What is music therapy for pregnant mothers? How is it beneficial for both the mother and the baby in the womb

Music therapy can be used by people of all ages, including pregnant mothers and newborns. One of the functions of music that is similar to humans is rhythm. The rhythm and sounds of music can help regulate the balance of the heartbeat. Music plays a role in stimulating the developmental awareness of the baby, starting from the womb. Babies can begin to perceive sounds around the 18th to 20th week of pregnancy and will become more familiar with voices and music as the pregnancy progresses.

In addition to aiding the baby's development, music therapy also supports the well-being of the pregnant mother. When the mother's mental health is strong and her hormones are balanced, it has a positive effect on the baby in the womb.
 

How is music therapy beneficial for pregnant mothers?

Music therapy can help alleviate stress, as music has a direct effect on the autonomic nervous system, muscles, and mental state. It triggers the brain to release happiness-inducing chemicals, making it effective in reducing stress, anxiety, tension, muscle tightness, and fear.

The sound of music is not only pleasant to listen to, but it also helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and gently strengthen the bond between mother and baby, both during pregnancy and after birth. The steady rhythm and soothing melodies of music therapy help the mother feel more calm and sleep better. Meanwhile, the baby benefits from improved emotional and brain development from within the womb. This use of music promotes both the emotional and physical well-being of the mother, which in turn positively influences the baby’s development.

 

What are the benefits of music therapy for pregnant mothers?

Reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation, and relieves stress
 - The soothing sounds of music help the body relax, regulate breathing, and ease anxiety, calming the mind. A positive emotional state in the mother also benefits the baby in the womb.

Balances emotions and promotes better sleep
 - Music therapy helps stabilize the mother's emotions, reduce irritability, and improve sleep during pregnancy.

Prepares both body and mind for labor
 - Music therapy activities, focusing on breathing in rhythm with the music, help relax the body and prepare the mother for childbirth.

Stimulates the baby’s nervous system (Neurodevelopment)
 - Music therapy plays a role in stimulating the development of the baby’s nervous system.

Regulates the baby’s heart rate and movements
 - Music therapy helps regulate the baby’s heart rate and movements, which contributes to its physical development.

Familiarizes the baby with external sounds safely
 - Music therapy helps the baby become familiar with external sounds safely, supporting its natural sensory development.

A calm emotional state in the mother positively affects the baby
 - When the mother is relaxed through music therapy, the baby also experiences a calmer emotional state, making it easier to care for the baby after birth.

 

Steps of music therapy for pregnant mothers

The music therapist will begin by inquiring about the mother’s emotions, stress levels, lifestyle, and health to choose the most appropriate method. Then, they will select music that suits the pregnant mother, often focusing on slow-paced songs, soft sounds, or familiar tunes to help her relax and feel safe.

The therapist will also incorporate activities such as

- Breathing exercises in sync with the music
- Soft singing along with the music
- Slow movements that align with the rhythm of the music

The music therapist will adjust the level of the activities, music, or approach according to the individual’s needs, ensuring that the outcomes are beneficial for both the mother and the baby in the womb.

 

Source : Nakornthon Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team

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