What Parents Need to Know About Newborn Hearing Screens in the Hospital
Welcoming your baby into the world is filled with emotions and important decisions. One of the very first health checks your newborn will receive is a newborn hearing screen, a quick and painless test typically performed before hospital discharge. While it might seem routine, this early screening plays a vital role in your baby’s long-term development.
Why Is Newborn Hearing Screening Important?
Hearing is essential for speech, language, and cognitive development. Undetected hearing loss can delay your baby’s communication milestones and lead to long-term learning challenges. Fortunately, early detection leads to early intervention—giving babies the best chance at reaching their full potential.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC recommend that all newborns:
Receive a hearing screen by 1 month of age
Have a diagnostic evaluation by 3 months if they do not pass
Begin intervention services by 6 months, if needed
How Is the Hearing Screen Performed?
In the hospital, your baby’s hearing is tested using one of two methods:
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE): A small probe is placed in the baby’s ear. It emits soft sounds and measures the echo that comes back from the inner ear.
Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR): Small electrodes are placed on the baby’s head to measure how the brain responds to sound.
Both tests are quick, safe, and done while your baby is asleep or resting.
What If My Baby Doesn’t Pass the Screening?
It’s important to know that not passing the initial hearing screen doesn’t always mean your baby has permanent hearing loss. Common reasons for a “refer” result include:
Vernix or fluid in the ear
Movement or crying during the test
Ear canal blockage
If your baby does not pass, a follow-up hearing test will be scheduled—often before one month of age. It’s essential not to delay this next step.
Supporting Families Through the Process
At NEOwell, we understand how stressful the early days after birth can be—especially if your baby is in the NICU or facing unexpected medical tests. Our team offers:
Education on newborn screenings and what results mean
Guidance on follow-up testing and referrals
Support through text check-ins, postpartum visits, and NICU follow-up care
We help families understand medical information and navigate appointments so nothing gets missed during this critical period.
Supporting Developmental Milestones From the Day One
Newborn hearing screens are a small but powerful tool in safeguarding your baby’s development. If your child requires follow-up testing or support, you’re not alone. NEOwell is here to walk with you—whether your baby is in the NICU or heading home for the first time.
Need help understanding your newborn’s hearing screen?
Reach out to NEOwell to speak with a specialist who can help you take the next steps with confidence.