Discover the life-changing power of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS). Learn about the quick, painless tests (OAE and AABR) performed by audiologists at Acoustik Hearing, and why early detection is vital for your baby's speech, language, and development.

Why Universal Newborn Hearing Screening is Essential for Every Baby

Hearing loss is one of the most common congenital conditions, yet it is often invisible at birth. For a baby, the first six months of life are a critical window for developing speech and language. If hearing loss is not identified and managed early, it can lead to significant delays in communication, social, and academic skills later on.

This is where Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS) comes in. UNHS ensures that every baby, regardless of risk factors, has their hearing checked shortly after birth, typically before leaving the hospital. At Acoustik Hearing and Speech Clinic, we are dedicated to supporting this vital first step in your child's journey to healthy development.

Did You Know? The goal of early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) programs is often summarized by the 1-3-6 rule: Screening by 1 month of age, Diagnosis by 3 months of age, and Intervention started by 6 months of age.

The Life-Changing Benefits of Early Detection

The primary benefit of UNHS is the ability to provide early intervention. Studies consistently show that babies who receive intervention for hearing loss by six months of age develop language (spoken or signed) and communication skills far better than those whose diagnosis is delayed.

• Improved Language & Speech: Early access to sound through hearing aids or cochlear implants stimulates the auditory pathways in the brain, leading to better receptive and expressive language skills.

• Stronger Social & Emotional Growth: Being able to communicate effectively helps children build relationships and participate fully in their social environment.

• Better Academic Outcomes: Language skills form the foundation for literacy and learning, setting your child up for success in school.

How is the Hearing Screen Performed? (It's Quick and Painless!)

Newborn hearing screening is safe, non-invasive, and painless—most babies sleep right through it! The screen uses sophisticated technology to check how your baby's ear and brain respond to sound.

Two main types of tests may be used:

1. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)

   • What it is: A tiny probe is placed gently in your baby's ear canal. It plays soft sounds and measures the "echo" (the emission) produced by the healthy outer hair cells in the cochlea (inner ear).

   • What it checks: Primarily checks the function of the inner ear.

2. Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR)

   • What it is: Small, harmless sensors (electrodes) are placed on the baby, and small earphones deliver soft sounds. The sensors measure how the hearing nerve and brainstem respond to the sound.

   • What it checks: Assesses the function of the entire auditory pathway, from the inner ear up to the brainstem. This test can also detect conditions like Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD).

Understanding Your Baby's Screening Results

The results of the screening will simply be a PASS or a REFER (sometimes called 'Non-Pass').

• ✅ PASS: Congratulations! This is the expected result, indicating that your baby's hearing is within the normal range at the time of the screen.

• ⚠️ REFER: A 'Refer' result does not automatically mean your baby has hearing loss. It simply means a clearer reading could not be obtained at that time. Reasons for a 'Refer' can include:

  • Fluid or debris in the ear canal (very common right after birth).

  • The baby was moving or crying during the test.

  • A need for a more comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.

If your baby receives a 'Refer' result, the most crucial next step is to schedule a follow-up diagnostic appointment with a pediatric audiologist at Acoustik Hearing as soon as possible, and ideally before your baby is 3 months old.

Partner with Acoustik Hearing and Speech Clinic

As your local audiologist and hearing healthcare expert, Acoustik Hearing is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to provide the definitive hearing evaluation your baby needs after a 'Refer' result. We are committed to providing compassionate care, accurate diagnosis, and timely guidance on early intervention options if hearing loss is confirmed.

Don't wait—early detection is the key to unlocking your child's full potential for communication and connection.