Kirsten Fisch
Co-Founder at - Momentum Health NetworkKirsten Fisch, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC, LCCE Kirsten is a women's health nurse who specializes in high-risk pregnancy and postpartum care. She is certified in Maternal Newborn Nursing, a board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), and a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator. She works with women from conception through the postpartum period. Passionate about empowering women throughout their reproductive journeys, Kirsten combines evidence-based care with compassionate support to promote the health and well-being of mothers and babies.
Newborn screening is one of the first steps in a baby’s healthcare journey, but many parents aren’t sure whether these tests are mandatory, or even what they’re for. This post breaks down the basics of newborn screening and whether participation is required.
What Is Newborn Screening?
Newborn screening is a set of medical tests performed shortly after birth to detect certain serious but treatable health conditions. These conditions may not show any symptoms right away, but can cause severe problems if not caught early.
Most newborn screening programs include tests for:
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., phenylketonuria or PKU)
- Hormonal disorders (e.g., congenital hypothyroidism)
- Blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell disease)
- Hearing loss
- Critical congenital heart defects (CCHD)
The goal of these screenings is early detection, which can significantly improve a child’s long-term health and development.
Are Newborn Screening Tests Mandatory?
In the United States, newborn screening is required by law in all 50 states. However, there are a few important nuances:
- Parental Refusal: While screening is standard practice, some states allow parents to refuse for religious or personal reasons. This typically involves signing a formal refusal form.
- State Variations: Each state screens for its own panel of conditions. Some states test for more than 50 conditions, while others test for fewer.
To find out precisely what your state requires, visit the Baby’s First Test state-by-state guide.
Why Newborn Screening Matters
Newborn screening can be lifesaving. Many of the conditions tested for are rare, but if left untreated, they can lead to:
- Severe physical or intellectual disabilities
- Chronic illness
- Death
Catching these conditions early allows for immediate intervention, including dietary changes, medication, or surgery, which can dramatically improve outcomes.
Bottom Line
While newborn screening is technically mandatory in most places, parents should be aware of their rights and responsibilities. Opting out is usually discouraged due to the potential health risks to the baby, but in most cases, it is legally possible with proper documentation.
If you’re expecting a baby, talk to your healthcare provider or birth facility about what to expect and what’s required in your area.
Kirsten Fisch, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC, LCCE Kirsten is a women's health nurse who specializes in high-risk pregnancy and postpartum care. She is certified in Maternal Newborn Nursing, a board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), and a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator. She works with women from conception through the postpartum period. Passionate about empowering women throughout their reproductive journeys, Kirsten combines evidence-based care with compassionate support to promote the health and well-being of mothers and babies.
