How to Create the Best Birthing Playlist for Every Kind of Mom
If you're expecting soon, you've probably done all you can to prepare for the birth. Take classes. Check! Pack hospital bag. Check! Prepare freezer meals. Check! But have you made a birthing playlist to play while you're in labor? A recent study in 2014 found that music can actually help reduce labor pain and anxiety. However, creating the perfect playlist isn't a one-size-fits all solution simply because different moms like different music. To help steer you in the right direction, here are some tips on how to create the best birthing playlist for every kind of mom:
Meditative Music
As you probably know, every woman goes through various stages of labor. Every mom is different, so it's hard to say what type of music will help you get through each stage of labor. However, many moms like soothing, meditative music for the early stages of labor and switch to power through it music to get it done during the transition and pushing stages. Meditative music allows you to zone out and let your body do the work rather than fighting against it. The calming tunes help you get in your zone and tune out pain. Choose peaceful and calming songs like, "Someone Like You" by Adele, "Breathe Me" by Sia, "Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac and "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman. Of course, choose whatever songs make you feel relaxed and calm.
Power Through It Music
For the most intense parts of labor, many moms choose upbeat music that really power through the pain. Like the last few miles in a marathon, these songs are all about getting it done. Everyone has their own power songs that make them feel pumped up and in the moment. Whatever songs put you in a great mood and encourage you to get moving, finish a workout or even clean the house will work for this part of the playlist. Think songs like, "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & the Waves, "Lose Yourself" by Eminem, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey and "Rise" by Katy Perry. Pick songs that really speak to you, whatever they may be.
Length
Try to aim for a playlist of about eight hours long. You might not end up using all of it, but it's long enough that it won't get repetitive if you need to repeat it.
If you're about to pop and don't have time to make your own list, don't despair. Spotify has worked together with an OBGYN to create their very own birthing playlist that claims it is scientifically designed to accompany you from the first stages of labor through birth. Although it's always best if you can choose the music that speaks to you most, this playlist really is the best birthing playlist for every kind of mom if you can't make your own.
Sample Playlist
Meditative Music
"Someone Like You" by Adele
"Breathe Me" by Sia
"Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac
"Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman
"Sunday Morning" by Maroon 5
"The A Team" by Ed Sheeran
"Breathe (2 AM)" by Anna Nalick
"Don't Know Why" by Norah Jones
Power Through it Music
"Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & the Waves
"Lose Yourself" by Eminem
"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
"Rise" by Katy Perry
"Fight Song" by Rachel Platten
"Welcome to the Jungle"by Guns 'N Roses
"Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin
"Centuries" by Fall Out Boy