Newborn & Infant Screening
- Jun 11
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
Start Strong with the Right Checks from Day One
Welcoming a newborn is full of joy, change, and a fair number of questions. In those first few weeks, knowing your baby is healthy and thriving brings much-needed peace of mind. At Joyful Seeds Paediatrics in Bukit Timah, our Newborn and Infant Screening service provides early insights into your baby’s well-being, helping you feel confident in those first steps of parenthood.
What Is Newborn & Infant Screening?
This screening focuses on your baby’s earliest health markers. It helps us understand how your newborn is adjusting to life outside the womb, and whether there are any signs that need closer attention. We look at development, risk factors, and overall health, then explain everything in clear, simple terms.
At Joyful Seeds, we know this phase can feel overwhelming. That is why we take time to answer your questions, explain what we are checking, and ensure that you leave with not just results, but real understanding.
What’s Included in the Screening?
Every baby’s story begins differently, which is why we tailor each screening based on your child’s age, background, and birth history. Here’s what we may include, and why it matters for your baby’s early care.
Visual Screening
A baby’s vision begins developing from birth, but some concerns can go unnoticed without early checks. We take a close look at eye structure, response to light, and how your baby tracks movement. This helps us pick up early signs of:
Screening may help identify:
Cataracts at birth, which can affect vision if not addressed early
Eye alignment issues like squint or strabismus, which can lead to long-term vision problems
Delayed visual development, which may signal other areas that need support
If anything looks outside the expected range, we guide you through the next steps clearly and calmly.
Blood Group & Rh Factor Testing
Knowing your baby’s blood type is especially useful when this was not confirmed at birth, or if your baby was born overseas or outside a hospital. We may recommend this test if there is:
A history of jaundice, anaemia, or other newborn blood concerns
Risk of blood group mismatch between parent and baby
Having this information helps us manage or prevent complications linked to blood group incompatibility, and gives us a fuller picture of your baby’s health.
Infectious Disease Screening
Some infections can pass to a baby during pregnancy or birth, even if everyone feels well. We may screen for conditions such as:
Hepatitis B or C
HIV
Syphilis
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Toxoplasmosis
These tests are offered only when relevant, and always explained before they’re done. If results come back positive, we talk you through what it means and what support is available. In many cases, catching something early means we can keep things simple and safe as your baby grows.
Each part of the screening is there to give you clarity, not worry. We explain what we’re looking at, why it matters, and what your options are if anything needs follow-up. You’ll never be left wondering what the results mean.
Guided by Trusted Paediatricians
At Joyful Seeds, your baby’s screening is led by Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu, both experienced in the care of newborns and infants.
With backgrounds in hospital paediatrics and community-based care, they know what to look for, when to step in, and how to reassure first-time and experienced parents alike. Whether your baby was born here in Singapore or overseas, they help you understand what the results mean and how best to support your child’s health in these early stages.
What sets them apart is not just experience, but how they use it. They take time to listen, explain, and walk through every concern without rushing. You are never just handed results. You are given clarity, context, and a clear plan if anything needs follow-up.
Why Early Screening Matters
Catch Potential Issues Early
Subtle problems may not show symptoms right away. Screening helps bring them to light when they are easiest to manage.
Support Early Intervention
If something needs treatment or monitoring, catching it early allows us to act quickly and effectively.
Give Parents Peace of Mind
Understanding your baby’s health reduces anxiety and gives you confidence as you navigate this new chapter.
Lay a Strong Foundation
Knowing what is normal for your baby and what needs extra support helps shape better care from the very beginning.
Your Baby’s Health Starts Here
Every parent wants to do the right thing from day one. We’re here to help you do just that.
Led by Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu, Newborn and Infant Screening at Joyful Seeds Paediatrics offers early answers, real support, and peace of mind as you begin this journey.
Reach out today to book a screening or chat with our team. Let’s take this step together.
Newborn & Infant Screening FAQs
How soon is newborn screening done?
Screening is usually done within the first 2–3 days after birth, or at your baby’s first visit with us if born elsewhere.
Do all babies need to be screened?
Yes. Even healthy-looking babies can have hidden conditions. Early checks help us understand and care for your baby better.
What if a screening result is abnormal?
Most results simply mean we need a closer look. We’ll walk you through what it means and what to do next, calmly and clearly.
Why is newborn screening recommended?
It helps us spot early signs of health issues, often before symptoms appear, so your baby can grow with confidence and support.
What does the screening include?
Each screening is tailored, but may include vision checks, blood group testing, and infection screening where needed.
