) if they so choose.

Benefits

If the mother has been exposed to Chlamydia, syphilis, or gonorrhea, or if her status is unknown, prophylactic eye drops may be well-advised. The eye ointment can prevent infection from these bacteria that may be present in the birth canal. Prophylactic eye drops can also prevent infection from these and other germs in the air and on caretakers' hands. These infections can cause blindness in newborns, so if the newborn is at risk for exposure to these bacteria, prophylactic eye drops should be administered. It is important to note that there is some debate as to whether the erythromycin ointment actually prevents these infections (http://www.drjaygordon.com/development/pediatricks/eyecare.asp) but findings are inconclusive. It is also important to note that the bacteria have been found in the eyes of newborns delivered by c-section. As these babies never passed through the birth canal, the bacteria may be transmitted through the air, or on the hands of nurses, doctors, and other caregivers.

Risks