The Bioethics of "Baby Boxes"

In this episode, Dr. Bryan Pilkington speaks with Dr. Lori Bruce on the ethical concerns surrounding baby boxes—devices used for the anonymous surrender of infants under Safe Haven laws. While good intentioned, Bruce argues these boxes lack regulation, informed consent, and support for vulnerable mothers. Evidence-based alternatives like confidential births and crisis counseling to better support families are discussed.

Dr. Lori Bruce is Associate Director, Center for Bioethics, at the Yale School of Medicine.

Episode Resources:
Summer bioethics program:
https://bioethics.yale.edu/summer

Article about supported/confidential birth:
https://bioethicstoday.org/blog/the-us-needs-confidential-birth/

Open letter to HHS about box regulations:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XDZMxjLSZPDUdOKT1yWHAf_e8vxW1QayxSgX3auANGE/

Token: Handmade paper and textile heart [Foundling Museum]
https://foundlingmuseum.org.uk/object/token-handmade-paper-and-textile-heart/