Newborn Hearing Screening: Understanding Failed Tests & Next Steps
For moms-to-be getting close to their due date, there’s nothing more important than having a healthy baby. It’s an exciting time, but it’s also normal to feel a little worried. Doctors often stress how important it is to follow medical advice during pregnancy, like going to checkups and eating well, to help things go smoothly. According to NICHDevelopments, getting early prenatal care can lead to healthier outcomes for both moms and babies, helping to lower the risk of avoidable problems.
Once your baby is born, checking their health doesn’t stop. Hospitals do several tests to make sure everything is okay, like checking their weight and heart rate. One of these tests is the newborn hearing screening, which helps spot hearing issues early on. But what if your baby doesn’t pass the hearing test? How often does this happen, and should you be concerned?
What Is the Newborn Hearing Test and How Does It Work?
After a baby is born, one of the first health checks they get is a hearing test. This test helps find out if the baby’s hearing is developing as it should. There are two common types of hearing tests for newborns:
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
Tiny earphones are placed in the baby’s ears, and they play soft sounds. At the same time, small stickers are put on the baby’s head to measure how the brain reacts to the sounds. This checks if the hearing nerves are working properly.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)
A small earphone with a microphone is gently placed in the baby’s ear. It plays sounds and listens for an echo coming from the baby’s inner ear. If there’s no echo, it might be a sign of hearing trouble.
Both tests are quick, gentle, and painless. Babies are usually still or asleep during the test to make sure the results are accurate.
How Accurate Are Newborn Hearing Tests?
Newborn hearing tests are very reliable. The ABR test is great at finding problems with how the hearing nerves and brain process sound, while the OAE test checks how well the inner ear is working. These tests can catch even small issues with hearing early on.
Why Do Some Newborns Fail Their Hearing Test the First Time?
It’s pretty common for newborns to not pass their hearing test on the first try. Around 2-10% of babies fail the test at first, but most of them pass when tested again later. A failed test doesn’t always mean there’s a serious problem—there are often simple reasons for it.
Common Reasons for a Failed Test
Fluid in the Ears
Newborns often have fluid or leftover debris in their ears after birth, which can block sound and make the test results unclear.
Noisy Room
If the testing area is too noisy, it can interfere with the equipment and make it harder to get accurate results.
Baby’s Movements
A baby who is moving, crying, or not settled during the test might not give the equipment enough time to measure things correctly.
Being Born Early
Premature babies’ ears might not be fully developed, which can affect the test results. These babies may need extra tests later on.
Equipment Problems
Occasionally, the testing equipment doesn’t work perfectly, which could also cause a failed result.
Can Newborns Fail Their Hearing Test in One Ear or Both?
Yes, it’s possible for a newborn to fail their hearing test in just one ear or both. This is fairly common and doesn’t always mean there’s a serious problem. Often, temporary issues like fluid in the ears or the baby not staying still during the test can cause unclear results.
What to Do If Your Baby Fails the Hearing Test
If your baby doesn’t pass their hearing test, here’s what you can do:
Schedule a Second Test
Doctors usually recommend taking the test again in a few weeks. This gives time for temporary issues like fluid to clear up.
See a Specialist
If your baby fails the follow-up test, the doctor may refer you to a hearing specialist, known as an audiologist. They can do more detailed tests to check your baby’s hearing.
Watch for Hearing Signs
Pay attention to how your baby reacts to sounds. Do they startle at loud noises? Look toward voices? These reactions can show how well they hear.
Follow Doctor’s Advice
Depending on the situation, your baby might need more tests or treatments to address anything affecting their hearing.
Stay Calm and Hopeful
Many babies pass the second test after failing the first one. Even if there’s a hearing issue, finding it early means there’s time to help them with proper care.
Should You Worry If Your Baby Fails a Hearing Test?
If your baby doesn’t pass their hearing test, it’s natural to feel concerned, but try not to panic. Most babies who fail at first pass when tested again later. Issues like fluid in the ears or movements during the test are often the cause. However, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor to be sure everything is okay.
Signs Your Baby Might Have Trouble Hearing
While waiting for a follow-up test, here are some signs you can watch for:
No Reaction to Loud Sounds
Babies usually startle or react to loud noises. If your baby doesn’t, mention it to your doctor.
Not Turning Toward Sounds
By 3 to 4 months, babies often turn their heads toward a voice or sound. If your baby doesn’t do this, it’s worth bringing up.
Not Babbling or Making Sounds
By 6 months, babies typically start babbling or making lots of noises. If this isn’t happening, talk to your doctor.
Staying Positive and Taking Action
If you’re worried about your baby’s hearing, the best step is to speak with your doctor. They might suggest another test or refer you to a hearing specialist if needed. Even if there is a hearing concern, catching it early means you can get help and support for your baby.
Remember to stay calm and focus on the next steps. With early attention and care, most hearing issues can be managed successfully.
