Taflenni - Prawf sgrinio clyw eich babi
This leaflet explains:
- why we have offered a hearing screening test
- when and where the test is done
- how the test is done
- what the results mean
All babies are offered health checks in the first few weeks of their life. One of these checks is hearing screening. Tests used for hearing screening are quick and simple with no risk of harm to your baby. Some babies need more than one test. You can choose whether or not your baby has hearing screening.
Why screen my baby's hearing?
One or two babies in every 1000 are born with a hearing loss. Most of these babies will be born into families where no-one else has a hearing loss. It is not easy for parents to tell if a young baby has a hearing loss. Finding out early is important for a baby’s development. It also means that support and information can be offered right from the start.
Screening does not detect all hearing loss or prevent future hearing difficulties.
When and where the test is done
The test will usually be done in the first few weeks of life. If your baby is born in hospital, you may be offered the test before you go home. If not, it can be done at home or in a local clinic.
How the test is done
A trained screener will carry out the test. The screening test is done while your baby is settled or asleep. It will not hurt your baby or feel uncomfortable. The test only takes a few minutes. You can stay with your baby while the test is done.
One or both of these tests will be used:
A small soft-tipped earpiece is put in the outer part of your baby’s ear. This makes a clicking sound. A computer shows the screener how your baby’s ears are responding to the sound.
Three small sticky pads are put on your baby’s head and neck. Small headphones are put over your baby’s ears, which will make a clicking sound. A computer shows the screener how your baby’s ears are responding to the sound.
The test result
The screener will tell you the result of the test straightaway, and explain if another test is needed.
What the result means
If there is a clear response from one or both of your baby’s ears it is unlikely that your baby has a hearing loss. The screener will give you information on how babies respond to sound as they grow and what to do if you have any worries about your baby’s hearing.
If only one of your baby’s ears shows a clear response, you may choose to have another hearing test. The screener will give you more information.
If neither of your baby’s ears shows a clear response, it does not necessarily mean your baby has a hearing loss. Clear responses may also not be seen if:
- the baby is unsettled;
- there is fluid in the ear after birth;
- there is too much noise near the baby when the test is done.
We will offer you another hearing test. Most babies will have this at home or in a clinic. The screener will give you more information about the next test for your baby.
After these tests about 1 or 2 in every 100 babies will need tests in a special hospital clinic. These tests also need to be done when a baby is still likely to sleep a lot during the day. We will send an appointment for this test within 4 weeks. This allows time for your baby’s hearing pathway to develop.
Waiting for another hearing screening test at home or in hospital can be worrying. If you have any questions, you can ask your health visitor or contact the screening programme.
Finding out more
If you have any questions, comments or suggestions about Newborn Hearing Screening Wales, please phone us on the number below:
North Wales: 01978 727005
Mid & West Wales: 01656 754085
South East Wales: 029 2074 3568
Textphone: 029 2078 7811
If you have a complaint, please write to:
The Director of Screening Services
18 Cathedral Road
Cardiff
CF11 9LH
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