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Newborn & Pediatric Hearing Screening Centre

Why Does My Baby Need to Have a Newborn Auditory Screening?

Hearing impairment is a common congenital condition. In Singapore, approximately 1 in every 1,000 infants is born with significant hearing loss. Without early detection, this condition can potentially lead to delays in speech, language, and cognitive development.

 

A newborn auditory screening is a non-invasive, initial assessment tool. Identifying hearing loss at this early stage allows our qualified audiologists to recommend timely interventions. Early action is important for supporting your child's language and speech development.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss in Babies & Children?

Recognizing potential hearing loss in children depends on their age. These common signs your child may need hearing support include unresponsiveness to auditory stimuli, such as their name, noticeable delays in language acquisition, and challenges with hearing comprehension in noisy settings. You might also observe unclear speech or a consistent need for high television volume.

For Babies (under 1 year old)

For infants under 12 months, be aware of the following:

Older Children

For toddlers and school-age children, indicators may present as:

What Causes Hearing Loss at an Early Age?

Hearing loss in infants and children can be congenital or acquired. The causes are varied, spanning from inherited genetic factors to infections or complications during birth. A newborn hearing screening is designed to identify these issues promptly, as the cause is often not apparent.

Genetic Factors

Hearing impairment can be passed down in families (inherited). In some cases, it may be one characteristic of a larger syndrome that includes other medical or physical conditions.

Infections

Birth Complications

Infants born prematurely or those requiring critical support in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may have a higher statistical risk for hearing impairment.

Ear Infections

Frequent middle ear infections (otitis media), particularly with fluid buildup, can prevent the ear from functioning properly and may lead to temporary or, in some cases, lasting hearing damage.

Head Trauma

Significant trauma to the skull can compromise the sensitive inner workings of the ear, causing a permanent or temporary reduction in hearing.

Loud Noise Exposure

The auditory system in young children is sensitive. Sustained exposure to high volumes (noise-induced hearing loss) can damage the inner ear over time.

Ototoxic Medications

Certain necessary medications, including some antibiotics or chemotherapy agents, are known to have ototoxic properties, meaning they can be toxic to the ear and cause auditory damage.

 

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What Are the Common Infant & Pediatric Hearing Tests?

Several hearing screenings are designed to evaluate a newborn’s hearing abilities at various stages of development. These tests are non-invasive and provide valuable insights into the child's auditory health.


1. Infant Newborn Screening: OAE Hearing Screening

OAE (Otoacoustic Emissions) hearing screening is commonly used for newborns and young children, typically up to 3 years of age. It's also an appropriate tool for older children who may not be able to complete a behavioral test.

2. Pediatric Hearing Test: Behavioral Audiometry Test for Infants (7 Months to 2 Years)

Behavioral audiometry is a standard method used for screening hearing in infants. By exposing the infant to sounds like rattles or drums, audiologists observe the infant’s reactions to various sound stimuli. This test helps evaluate if there are any signs of hearing loss or if further tests are required.

3. Pediatric Hearing Test: Sound Field Testing with Visual Reinforcement for Toddlers (1 year old to 3 years old)

Sound field testing with visual reinforcement is a reliable hearing test for toddlers. The child is exposed to sounds from loudspeakers, and when they respond by turning their head toward the sound, they are rewarded with a visual stimulus, such as a light or moving picture. This method helps assess hearing thresholds in toddlers who may not be able to respond verbally.

4. Pediatric Hearing Test: Conditioned Play Audiometry (CPA) for Toddlers (2 to 5 Years Old)

Conditioned play audiometry (CPA) is a practical test for toddlers. In this screening, the child wears headphones and is instructed to perform a simple task, such as touching a toy or placing a block in a box, every time they hear a sound. CPA provides valuable information on the child’s hearing abilities and helps identify hearing issues with increased specificity.

What are the Benefits of Newborn Auditory Screening?

Boosts Language and Communication Skills

Early hearing detection through screening ensures newborns or infants receive timely intervention, significantly enhancing their ability to develop language and communication skills on par with their peers. Identifying hearing issues early allows access to procedures that foster clear speech and social interactions.

Supports Cognitive and Academic Growth

Timely intervention through amplification and intervention aids cognitive development, laying a strong foundation for academic success. Incorporating active ear protection, especially in noisy environments, helps preserve residual hearing.

