Check firstCheck with your care teamTest or decision

Newborn blood-spot, hearing and heart screening

Newborn screening programmes look for selected conditions before symptoms appear, and the exact panel, timing and follow-up pathway vary by health system.

Direct guidance

What to know or do

Ask which screens are offered, when results arrive, who contacts you and what happens after an incomplete or positive screen. Screening is not the same as a diagnosis.

What changes the answer

  • Whether this is screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment or birth planning
  • Pregnancy week, previous results and what the result could change
  • Benefits, limits, alternatives, follow-up and the time available to decide

Check with your care team

When to get individual help

Check the exact item or situation with a doctor, midwife, pharmacist or relevant clinician; the name of a broad category is not enough for a personal decision.