The Medical City ENT Center
2/F Podium Bldg.
Contact Numbers
(632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 local 6251
(632) 689-8201 (direct line)
Open daily from 8:00AM to 5:00PM except Sundays and Holidays
All procedures are by appointment only.
PATIENT SERVICES / DIAGNOSIS CENTER
Newborn Hearing Screening and Evaluation in the Philippines
What Is Newborn Hearing Screening?
Newborn hearing screening is a simple, non-invasive test that is done shortly after birth to determine if a baby has hearing loss.
Why Is Newborn Hearing Screening Important?
Newborn hearing screening in the Philippines is important because it allows for early detection and intervention of hearing loss. This is crucial because babies who are identified with hearing loss early on have a better chance of developing language and communication skills similar to their peers without hearing loss. The first few years of a child's life are critical for language development, so any delays or deficiencies in this area can significantly impact the child's overall development.
How Is Newborn Hearing Screening Done?
Newborn hearing screening is typically done using one of two methods: otoacoustic emissions (OAE) or auditory brainstem response (ABR). Both tests are simple, painless, and can be completed while the baby is asleep. For OAE testing, a small earphone and microphone is placed in the baby's ear to measure how the inner ear responds to sound. ABR testing involves placing three small sensors on the baby's head to measure how the auditory nerve responds to sounds.
How Long Does the Newborn Hearing Screening Take?
The newborn hearing screening typically takes only a few minutes per ear. It's a quick and non-invasive process.
Are There Any Risks Involved with Newborn Hearing Screening?
Newborn hearing screening is a low-risk procedure that is generally well-tolerated by infants. There is a very small risk of false positives or false negatives, but these are rare occurrences. It is important to note that the screening itself does not diagnose hearing loss, but rather identifies babies who may need further testing and intervention.
Can I Refuse the Newborn Hearing Test?
We recommend all babies to undergo newborn hearing screening, however it is ultimately the parent's decision to consent or refuse the test. It is important to consider the potential benefits of early detection and intervention for hearing loss before making a decision to refuse the test.
How Accurate Are the Results?
The accuracy of the results is quite high. Newborn hearing screening tests are designed to detect most hearing issues early. However, it's important to note that while they are very accurate, no screening test is 100% perfect. False positives and false negatives can occur. If a potential issue is detected during the screening, further evaluations and follow-up tests will be conducted to confirm the results and determine the appropriate course of action.
What Happens If My Baby Does Not Pass the Newborn Hearing Screening?
If your baby does not pass the newborn hearing screening, it does not necessarily mean that they have permanent hearing loss. Sometimes, the baby may simply need to be retested in a few weeks or months for various reasons such as fluid in the ear or difficulty during testing. If the baby still does not pass after multiple screenings, further testing will be recommended to determine if there is a hearing loss and the severity of it.
Early intervention services and support will also be provided to help your child's communication and language development. Additionally, there are resources available for families to help them navigate and understand the diagnosis of hearing loss in their child.
What If My Baby Is Born Premature or Has Other Health Complications?
Babies who are born prematurely or have other medical complications may have a higher risk for hearing loss. In these cases, it is even more important to make sure a newborn hearing test in the Philippines is completed in a timely manner. If your baby falls into this category, be sure to inform your healthcare provider so that they can take any necessary precautions or additional testing.
How Often Should It Be Done?
Newborn hearing screening is typically done once shortly after birth, but it can also be repeated if the baby does not pass on the first attempt. However, it is important to note that even if a baby passes the initial screening, parents should continue to monitor their child’s language and communication development as hearing loss can still develop later on. It is recommended for children to have their hearing checked at regular intervals throughout childhood, especially if there are risk factors present.