Fetal Heart Rate and Music
A recent study published in Chaos journal found that classical music played to third-trimester fetuses stabilized their heart rates, potentially aiding the development of the fetal autonomic nervous system.
Among the music tested, Spanish guitar showed a greater effect on heart rate stabilization compared to orchestral music, with "" by producing more regular heart rate patterns.
Maternal Benefits and Broader Implications
Pregnant women listening to calming music, including classical, reported reduced anxiety levels, supporting the idea that music can positively impact maternal stress resilience.
The study adds to a growing body of research suggesting that music, especially classical, may have developmental benefits for both fetuses and adults, challenging the historical murkiness of scientific literature on this topic.