If you do not want your newborn to receive one or more of these injections at birth, you should immediately evaluate the birthing options. Find out if the hospital or birthing center under consideration routinely gives newborns these injections.
Vaccination and injection policies may be hard to find and are often included under “Standard of Care” language in policy manuals. Flexibility around exceptions to a facility’s policy in this regard may vary. Request a copy of the facility’s policy governing these injections well in advance of the birth of your child. For more information, see General Information on Laws and Standing Orders below.
As you make informed decisions about where you will give birth to your child and the care your child receives at the birthing facility, it is also essential that you find a healthcare provider you trust. While NVIC does not provide medical advice, we provide resource information about organizations that provide physician information. These resources may assist you with finding a doctor who respects your right to make informed medical decisions for your newborn child. Visit NVIC’s FAQ – Physician referral, can NVIC help? for more information.
