The Music Therapy-Assisted Childbirth Program: A Study Evaluation

This program is geared towards raising a level of concern for the expectant
parent about childbirth preparation, and the infant itself as an individual. The Music Therapy-Assisted Childbirth
program attempts to facilitate 1) a reduction of stress for the working mother-to-be, in preparation for the birthing
process, and 2) a more positive interaction between mother and child in the postnatal period. It emphasizes
adequate emotional preparation, patient and infant relaxation/ stimulation through frequency and length of
music home practice. The program integrates compatible-researched methods and strategies, and new
methodology regarding breathing techniques and music. INTRODUCTION Several issues are of concern to the
pregnant mother. For instance, how manageable and satisfactory is the birth of her first child, how about her
child development, how well will she cope with childcare tasks, and the newborn infant’s crying behavior. Can
the controlled use of music possibly enhance the outcome of the determined event of childbirth? Can it be an
influential factor in reducing pain and discomfort during the birthing process? And, does prenatal stimulation
through carefully chosen types of music have an effect in soothing the crying infant in the postnatal period?
OVERVIEW Music has been an integral part of healing around the world since ancient times. Nowadays it is
known through research that music has the ability to influence metabolic rate, muscle activity, respiration,
attitudes and emotions. With new developments in the areas of psychology, neurology and physiology to name
a few, researchers have been able to point out the importance of sensory stimulation in influencing prenatal
infant development and the role the parents may play in this regard.