Otoacoustic emissions originate in the region of the inner ear (cochlea). They are caused by motions and respond to auditory stimuli. OAE test is widely used across the globe in newborn hearing screening test.
This test takes only a few minutes, and it is not unsettling to you or to the baby.
It involves lodging a small soft-tipped earpiece in your baby’s ear. Gentle clicking sounds are made by the earpiece. In response to these clicking sounds, the baby’s ear makes quiet sounds which the equipment picks up. In a matter of minutes, the test is completed. This report might give a clear report of all things well or indications for need for further investigations like Auditory Brainstem Response Test
Sometimes an active baby, ambient noise or a temporary blockage in the baby’s ear might warrant a second test. This happens with lots of babies and does not mean any kind of impairment or disorder. It is just a lack of clarity. In such a scenario, we go for a repeat of the test.