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Questions and Answers

Q. Dear Cyndi,
I am mentally debating the newborn eye drops they give routinely in the hospital. My first two babies got erythromycin ointment, which caused infections and goopy eyes in both of them for over a week after birth. Is there one type that is better (less stinging, chance of 'goopy eyes' and temporary loss of vision?). Also, what are the risks of NOT having the drops in a mom who has never had an STD? Is there a test I could take before birth to prove the baby won't need the drops?

By the way, I love your answers, you're a WAY cool nurse!

Leigh

A. Thanks for the compliments, I love working here and being able to help people, I just wish I had more time!

As for your questions, the erythromycin came into use because the old stand, silver nitrate, caused irritation in babies. You might ask your pediatrician what other options are available, I don't know of any, with the exception of breast milk.

As for not doing it, it really depends on your state. In some places you can waiver the eye drops or claim exemptions for certain reasons. In my state if a mom is having a home birth, the practitioner asks if she would like the drops and if she declines that is just noted and initialed by the practitioner and the parent on the newborn exam chart.

Testing is a possibility, and some places will do it as routine.

Good luck!

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.