In November 2019 researchers from Taiwan published their review of the medical scientific literature to to assess whether listening to music during pregnancy reduced anxiety levels. The researchers stated that anxiety during pregnancy is extremely common and that it may result in adverse effects on both the mother and the baby. A total of 11 studies involving 1,482 expectant mothers were included in the review. Results showed that listening to music significantly decreased anxiety levels. A further analysis revealed that as the maternal age increased, listening to music appeared to have a greater effect as the reduction in anxiety levels was seen to slightly increase.
Lin CJ et al. Music Interventions for Anxiety in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Clin Med. 2019 Nov 6;8(11). pii: E1884