Neonatal Hearing Loss

Neonatal hearing loss is a condition that occurs in newborns, in which the infant has difficulty hearing. It is most commonly caused by congenital disabilities such as genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy, complications at birth, or head trauma. It can also be caused by ototoxic medications, maternal illness, and low oxygen levels during delivery. Neonatal hearing loss can have a lasting impact on the child's language and cognitive abilities if not identified and treated early. Early identification and intervention are key to helping babies with hearing loss reach their full potential. Appropriate treatments and services include hearing aids, cochlear implants, speech therapy, and other therapies and supports.