By Liza Janda
Since I’ve been teaching The Bradley Method and Prenatal Yoga for a combined 35 years, I’d probably be rich right now if I got a nickel for every time I’m asked to recommend music for labor and birth. Below is a list of some great relaxation music that a lot of my students have used during labor and birth. Music used for labor and birth can be a tool for helping the laboring mother become more emotionally relaxed. She will need to learn how to and practice physical relaxation before labor begins. It’s best if you practice at the least 5 times a week for 5-10 minutes a day. Having music playing during labor and during relaxation practice can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. Now, these music recommendations, below, for many people are incredibly soothing, inspiring, and calming during labor. But I have had moms in my Bradley classes who played Tom Petty during first stage labor. So, you decide. Check out these music selections for labor and birth and see which ones make you feel good.
If these don’t do it for you, download some Tom Petty and rock and roll that baby out into the world!
