All Maine hospitals with birth facilities offer newborn hearing screening before babies go home. A hearing screening is a test to tell if an infant might have a hearing loss. Hearing loss can affect a child's ability to develop communication, language, and learning. Hearing screening is quick, easy, and does not hurt.
The screening method used at birth facilities is Automated Auditory Brainstem Response. Small sensors are placed on the baby's head and earphones are used. Soft sounds are presented while your baby sleeps naturally.
Hearing loss is the most commonly occurring disorder in infants in the U.S. and affects about 1 to 3 out of 1,000 babies born each year. Genetic factors are the cause of hearing loss in some babies, particularly those with a family history of hearing loss. Delayed detection of hearing loss can lead to communication, social, psychological, behavioral and educational challenges. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all infants be screened by 1 month of age, diagnosed by 3 months of age, and receive early intervention services no later than 6 months of age.
To learn more contact Anne Banger, Newborn Hearing Coordinator
Tel: (207) 287-8427
Email: anne.banger@maine.gov
TTY: Maine relay 711
Fax: (207) 287-4743
Maine Newborn Hearing Screening Annual Data Briefs
Email anne.banger@maine.gov for older data briefs