Prenatal Stimulation Provides a Head Start for Your Unborn Child

Prenatal stimulation refers to the practice of using music, voice, etc. to stimulate fetuses. The objective is to promote brain development while the child is still in the womb. Some experts doubt prenatal stimulation has any impact on fetal brain development. Other experts claim that prenatal stimulation is clearly beneficial.

Regardless of where you stand on the issue of prenatal stimulation, we have to consider the facts. Fetuses can hear sounds. We know this because fetuses respond to sounds while in the womb. Sudden sharp noises (like slamming doors) startle fetuses and make them jump. We know that sound waves from music and external voices can penetrate into the womb. Research has long proven that, after birth, babies recognize their mother’s voice. Also, many babies appear to recognize their father’s voice immediately after birth.

Given this evidence, it seems only logical that fetuses can hear and enjoy music and voices. For this reason, you might want to consider the possible benefits of exposing your unborn child to audio stimulation.

Pregnant mothers have observed that their fetuses seem to be excited by certain noises. Pregnant mothers who read to their fetuses notice that the fetus becomes highly active when hearing certain books and very calm while hearing other books. Mothers have had similar observations with music. Peppy music may excite the fetus while peaceful music may soothe the fetus.

If you want to use prenatal stimulation for your baby, it’s very easy. You can begin by reading to the baby. Just project your voice toward the fetus. You don’t need to shout, but speak up, because the inside of the human body is a very noisy place.

You also might want to play music for the fetus. Babies seem to love classical music. In particular, Mozart’s playful and happy style appears to have a universal appeal with children. If you turn up the stereo’s volume a bit, the fetus should be able to hear the music. Don’t turn up the volume too much, however. There is no need to have the music louder than what is comfortable for you.

Some companies sell products to aid in prenatal stimulation. BebeSounds offers a kit that includes abdominal speakers, a microphone, music, and an electronic fetal listening device. The BabyPlus Company has a sophisticated sonic system based on rhythms: the Prenatal Education System. With a little searching, you can probably find several similar prenatal stimulation products. Just choose the one that you think will best accomplish your goals.

If you do buy one of the commercially available prenatal stimulation systems, please follow the safety guidelines carefully. Misuse of these products could potentially be harmful to the fetus.