Researchers have employed mathematical analysis techniques to investigate how classical music impacts fetal heartbeats and to uncover patterns in heart rate variability. They enlisted 36 pregnant women and played two classical compositions to their fetuses. By attaching external heart rate monitors, the researchers were able to assess how the fetal heart rate reacted to both pieces of music. Using nonlinear recurrence quantification analysis, they identified changes in heart rate variability during and after the music was played, finding that music could help calm fetal heart rates, possibly offering developmental advantages.
Playing music has traditionally been a means for expectant parents to bond with their unborn children, but a research team has discovered that it can also help regulate fetal heart rates, potentially aiding in developmental growth.
In the journal Chaos, published by AIP Publishing, researchers from the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico, the Metropolitan Autonomous University, General Hospital Nicolás San Juan, and the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez examined the influence of classical music on fetal heart rates using mathematical analysis to detect heart rate variability patterns.
Standard heart rate metrics usually average multiple beats over several seconds. Conversely, heart rate variability assesses the intervals between individual beats. This approach can reveal insights about the development of the fetal autonomic nervous system, with increased variability typically signaling healthy growth.
To investigate the effects of music on fetal heart rates, the research team enlisted 36 pregnant women and played them two classical pieces. The selected works were “The Swan” by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns and “Arpa de Oro” by Mexican composer Abundio MartÃnez.
By using external heart rate monitors, the researchers measured the fetal heart rates in response to both musical pieces. They utilized nonlinear recurrence quantification analysis to identify variations in heart rate dynamics during and post the music sessions.
“Our findings showed that music exposure led to more stable and predictable fetal heart rate patterns,” stated co-author Claudia Lerma. “We believe this immediate effect may stimulate the development of the fetal autonomic nervous system.”
The research also compared the impacts of the two musical pieces. While both were beneficial, the Mexican guitar composition seemed to have a more profound effect.
“In comparing ‘The Swan’ to ‘Arpa de Oro,’ we noted significant differences,” added co-author Eric Alonso Abarca-Castro. “The latter appeared to create heart rate patterns that were more consistent and regular. Elements such as rhythmic features, melodic arrangement, or cultural familiarity might explain this variation.”
For expectant parents at home, the researchers recommend playing classical music as it may support fetal development.
“Our data indicates that these shifts in fetal heart rate dynamics occur promptly, so parents should consider playing gentle music for their fetuses,” Abarca-Castro advised. “Playing calming music might help stimulate and benefit the fetal autonomic system.”
The researchers intend to delve deeper into this phenomenon, exploring various music genres and types to enhance their understanding.
“We aim to determine if different rhythms or cultural influences produce distinct fetal heart responses; thus, we plan to expand our sample size and include a broader range of musical styles beyond just classical works,” stated author José Javier Reyes-Lagos.
