Recommended Relaxation Music During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a period of major physical and mental changes. Due to fluctuations in hormone balance and anxiety about childbirth, it is not uncommon to feel unsettled. At such times, what can be helpful is “relaxation music.” Music regulates the autonomic nervous system and is believed to support not only the mother’s relaxation but also the healthy growth of the fetus. In this article, we will introduce in detail, from a professional perspective, the genres of music recommended for pregnant women and how to use them effectively.

1. Why Relaxation Music is Needed During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a special time in a woman’s life, but it is also a period of great physical and mental burden. Along with joy and expectation, bodily changes, anxiety about childbirth, and stress from changes in social life and family environment overlap, making it easy to become emotionally unstable. During such a period, using “music” is an effective means of gently supporting the mind and body of pregnant women. The reasons are explained below with scientific knowledge and psychological background.

1-1. Physical and Mental Changes and Stress Factors During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman’s hormonal balance changes significantly. Especially from early to mid-pregnancy, the secretion of estrogen and progesterone increases sharply, affecting the autonomic nervous system and emotions. This makes it easy to experience emotional changes such as depression, anxiety, tearfulness, and irritability.

Pregnancy also brings changes in body shape and daily rhythms, often leading to sleep deprivation and fatigue. In addition, anxiety about childbirth and childcare, as well as role adjustments in the workplace and at home, all become overlapping sources of stress.

1-2. Effects of Stress on Mother and Fetus

Stress during pregnancy affects not only the mother but also the fetus. Medical research has pointed out the following risks:

• Autonomic nervous system imbalance
  Strong stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, raising heart rate and blood pressure. If this continues, blood flow deteriorates, making it difficult for the uterus and placenta to receive sufficient blood supply.
• Impact on fetal development
  Chronic maternal stress is transmitted through the placenta to the fetus and has been linked to low birth weight and developmental risks.
• Connection to postpartum depression
  Excessive anxiety and stress during pregnancy have been shown in studies to be risk factors for postpartum depression and parenting anxiety.

This shows that mental and physical stability during pregnancy is essential not only for the mother’s health but also for the fetus’s healthy growth.

1-3. Scientific Basis of the Relaxation Effects of Music

Music is attracting attention as a “non-pharmacological therapy” that can regulate the mind and body without drugs or special devices. Research in medicine and psychology has reported the following effects:

• Effect on the autonomic nervous system
  Listening to slow-tempo music promotes parasympathetic dominance, stabilizing heart rate and breathing, and making it easier to shift from tension to relaxation.
• Regulation of hormone secretion
  Music lowers secretion of the stress hormone cortisol, while promoting endorphins and oxytocin, which bring happiness. Oxytocin, also called the “love hormone,” contributes to the mother-child bond.
• Psychological reassurance
  Music works directly on emotions. Music that the mother finds pleasant enhances feelings of safety and happiness while reducing anxiety.
• Indirect effects on the fetus
  When the mother relaxes, blood flow improves, delivering sufficient oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. The mother’s calm heartbeat and breathing are transmitted to the fetus as a “stable environment.”

1-4. Clinical Applications of Music Therapy for Pregnant Women

In medical settings, music relaxation is already being applied.

• In obstetrics
  Playing relaxation music as BGM during labor helps ease pain and fear. Research shows that women who listen to music report higher satisfaction with childbirth.
• Before NIPT or other examinations
  Prenatal diagnoses (NIPT) and ultrasound exams often cause anxiety. Incorporating music while waiting has been shown to reduce tension and help mothers undergo tests more calmly.
• In maternity yoga and breathing exercises
  Music is almost always used in maternity yoga. The rhythm supports breathing and movement, leading to deep relaxation.

1-5. Summary: Why Music is “Necessary” for Pregnant Women

Introducing relaxation music during pregnancy is not just a mood changer, but “important care to protect the health of mother and fetus.”

• Reduces psychological stress and stabilizes emotions
• Regulates the autonomic nervous system, improving blood flow and sleep quality
• Transmits reassurance to the fetus and supports development
• Eases anxiety and fear associated with childbirth or tests
• Reduces postpartum mental health risks

Thus, music can be used as “one of the easiest and safest forms of self-care” for pregnant women.

2. Recommended Music Genres During Pregnancy and Their Features

Music for pregnant women is more than entertainment. Since it can indirectly affect the fetus, the type of music chosen is very important. Based on medical and psychological perspectives and practical examples of prenatal education, the following genres are recommended.

2-1. Classical Music

The first genre to recommend is classical music. Works by Mozart and Bach are widely known as “good for prenatal education.”

