What to Expect At a Hearing Test

More about what to expect at a hearing test

A hearing test is a simple way to check how well you or your child can hear different sounds and speech. It may be needed if there are concerns about hearing, speech, or how someone responds to noise. The type of test used will depend on your child’s age and stage of development, and more than one test may be needed to get a clear picture.

Hearing tests are often done because someone has noticed signs like not responding to sounds, needing things repeated, or delayed speech. Sometimes these concerns are picked up at home, in nursery, or at school. Hearing can be affected by things like fluid in the ear (often called “glue ear,” which means sticky fluid behind the eardrum) or other temporary changes.

During the appointment, different gentle and child-friendly tests may be used. These might include listening to sounds through headphones, watching how your child reacts to sounds, or using a small soft earpiece to check how the ear is working. The tests are safe and not painful, and are designed to suit your child so they can take part in a relaxed way.

You should seek help if you are worried about hearing, speech, or how you or your child responds to sounds. It’s also important to ask for advice if hearing seems to change or affect daily life. Getting checked early can help you understand what’s happening and support your child’s development.

Hearing tests are carried out in purpose-built test booths that meet strict standards. We offer these facilities across several sites, including Aldershot Centre for Health, Hospital Hill, Aldershot, GU11 1AY; Bourne Hall Health Centre, Chessington Road, Epsom, KT17 1TG; Woking Community Hospital, Heathside Road, Woking, GU22 7HS; and Orchard House, Unit 8a Orchard Business Centre, Bonehurst Road, Redhill, RH1 5EL.

We will arrange your appointment at the location that best suits your availability and is easiest for you to travel to, and we will confirm the exact place and time in your appointment letter. For newborn hearing screening, the team is based at The Jarvis Centre, Stoughton Road, Guildford, GU1 1LJ. If you need to contact the service or would like to change or cancel your appointment, please call the Paediatric Audiology Administration team.