Early hearing detection is critical to a child’s development. Our newborn screening program ensures hearing issues are identified as soon as possible. This sets the stage for timely care, confident communication, and healthy growth.
Newborn Hearing Screening
Why It Matters
Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions present at birth, affecting 3 in every 1,000 babies. Since hearing loss isn’t visible, it often goes undiagnosed without early screening. Newborns learn to speak by listening, and the first three years are crucial for language development. Identifying hearing concerns early helps ensure your baby can meet important developmental milestones at home, in school, and beyond.
How It Works
We perform a gentle, non-invasive test called the Automated Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) in the hospital nursery. The results are either:
PASS:
Your baby’s hearing is within normal limits. No further testing is needed.
REFER:
This doesn’t always mean hearing loss. A follow-up screening is needed to be sure.
Follow-Up & Support
If your baby was referred:
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We will help schedule an audiology evaluation.
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Testing should be done on both ears, even if only one was flagged.
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Ask for ABR testing again, for consistency with the hospital screening.
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If your baby refers in-patient and out-patient screening, we recommend diagnostic testing with a licensed audiologist to determine next steps. We encourage completing this follow-up by 1 month of age, and no later than 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hearing Milestones to Watch For
Every child develops at their own pace, but these are helpful signs to monitor:
Adapted from American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines.
0–3 months
What to Look For:
Startles to loud sounds, quiets to your voice
3-6 months
What to Look For:
Turns toward sounds, coos, or babbles to music
6-12 months
What to Look For:
Recognizes names, enjoys sound toys, responds to “Da-Da” or “Ma-Ma”
12-18 months
What to Look For:
Says first words, responds to questions or favorite toys
18-24 months
What to Look For:
Says 20+ words, starts forming two-word phrases, follows simple directions
24-36 months
What to Look For:
Vocabulary grows to 1,000 words, forms sentences, understands most spoken language
Hearing loss is the most common newborn condition identified in the NICU, making early screening a vital part of comprehensive neonatal care.
Frequently asked questions
Need Help or Have Questions?
Our Hearing Screeners and Patient Accounting Advocates are happy to support you.