When does newborn hearing screening happen?
Most babies are offered a hearing screen in the first weeks. A result that needs repeating doesn’t by itself confirm hearing loss.
The short answer
In England, newborn hearing screening is usually offered before a baby is four weeks old, either in hospital, at home or at a clinic. If it has not been offered, ask your health visitor or GP how to arrange it.
What happens during the screen
The NHS describes a small soft earpiece that plays gentle clicking sounds while a trained professional checks the response. The test takes a few minutes and is usually done while a baby is settled or asleep. The NHS says it isn’t uncomfortable and has no known risks.
The screen looks for signs of hearing loss early so families can get support if needed. It doesn’t identify every type of hearing loss, so later questions about how your child hears still matter.
What if the result is not clear
Sometimes the first screen doesn’t produce a clear result in one or both ears. The NHS says a second test with a hearing specialist should then be arranged, usually within four weeks. An unclear result isn’t the same as a diagnosis.
If you’re waiting for an appointment or don’t understand a result, contact the screening service, health visitor or GP. They can explain the next step for your baby and tell you whether a repeat test is planned.
The screening programme depends on location
This article summarizes the NHS programme in England. Screening ages, routes and service names can differ in other parts of the UK and in other countries. Follow the instructions from your local maternity or newborn screening team.
BabyDays can store a reminder for an appointment if that helps your family keep track. It doesn’t provide hearing tests or interpret screening results. Keep the result and follow up plan in your baby’s health record.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.