Improves Emotional and Social Well-Being

Detecting and addressing hearing loss early helps children build confidence, form meaningful relationships, and integrate into social environments. Emotional resilience grows as they feel understood and supported.

When Will My Baby Have His/Her Pediatric Hearing Screening?

The initial pediatric hearing screening is ideally performed before your baby is discharged from the hospital, usually within the first few days after birth.

 

If a hearing screening for newborn babies is not completed at the hospital, it is recommended to have the test performed no later than one month of age.

 

If your baby does not pass the initial screening or receives a "refer" result, a comprehensive hearing assessment is recommended. This full evaluation should be completed before three months of age to support positive speech and language development outcomes.

What Does it Mean if My Baby Passes the Newborn Hearing Screening?

Receiving a "pass" result on the newborn auditory screening indicates that your baby's auditory response was within the normal range at the time the test was performed. This is a positive outcome for their immediate developmental outlook.

 

However, it is still necessary for parents to monitor their child's developmental milestones, as some forms of hearing impairment may develop or become apparent later in childhood.

What a Passing Result Means

A passing result suggests that your baby's hearing is sufficient to begin processing speech and developing language. It is a strong, positive indicator of normal auditory function at birth. However, the screening is designed to identify issues present at birth and not a complete evaluation of the entire auditory pathway.

Why You Should Still Be Vigilant

Some forms of hearing loss are progressive or acquired, meaning they may not be present at birth. Causes can include genetic predispositions that appear later, recurrent middle ear infections, or specific illnesses.

 

Continuous observation of your child's response to sound and their progress in speech development is advisable. If you have any concerns about your child's hearing at any age, consult a qualified audiologist.

What If My Baby Does Not Pass Hearing Screening for Newborns?

Receiving a "refer" result from the hearing screening for newborns can be worrying, but it is not a definite indication of hearing loss. It simply indicates that a more detailed assessment is required.

 

It is advised to schedule this follow-up appointment with a pediatric audiologist promptly. The goal is to complete the screening by the time your baby is three months old. This timeline allows for the best possible outcomes in speech and hearing development, should an impairment be present.

Why a Follow-Up is Necessary

  • Screening vs. Diagnosis: The initial screening is a simple pass/refer test. It is designed to identify infants who need more evaluation. It cannot determine the type or degree of a hearing impairment, or if one exists at all.
  • Common Reasons for a "Refer": A newborn may receive a "refer" result for reasons other than permanent hearing loss. Temporary fluid in the middle ear from the birthing process or even slight noise in the testing room can affect the results.
  • Confirming Hearing Status: While many infants who "refer" on the screening have typical hearing, some do have an underlying auditory deficit. A complete follow-up test is the only way to confirm the baby's auditory status.

What to Do

  • Speak with Your Doctor: Discuss the screening results with your pediatrician to obtain a referral for a thorough audiological evaluation.
  • Schedule with an Audiologist: Schedule a pediatric hearing screening with a qualified audiologist.
  • Undergo Further Testing: The audiologist will perform a detailed evaluation using non-invasive tests to measure your baby's auditory responses definitively.
  • Begin Early Intervention: If a hearing loss is confirmed, your audiologist will guide you through all the available options. This may include a pediatric hearing aid trial and fitting with solutions from brands like Phonak and Unitron, guidance on cochlear implants, or other support services to promote your child's development.

Why Newborn Hearing Screening Matters?

Early newborn hearing screenings are crucial for their speech, language, and cognitive development.

 

At 20dB Hearing, we provide thorough hearing evaluations to detect potential issues early. Unmanaged hearing loss can impact a child's ability to communicate, learn, and socialize. Our audiologists use screening tools to ensure reliable results and tailor solutions for each child’s needs. Prioritize your newborn’s auditory health with a professional assessment at 20dB Hearing.

 

Trust Our Audiologists for Comprehensive Care!

Ensure your child’s hearing health with a detailed pediatric hearing assessment from audiologists. Our team of audiologists uses techniques to evaluate your child’s auditory abilities and provide personalized care, which may include solutions like a hearing aid. Schedule an appointment today to safeguard your child’s hearing and overall development.

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How Do I Book a Pediatric Hearing Screening?

Monitor your child’s hearing health with a children’s hearing test from an audiologist. Our team of audiologists will evaluate your child’s hearing abilities and provide personalized care. Schedule an appointment today to support your child’s hearing and overall development.


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