In California, several blood tests are required for newborns. Here are some of the disorders that are screened for and what they are all about:

PKU (Phenylketonuria) - This disorder causes babies to have trouble when they eat foods high in protein, such as formula, breastmilk, milk, meat, eggs and cheese. The danger of this disorder is that developmental delays will occur if the babies are not treated.

Hypothyroidism - Babies with this disorder grow very slowly and become developmentally delayed without treatment because they lack a thyroid hormone.

Galactosemia - This disorder prevents babies from using some of the sugars in formula, milk, and breastmilk. Babies with this disorder need to follow a special diet to prevent damage to their brain, eyes and liver.

Hemoglobin Diseases - Diseases of the red blood cells can cause babies to get very sick or die from common infections.

Though that heel prick is tough to watch, keep in mind the importance of these tests to protect your little one.