Is it safe? · Pregnancy Smart
Newborn hearing screening: results and next steps
What does the evidence say about newborn hearing screening?
- Two common screening methods examine responses to sound without requiring a baby to deliberately respond. Otoacoustic emissions use a small earphone to assess an ear response. Auditory brainstem response uses earphones and skin electrodes to assess the hearing nerve and brainstem response. Babies can rest or sleep during either screening. 1
- CDC describes the 1-3-6 benchmarks: screen by one month, complete a hearing evaluation by three months when screening is not passed, and begin appropriate early support by six months when hearing loss is confirmed. These are latest target ages, not reasons to postpone an available appointment. A missed date should prompt contact with the pediatric team now. 2
- A pediatric audiologist performs the follow-up assessment and explains whether a hearing difference exists, its type, and its extent. Ask the birth hospital or pediatric clinician to help arrange the visit. If you must cancel, reschedule promptly and keep the screening record available so the next clinician knows which ears and methods were assessed. 1
- A passed newborn screen does not guarantee that hearing will remain unchanged throughout childhood. Some hearing differences appear later or progress over time. Continue discussing communication milestones and any concerns with the pediatric team. Do not dismiss a new concern solely because the discharge paperwork recorded a pass. 1
Keep the hearing follow-up timeline visible
| Stage | Target | Parent next step |
|---|---|---|
| Screening | By 1 month, preferably before discharge | Obtain and keep the result. |
| Full hearing assessment when needed | By 3 months, as soon as possible | Book with pediatric audiology. |
| Early support when hearing loss is confirmed | By 6 months, as soon as possible | Discuss communication options and services. |
| Ongoing care | Throughout childhood | Raise new hearing or communication concerns. |
Frequently asked questions
Does a refer result mean my baby definitely has hearing loss?
No. A screening result identifies the need for a fuller assessment; it is not the final explanation. Arrange follow-up with a pediatric audiologist promptly. Ask for the result in writing and which ear or ears need evaluation so the next step is specific.
Can I wait to see whether my baby starts talking?
Do not delay a recommended hearing assessment until speech is expected. Early hearing information can guide communication support during an important period of development. CDC recommends a full evaluation by three months when the newborn screen is not passed, with earlier assessment when available.
Will the hearing screening hurt my newborn?
The screening methods described by NIDCD use soft earphones and, for auditory brainstem response, small skin electrodes. The baby can rest or sleep. Ask the staff to explain which method they are using and how they will position the equipment.
What if my baby was born outside a hospital?
Ask the baby’s clinician or local Early Hearing Detection and Intervention program how to arrange screening by one month of age. Do not assume it happens automatically after a home or out-of-hospital birth. Confirm the appointment and how you will receive the result.
Who performs a full hearing evaluation?
An audiologist with experience assessing infants evaluates hearing beyond the screening test. The assessment can include more than one method and a review of birth and family history. The pediatric clinician or birth hospital can help locate the appropriate service and share records.
What if the follow-up appointment is after three months?
Tell the pediatric team and audiology service that the visit follows a newborn screen needing evaluation. Ask about an earlier appointment or another appropriate service. If the recommended timing has already passed, keep pursuing assessment now rather than waiting for a later developmental milestone.
Does a pass mean I can ignore later hearing concerns?
No. Hearing can change after the newborn period. Discuss concerns about responses to sound or communication development with the pediatric team, even after a previous pass. Ask whether family history, infections, or other individual factors call for additional monitoring.
Is early support limited to hearing aids?
No. Support is individualized and may include hearing devices, signed or spoken language approaches, and other communication services. The hearing team should explain options and help your family participate in the plan. Early access to language and communication is the goal, not a single device for every child.
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References
Your Baby's Hearing Screening and Next Steps
NIDCD · https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/your-babys-hearing-screening-and-next-steps
CDC · https://www.cdc.gov/hearing-loss-children/screening/index.html
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.