EFFECT OF RELAXING MUSIC ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE IN HOSPITALIZED PRE-HYPERTENSIVE WOMEN IN 3RD TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY: A RANDOMIZED CONTROL STUDY

Objective: To observe effect of relaxing music on systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP and heart rates in hospitalized pre-hypertensive pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Methods: Sixty hospitalized pre-hypertensive pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy were included in the study. They were divided into experiment (n=30) and control (n=30) groups by randomization. Experiment group received three, 15 minutes sessions of receptive music therapy in form of non-rhythmic instrumental music. The control group did not receive music therapy intervention. BP and heart rates were measured before and after each session. Results: Experiment group showed significant reduction in systolic BP, diastolic BP and heart rate after each session of receptive music therapy. In comparison between two groups, systolic BP showed significant reduction. No subject experienced any adverse effect. Conclusion: Listening to relaxing music can reduce BP and heart rates in hospitalized pre-hypertensive pregnant women during third trimester. The BP lowering effect of relaxing music listening is more significant for systolic BP. Receptive music therapy seems to be safe in pregnant women. Keywords: Music therapy, Music, Pre-hypertension, Pregnant women, Complementary therapies