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Evaluation of fetal exposure to environmental noise using a computer-generated model
Pierre Gélat1, Elwin Van't Wout2, Reza Haqshenas3
1Department of Surgical Biotechnology, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK. p.gelat@ucl.ac.uk.
Nature Communications
|April 25, 2025
Summary
Fetal exposure to loud noise is a concern, as the maternal body offers little protection. This study models sound transmission in utero, revealing significant noise levels even at low frequencies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Acoustics
- Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Acoustic noise negatively impacts maternal and fetal health.
- Auditory learning in utero suggests the importance of the fetal auditory environment.
- Understanding fetal noise exposure is crucial for preventing harm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a computational model for quantifying fetal exposure to acoustic fields.
- To analyze sound transmission characteristics within the uterus.
Main Methods:
- Utilized anatomical data from MRI scans of pregnant patients from 24 weeks gestation.
- Developed a computational model to quantify fetal acoustic exposure.
- Calculated acoustic transfer characteristics and pressure maps at various frequencies (5, 10, 20 kHz).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated complex acoustic patterns, including multiple scattering and modal patterns, within the uterus.
- Calculations showed sound transmission in utero is attenuated by only 6 dB below 1 kHz.
- Confirmed that the maternal abdomen and pelvis do not significantly shield the fetus from external noise.
Conclusions:
- The fetal auditory environment is susceptible to external acoustic noise.
- Maternal tissues provide minimal attenuation for low-frequency sounds.
- Further research is needed to mitigate risks associated with prenatal noise exposure.
