Effect of Music Therapy on Anxiety in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Pregnancy can heighten anxiety levels, impacting both maternal and fetal well-being. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 33 randomized controlled trials exploring the effects of music therapy on anxiety in pregnant women. The studies included diverse populations, ranging from women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) to those facing high-risk pregnancies. Music therapy interventions varied widely, including virtual reality experiences, classical music, lullabies, and patient-selected music, administered at different pregnancy stages such as IVF treatments, elective cesarean sections, and high-risk hospitalizations. The findings consistently demonstrated that music therapy significantly reduces anxiety levels in pregnant women. Positive outcomes included reductions in both state and trait anxiety, improved pregnancy rates, and enhanced maternal-fetal parameters. Additionally, music therapy showed promise in reducing anxiety during labor, cesarean deliveries, and high-risk hospital stays. These varied interventions and their positive outcomes highlight the potential of music therapy as an effective, non-pharmacological approach to managing pregnancy-related anxiety. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence on music therapy's efficacy in alleviating anxiety during pregnancy. It underscores the need for further research to standardize interventions and incorporate music therapy into routine prenatal care. By enhancing the overall well-being of expectant mothers, music therapy could become a valuable adjunct to conventional prenatal care practices.