EBF mums, are we giving our babies vitamin D drops?

[Hsolley0904]

I was never told by a midwife or anyone that I would need to give my EBF baby vitamin D drops, but having done some research it seems as if I should be.

is anyone/did anyone do this?

I was like you and I didn't know either, I only found out a few months after having my baby. It's got something to do with not getting the right amount from breast milk as formula already has it in. It's to prevent weak bones and conditions such as bow legged. My Daughter is walking fine tho so I don't think it had consequences.

Couldn't bf but my preemie twins were on vit d from nicu. Thought it was standard.

It's only recommended if you live north of a certain point for babies born early autumn due to lack of natural sunlight I was told, also those with darker skin as they absorb sunlight slower (good for not burning but can be vitamin d deficient). As mine were living in the south and are pale I was told no need whereas my friend (African decent, midlands) was prescribed them for both hers.

Definitely. It’s recommend for everyone.

I intended to. I bought 30 days worth of drops and they lasted a full 6 months.

A multivitamin is also recommended from 6 months, bought a 60 day supply of those, similar story . . .

Mine was on vitamin d one day and then vitamin ad the next. Alternate days. Then at about 3/4 months i got told to give him both everyday

I kept forgetting but always took high dose vitamin d myself anyway.

Yes.

Yes - it’s recommended for all EBF babies, not just those born in a certain area or with a certain skin colour. Also taking high strength vit D ourselves doesn’t help as it isn’t passed to the baby.

You're meant to for all breastfed babies, doesn't matter what skin colour or where you live:

www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/