The document discusses congenital hearing loss, including that it exists at birth or within the first six to twelve months. Congenital hearing loss creates lifelong disabilities if not detected early. The embryology of the inner ear is reviewed, starting as an auditory placode that develops into otocysts and eventually the mature inner ear structures. Early intervention is important for children with congenital deafness. Causes of congenital deafness include genetic factors, elimination of rubella, and cytomegalovirus.