Studies conducted in developed countries have shown that hearing loss is the most common birth defect with an incidence rate of 3 for every 1,000 babies born every year. A newborn cannot communicate with the parent, making it difficult for the doctor or parent to identify the defect early on. Babies who do not hear your voice, a lullaby or a nursery rhyme may have problems learning to talk. It is important to have your baby’s hearing tested before you leave the hospital after delivering the child. Hearing problems need to be identified as early as possible so that you may take the necessary actions that give your baby the best chance to develop speech and language.