How early can the baby hear?

Of all the questions that I get, I think one of the top five is "how early can my baby hear outside the womb?" It's hard to imagine, but for centuries people actually thought the baby was in a deep cocoon and that the ears began to function after birth! Of course we've known for well over a hundred years now that the baby does hear long before birth. Most embryologists will tell you that around the beginning of the 2nd month, many unborn babies ears begin to be functional and will be able to hear mother's heartbeat, circulation, and digestive sounds! Some women have known that all along...those that are tuned in to their bodies and aware that often the baby will "wake up" or move vigorously when Mom talks loudly or is around a sudden noise.
That's one reason that keeping the expectant Mom in a healthy sonic environment is so important. Try to avoid:

• arguing and loud, disagreeable conversations
• fireworks and explosions
• loud music of any kind whether rap, rock and roll or even classical
• sudden or persistant drilling, hammering or other such noises

What's the best kind of sonic environment?

• calming soothing conversations or music
• singing and talking to baby, beginning in the second trimester
• happy and positive interactions in Mom's day
• keep any conflict to a minimum

Of course there are babies born all the time into conflictual families, even in war zones, and they survive and even thrive! Humans are resilient creatures and can withstand unbelievable odds and hardships. But if you want to provide the optimal environment, follow as many of these suggestions as you can!