OAE Test for Newborn Hearing Screening: What Parents Should Know

Welcoming a new baby is a moment filled with joy and hope. As parents, we do everything to ensure our little one is healthy and safe. A critical part of a baby’s health checkup is the OAE test for newborn hearing screening. This simple test helps doctors find out if your baby can hear properly. Early testing is necessary because hearing plays a key role in learning to speak, interact, and grow socially.

In many hospitals, the OAE test is now a routine part of newborn checkups. It takes only a few minutes and is completely painless. It can play a big role in spotting hearing problems early. If any issues are found, steps can be taken quickly to improve the baby’s hearing and speech development. In this blog, we’ll explain how the test works, why it’s important, and what to expect. 

What Is the OAE Test?

OAE stands for Otoacoustic Emissions. It is a special hearing test used mainly for newborns and infants. This test checks if the inner part of the ear, known as the cochlea, is working well.

How the OAE Test Works

• A small, soft probe is gently placed into your baby’s ear.
• The probe sends soft clicking sounds.
• If the cochlea is working properly, it produces a faint echo (called an emission).
• This echo is picked up by the probe and recorded.

The test is quick, safe, and does not hurt your baby. It is often used as the first newborn hearing screening test in hospitals.

Why Is Newborn Hearing Screening Important?

The importance of newborn hearing screening cannot be stressed enough. Babies start learning from sounds right from birth. If a baby can’t hear well, it can delay speech and language skills.

Top Reasons to Screen Early:

• Hearing issues affect 1 to 3 babies out of every 1,000 births.
• Babies start learning language from the moment they’re born.
• Early detection means early help, leading to better outcomes.

If the first test finds something unusual, doctors might recommend a second test or a detailed check like the BERA test. This ensures your baby gets the right help at the right time.

OAE vs. BERA: What’s the Difference?

Both tests help detect hearing loss, but they serve different purposes.

How Is the OAE Test Performed on Newborns?

The test is very simple and is usually done while your baby is sleeping or resting.

Step-by-Step Process:

• Calming the Baby: Your baby is gently placed in a quiet room or nursery. It’s best if the baby is calm, resting, or asleep. Crying or movement can affect the results, so a peaceful environment helps.
• Inserting the Probe: A soft, tiny probe is gently inserted into your baby’s outer ear canal. This probe is connected to a handheld or portable screening device.
• Playing Soft Sounds: The machine sends a series of soft clicks or tones into the ear. These sounds are low and won’t bother your baby.
• Measuring the Echo: If the inner ear (cochlea) is working properly, it produces a tiny sound in response—called an otoacoustic emission. The machine picks up this sound and records it.
• Instant Results: The test only takes 5 to 10 minutes. Once done, the device shows whether the baby’s ear “passed” or needs a “refer” (follow-up check). Parents are informed right away.

It’s that easy. There’s no discomfort or preparation needed.

Understanding the Results of an OAE Test

After the test, results will either be a “pass” or “refer.”

• Pass: Baby’s ears are working as expected.
• Refer: The test could not detect clear signals. This doesn’t always mean hearing loss.

There are many reasons a baby may not pass the first time:

• Fluid in the ear (especially common in C-section births)
• Noise in the testing room
• Blocked ear canal
• True hearing loss

A follow-up test is often done to confirm.

What If My Baby Doesn’t Pass the Test?

Stay calm—it’s common for babies to be retested after a few days or weeks

What happens next?

• Non-invasive: No needles, no pain, no sedation required.
• Quick and Easy: This can be done while the baby sleeps—no extra effort.
• Reliable: Helps catch hearing issues early for quick action.
• Safe for All Babies: Suitable for full-term and premature newborns alike.

If your baby was not tested at birth, or if you’re unsure about the results, don’t worry. You can always book a follow-up hearing test in Delhi at a certified clinic. 

Where to Get a Newborn Hearing Test?

Most hospitals offer newborn hearing screening before discharge. However, if it wasn’t done or you want a second opinion, you can visit a reliable Hearing Care Clinic in Delhi.

These clinics provide:

• Professional screening and diagnosis
• Friendly staff and baby-safe equipment
• Personalized care and guidance

You can also book an appointment for a hearing test in Delhi at any certified audiology centre.

Benefits of Early Hearing Loss Diagnosis

Detecting hearing loss early leads to better outcomes in speech, education, and social development.

Major Benefits:

• Speech Development: Children can learn to speak clearly if treated early.
• Social Growth: Helps the child build friendships and confidence.
• Hearing Devices: Hearing aids or cochlear implants can be used sooner.
• Parental Support: Early help allows families to plan for their child’s needs.

Early help can change the future for your baby.

Conclusion

The OAE test for newborn hearing screening is one of the easiest and most effective ways to check your baby’s hearing right after birth. It’s quick, gentle, and can open the door to early help if needed. If the test finds something unusual, don’t worry—there are more tests like the BERA test to confirm. What’s important is acting early.

If you’re in the capital, visit a professional audiologist in Delhi or a certified hearing care clinic for accurate testing. Ensuring your child hears well from the beginning can make a big difference in their future.