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Q: Is it true that babies respond to outside sounds and may jump at sudden noises? I’ve heard that babies are bothered by certain music, responding by kicking violently. Are certain loud noises particularly negative for babies? Will my baby be stressed if I lose my temper and raise my voice or if those around me do?
A: Babies have a startle reflex (known as the “Moro reflex”) that is present as they develop in the womb. You may feel this reflex while pregnant simply by clapping your hands in front of your abdomen.
After your baby is born, you may observe the Moro reflex if your baby is moved suddenly or hears a loud, sharp sound.
Occasional loud noises do not harm your baby in utero or after birth, although prolonged exposure to loud noises—in certain working environments, for example—could potentially cause some hearing loss for a mother and even her baby.
There is such a thing as “too much noise,” but not during everyday life, including raised voices. (Losing your temper frequently, however, could affect your stress levels and your blood pressure, which could have health consequences for you and your baby.)
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