Newborn hearing screening is a quick, painless test done in the first days or weeks of life to identify babies who may have hearing loss. Finding hearing loss early means support can start before speech and language are affected.
Key takeaways
- The test is usually done while the baby sleeps, using a soft earpiece or sensors.
- Not getting a clear response does not mean the baby has hearing loss; further tests are needed.
- Hearing can change later, so keep an eye on responses to sound.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor at any age if your baby does not startle at loud sounds, does not turn towards voices by about 6 months, or is not babbling by 10 months.
