Newborn/Infant Screenings
Early Detection for a Lifetime of Communication
Learn about the importance of newborn hearing screenings and how they can help your child thrive.
Why Newborn Hearing Screenings Are Important
Hearing is essential for a child’s speech and language development. Detecting hearing loss early allows for timely intervention, helping your child reach their full potential.
- Most babies are born with healthy hearing, but some may experience hearing loss. Newborn hearing screenings are a safe and painless way to identify potential issues.
- Early intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s ability to communicate and learn, which is why newborn hearing screenings are recommended for all infants.
- Hearing loss can impact a child’s social and emotional development. Early detection ensures they receive the necessary support for a bright future.
A gentle and painless process
Newborn hearing screenings are quick and non-invasive. They are typically performed before your baby leaves the hospital, but sometimes:
- Insurance may not cover the screening.
- Out-of-pocket expenses may be too high.
- The screening may have been missed in the hospital.
If your baby didn’t receive a screening at birth, we are here to help.
Types of Newborn Hearing Screenings
There are two main types of hearing tests for newborns:
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE):
- A small probe is placed in your baby’s ear.
- Soft sounds are played, and the probe measures the response from the inner ear.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR):
- Small sensors are placed on your baby’s head.
- The test measures how your baby’s brain responds to sounds.
- This test is often used if the OAE test is inconclusive.
Your baby may sleep through the screening, or it can be performed while they are calm and quiet.
- The screening takes only a few minutes and is completely safe for your baby.
Understanding the Screening Results
Pass: Your baby’s hearing is likely within the normal range. However, hearing can change over time, so continued monitoring is recommended.
Refer: This does not necessarily mean your baby has hearing loss, but further testing is needed to ensure accurate results.
If your baby receives a ‘refer’ result, we will provide guidance on scheduling a follow-up appointment with an audiologist for a more comprehensive evaluation.
Early follow-up is crucial to determine if intervention is needed and to support your baby’s development.
Follow-Up and Support : We're Here To Help
At Family First Hearing Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive hearing care for your child.
- If further testing or intervention is needed, our team will guide you through the process and offer ongoing support.
- We provide diagnostic testing, hearing aid fittings, aural rehabilitation, and other pediatric hearing services.
- Our specialists will connect you with resources and information to support your family in navigating hearing health concerns.
- We encourage all parents to be proactive about their child’s hearing and schedule necessary follow-ups.