Newborn checks in England: what happens in the first weeks

Within 72 hours: physical examination

Screening means checking for possible health problems even when your baby seems well. A screening result may lead to further tests; it is not a guarantee about every aspect of their health.

The newborn examination looks for general concerns and specifically checks the eyes, heart, hips and testicles where relevant. It is normally offered within the first 72 hours. Ask your midwife if it has not been offered or you are unsure whether it happened.

Before a check, you can ask what it is looking for, how it is done and when you will hear the result. You can also mention anything you have noticed about feeding or your baby's behaviour. The examination is a chance to raise your questions.

Sources: NHS, NHS

Around day 5: blood spot screening

A small blood sample is usually taken when your baby is five days old to screen for certain rare conditions. Sometimes the timing changes because of an individual situation. If it has not happened, tell your midwife, health visitor or GP. A health visitor is a nurse or midwife with extra training to support families with young children.

Ask how and when the results will reach you, and whom to contact if you have not heard. If a repeat sample is needed, ask the team to explain why; do not try to interpret the request by comparing it with another family's experience.

Sources: NHS, NHS

In the early weeks: hearing screening

Hearing screening is usually offered before four weeks of age, although it can be done up to three months. It may happen in hospital, at home or in a clinic. The test checks the baby's response to gentle sounds and takes a few minutes.

An unclear result can lead to another test. Ask the team what the next appointment is for and keep it in your calendar. Even after a clear screening result, raise later concerns about hearing with your health visitor or GP.

Sources: NHS

At 6–8 weeks: another physical examination

A further physical check is offered at six to eight weeks because some problems may only become apparent later. Confirm how this is arranged with your GP practice. Your baby's check and your own postnatal review (your health check after giving birth) are different appointments or parts of a visit; ask what is booked for each of you.

Bring the red book (your baby’s personal health and development record) and a short question list. Pick the questions that matter most now: feeding, something you have noticed, or a care task you would like demonstrated. There is no need to wait for the routine check if a concern needs attention sooner.

Sources: NHS, NHS

Keep a one-page appointment record

For each appointment, note its name, date, location, contact number and the next action. Add a tick only when it has happened. ‘Booked’ and ‘done’ are different, and keeping that distinction clear avoids relying on memory during a busy week.

Screening is offered and explained so you can make an informed choice. This guide uses England's NHS pathways; arrangements can differ elsewhere in the UK and in other countries. Follow the team caring for your baby, especially after a premature birth or hospital stay.

Sources: NHS, NHS, NHS