Key takeaways: Newborn hearing screening is recommended for all babies by 1 month, with a full evaluation by 3 months for babies who don’t pass, and early intervention by 6 months if hearing loss is confirmed. A passed newborn screen doesn’t rule out later hearing loss. Watch for babies who don’t startle to loud sounds, turn toward voices, or babble as expected.
Hearing is essential for learning language. Early detection makes a big difference.
Newborn Hearing Screening
The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing recommends the “1-3-6” guideline:
- 1 month: hearing screening.
- 3 months: full diagnostic evaluation for babies who didn’t pass.
- 6 months: early intervention services for babies with hearing loss.
Many states and programs now aim for even earlier timelines (1-2-3).
If Your Baby Doesn’t Pass
Not passing the screen doesn’t always mean hearing loss. Fluid or debris in the ears can affect results. Always follow up with the recommended testing.
Hearing Loss Can Develop Later
Causes include:
- Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
- Frequent ear infections with fluid.
- Family history.
- Some medications and illnesses, like meningitis.
- NICU stays.
Signs to Watch For
By 2 months: reacts to loud sounds.
By 4 months: turns head toward your voice.
By 6 months: takes turns making sounds with you.
By 9 months: looks when you call their name; babbles sounds like “mamama.”
By 12 months: understands “no,” and may say a word like “mama” or “dada.”
These are from the CDC’s milestone checklists.
If You’re Concerned
- Talk to your pediatrician. Trust your instincts.
- Ask for a referral to a pediatric audiologist. Babies of any age can be tested.
- Contact early intervention if hearing loss is confirmed.
Support Options
Depending on the type and level of hearing loss, options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, sign language, and speech therapy.
The Bottom Line
Follow up on newborn screening results and watch for hearing milestones. Early detection and support help language development.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Sources
- Joint Committee on Infant Hearing. Year 2019 position statement: principles and guidelines for early hearing detection and intervention programs. J Early Hear Detect Interv. 2019;4(2):1-44.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hearing loss in children; Early Hearing Detection and Intervention. https://www.cdc.gov/hearing-loss-children
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Hearing screening and testing. https://www.asha.org
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
