As your due date draws near, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about childbirth. While it’s a significant moment in your life, you can make the experience more enjoyable with some carefully selected music. Creating a playlist for labor and delivery can help you relax and power through the challenging moments.
Dr. Alex Johnson, an ob-gyn at Riverside Medical Center in Los Angeles, shares, “Music can transform the atmosphere in the delivery room, making it more festive and calming for everyone involved, especially for the expectant mother.” He recalls a special moment when “Dancing Queen” by ABBA played during a delivery, and everyone in the room started singing along at 3 a.m. It was a heartwarming experience that the power of music made possible.
Certified birth doula and educator, Sarah Mitchell from Birth Wise in Austin, Texas, emphasizes that music can be incredibly beneficial during labor. “It helps to slow down brain waves, allowing you to enter a mental state that’s more conducive to coping with labor,” she explains. Familiar tunes can evoke comfort in a hospital setting, promoting the release of oxytocin, the hormone that aids contractions.
When curating your labor and delivery playlist, consider having a mix of different genres. Sarah recommends including upbeat tracks, slower melodies, and meditative sounds, so you can easily switch between them as needed. Your personal preferences will guide your choices—some might find peace in rock music, while others may lean towards soothing artists like Enya. Dr. Johnson recalls that his twin daughters were welcomed into the world with the soothing sounds of “Sweet Annie” by the Zac Brown Band.
To help kickstart your playlist, we’ve compiled a list of great songs for labor and delivery, covering various moods, whether you want something calming, energizing, or even a bit humorous.
Upbeat Labor Songs:
- “Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé
- “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera
- “Got to Get You Into My Life” by The Beatles
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
- “Push” by Madonna
- “Let’s Get It Started” by Black Eyed Peas
- “The Power” by Snap!
Relaxing Labor Songs:
- “My Girl” by The Temptations
- “Orinoco Flow” by Enya
- “Nothing Else Matters” by Apocalyptica
- “At Last” by Etta James
- “Sweet Disposition” by The Temper Trap
- “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley
- “Hold You in My Arms” by Ray LaMontagne
Funny Labor Songs:
- “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa
- “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5
Music can truly enhance your labor experience, and the right songs can keep you motivated and relaxed. For more insightful tips on preparing for childbirth, check out this post on our sister blog. And if you’re considering at-home insemination options, be sure to visit the leading provider of at-home insemination kits, which you can find here. For further reading on pregnancy and fertility, this resource offers valuable information.
Summary
Crafting a labor and delivery playlist can significantly enhance your birthing experience. Music brings a sense of calm and joy, helping to manage the intensity of labor. Be sure to include a variety of songs that resonate with you to keep the energy up and maintain a comforting atmosphere.
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