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Listening for Relaxation

The Benefits of Audio Therapy During Pregnancy and Childbirth

By Carma Haley Shoemaker

In addition to the psychological, emotional and mental advantages of listening for relaxation, Dr. Shobhana Gandhi, OB/GYN at Queen of Angels Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif., says there are many medical and physical benefits to listening for relaxation.

"One of the most beneficial results of listening for relaxation is stable, normal fetal development," says Dr. Gandhi. "In addition, the process of relaxation is also responsible for a decreased incidence of complications with Mom and Baby during pregnancy and childbirth. When a woman is relaxed and experiences less stress, there is a decreased risk of use of drugs, tobacco and alcohol during pregnancy. Women who are relaxed aren't trying to deal with their stress using external means."

The benefits of relaxation techniques carry over from the pregnancy into childbirth. According to Dr. Gandhi, a woman who practices relaxation techniques during pregnancy can use these same techniques during delivery to aid her own – and the baby's – comfort in many ways.

"Relaxation techniques are beneficial before, during and after delivery for both Mother and Baby," says Dr. Gandhi. "The techniques learned can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and delivery, as well as reduce the duration of labor during second stage because the mother will be able to push better with the contractions."

Listening for relaxation during pregnancy and childbirth is an effective reminder that life is to be enjoyed as a process, not pushed aside while striving for an end result, says Hopps.

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• Talk about it!

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