Newborn Hearing Screens

The sooner hearing loss is detected, the sooner your baby can receive early interventions and resources that can help him or her learn and better communicate later in life. For this reason, it is recommended that every newborn be screened for hearing loss shortly after birth so that treatment is more effective.  However, if your newborn did not receive a hearing screen, we can screen anyone of any age for hearing loss here at Natural Birth Services. ​

What should I know about newborn hearing testing?

• The test is safe, painless and can be done in about 10-20 minutes
• Most babies sleep through the test
• An infant with a hearing loss may cry or appear to respond to sounds just like babies with normal hearing. Only a hearing test can tell you if your baby has a hearing loss. 

Why should my baby's hearing be tested?

• Most babies can hear well at birth, but a few do not. 
• All babies are tested to make sure they are hearing normally.
• It is important to find hearing loss as soon as possible. If hearing loss is found early, it is easier for babies to learn.
• There are many ways to help you baby right away if hearing loss is found. 

Why do some babies not pass the hearing test?

• Some babies may need another test because:
  • ​​Fluid in the ear
  • Noise in the test room
  • Baby was moving a lot
  • Baby has hearing loss
• Most babies who need another test have normal hearing. Some will have hearing loss. 

Can a newborn baby pass the hearing test and still have a hearing loss?

• Yes, some babies hear well enough to pass the first test, but lose their hearing later because of:
  • Some illnesses
  • Some medicines
  • Some injuries
  • A family history of hearing loss
• Watch for signs of hearing loss as your baby grows
• Use the list below as a guide

Some things a baby with normal speech, language and hearing should be able to do.

Birth to 3 Months

• Blinks or startles when there is a sudden loud sound
• Quiets or smiles when spoken to
• Makes sounds like "ohh" and "ahh"

4 to 6 Months

• Look for sounds with eyes
• Uses many sounds, squeals, and chuckles
• Makes different sounds when excited or angry

7 Months to 1 Year

• Turns head toward loud sounds
• Understands "no-no" or "bye-bye"
• Babbles, for example "baba," "mamma," "gaga"
• Repeats simple words and sounds you make
• Correctly uses "mama" or "dada"
• Responds to singing or music
• Points to favorite toys and objects when asked