Features

• Stable rhythm and harmonious melody
• Pleasant natural instrumental sounds
• Many gentle, slow-tempo pieces

Effects
The so-called “Mozart effect” suggests Mozart’s music enhances concentration and activates the brain. When mothers feel comfortable, parasympathetic activity increases, and the fetus senses a secure environment.

Examples

• Mozart: Piano Sonata No. 11, First Movement (“Turkish March” attached)
• Bach: Air on the G String
• Debussy: Clair de Lune

2-2. Healing Music (Environmental and Natural Sounds)

Healing music, incorporating sounds of nature, is increasingly popular among pregnant women.

Features

• Flowing streams, ocean waves, rainfall, birdsong
• Repetitive, stable melodic structures
• Suitable for meditation and sleep induction

Effects
Natural sounds instinctively provide comfort. Research shows they suppress activity in the brain’s amygdala, reducing fear and anxiety.

Use Cases

• Relaxing before bedtime
• Maternity naps
• Yoga and breathing exercises

2-3. Ambient Music (Electronic Sound)

Ambient music uses synthesizers and electronic sounds to create atmospheric spaces.

Features

• Minimal melody, spatial depth
• Sustained rhythms or harmonies forming “soundscapes”
• Emphasis on continuity and calmness

Effects
Enhances concentration and organizes thoughts and feelings. It quiets vague anxieties and slows the sense of time, often favored by women with insomnia.

Use Cases

• While doing light chores
• Easing exam-related anxiety
• Calming pre-labor tension

2-4. World Traditional Music (Ethnic Music)

Traditional music from around the world often includes relaxation elements.

• Indian raga music: Meditative relaxation, historically used for maternal health
• Tibetan singing bowls: Overtones resonate deeply in the body, guiding to deep relaxation
• Hawaiian and Irish music: Ukulele and harp tones calm the mind, restoring brightness

2-5. Popular Music (With Lyrics)

Some worry about lyrics, but if songs feel positive and pleasant, they can provide strong relaxation.

Notes

• Songs with harsh beats or aggressive lyrics should be avoided
• Keep volume moderate

2-6. Summary of Suitable Genres

The most important criterion is whether the mother feels “comfortable.”

• For stability: Classical
• For natural connection: Healing music
• For deep relaxation: Ambient or ethnic music
• For mood lifting: Pop or vocal songs

3. Effective Ways to Incorporate Music

Simply playing background music is not enough. Choosing and listening with intention maximizes benefits.

3-1. Before Sleep

• Music type: Slow tempo (60–80 bpm), instrumental, no lyrics
• Method: Dim lights 30 minutes before bed, play softly through speakers, breathe deeply
• Effect: Regulates autonomic nervous system, improves sleep

3-2. During Maternity Yoga or Stretching

• Recommended: Ambient, Indian ragas, healing BGM
• Effect: Relieves muscle tension, improves circulation

3-3. Before Medical Examinations

• Method: Listen quietly on the way to the hospital; play healing music in waiting room
• Effect: Controls heart rate and blood pressure, reduces anxiety

3-4. As Prenatal Education

Prenatal education is essentially maternal relaxation.

• No need to place earphones on the belly
• Prioritize music the mother enjoys
• Listening at the same time daily creates a “signal of reassurance”

3-5. As Daily BGM

• During chores: Light classical or acoustic
• During work/reading: Instrumentals that aid concentration
• On low days: Positive songs with uplifting lyrics

3-6. Listening with Partner

• Share calm music at night
• Play playlists in the car
• Choose songs together for the baby

Effect: Music becomes a shared experience, fostering communication and family reassurance.

3-7. Tips for Effective Use

• Create playlists by purpose: sleep, yoga, clinic visits, mood change
• Match music to the time of day: bright in morning, calm at night
• Make it a routine: daily repetition builds habit of relaxation

4. Music and NIPT (Prenatal Diagnosis)

NIPT tests for chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, and many expectant mothers feel anxious before it. Waiting for results brings heavy psychological stress, requiring care.

Using relaxation music at this time can:

• Ease pre-exam tension
• Reduce anxiety while waiting for results
• Provide reassurance when shared with a partner

5. Points to Note When Using Music

• Keep volume moderate to avoid burden
• Avoid long earphone use; prefer speakers
• Avoid overly stimulating music (hard rock, strong bass)
• Prioritize the mother’s physical condition; if unwell, rest quietly

Conclusion

Pregnancy requires care for both mind and body. Relaxation music is one simple and effective method. Incorporating classical, healing, natural sounds, and other music can ease anxiety and tension while supporting the health of both mother and fetus. Especially before important tests like NIPT, music can serve as a stabilizer for the heart.

“Listening to pleasant music and relaxing” is not only important for the mother but also a valuable gift for the baby to be born.