Analysis of the effects of music on maternal fetal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women in the context of Selye's theory of stress

Purpose: This research is a randomized controlled, single-blind, experimental study for the study of the maternal, fetal and neonatal results of music listened by pregnant women in context of Selye's stress theory. Method: Women who applied to Balıkesir Atatürk State Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic between 02.10.2017-13.04.2018 in the 36th gestational week (50 intervention, 50 control) were included in the study. In the study, Descriptive Characteristics Information Form, Visual Analog Scale, State Anxiety Scale, Continuity Anxiety Scale and Maternal Attachment Scale forms were used for women and Nonstress test was performed at 36, 37 and 38 weeks of gestation. During the test, the intervention group was listened to music and the control group was given routine care. Before and after Nonstress Test applications the vital findings of the groups were measured, anxiety with Visual Analog Scale and State Anxiety Scale score averages and Nonstress Test findings were evaluated. The mean scores of pupil dilatation in labor, State Anxiety Scale and Maternal Bonding Scale were evaluated in postpartum. Findings: Regarding State Anxiety Scale mean scores in 36th, 37th and 38th weeks of pregnancy, the mean score of the intervention group was found to be significantly lower than the control group and the pre-application period in all three applications. The increase in the State Anxiety Scale score average after the first and third applications of the control group was found to be significant. Continuity Anxiety Scale score averages in 38th week in the intervention group were found signaficantly lower than score averages in 36th week and in control group. It is seen that the decrease in Visual Analog Scale values after the application of the intervention group was statistically highly significant in all three applications, in the control group there was no significant difference in all three periods. After the Nonstress Test (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and oxygen saturation) results, statistically significant results were obtained in favor of the intervention group, no results were found in favor of intervention and control groups in terms of changes in body temperature. While Nonstress Test application there was no significant difference between groups in terms of baseline fetal heart rate, acceleration and the mean number of fetal movements were significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group. In the first two applications, reactivity findings were found to be significantly higher in the intervention group but no statistically significant difference was observed between groups in the third application. State Anxiety Scale and Maternal Bonding Scale mean scores did not differ significantly between groups in all postpartum applications. Conclusion: After the study, it was observed that the music, listened to pregnant women decreased the level of anxiety, had positive effects on Nonstress Test findings and vital findings. Based on these results; it is recommended that midwives and nurses should use music in obstetric and gynecological health care applications.