Unilateral Hearing Loss

Unilateral hearing loss (UHL) is a type of hearing impairment where there is normal hearing in one ear and impaired hearing in the other ear

Who is this information for?

Finding out your child has a hearing loss can be a difficult time for families. If your child has recently undergone infant diagnostic testing and was diagnosed with a unilateral hearing loss, you may be feeling confused or overwhelmed and wondering how to provide the best care and opportunities for your child.

Produced by the Earbus Foundation of WA, this has been designed to be a source of information about unilateral hearing loss (UHL) as well as a guide for yourself, your family and the communities engaging with your child.


Hearing plays an integral part in a child’s development. Early identification of a hearing loss is important because with the right team of professionals, services and support from family and communities, your child can be supported to reach their full potential.

UHL Overview

Hearing - How do we hear?

  • Hearing Loss

  • What is Unilateral Hearing Loss?

  • What are the causes of hearing loss?

Next Step After Diagnosis

  • The Referral Pathway

  • Audiological Intervention

Unilateral Hearing Loss and Development

  • Speech and Language

  • Psycho-Social

  • School and Education

Tips & Resources

  • Tips

  • Online Resources

  • Book Recommendations