Life vs. Digital Music Interventions Performed by Professionals Throughout Pregnancy to Increase Mental Health for Mothers and Their Offspring
Researchers are studying whether attending live music concerts and creative workshops (like singing and dancing) can help pregnant women with their mental health and benefit their babies. This builds on an earlier study that showed positive changes in mood and stress levels. The current study, starting in January 2025, will compare women who participate in these activities in person at the Berlin Philharmony with those who engage with the same activities online from home. The goal is to see if an online approach could reach more women, especially in challenging situations like war or natural disasters, who might need support during pregnancy. They are looking at short-term and medium-term effects on stress, anxiety, depression, and even the baby's development.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about understanding how different types of music and creative activities can support the mental well-being of pregnant women and, in turn, have a positive effect on their babies. We know that pregnancy can be a time of many changes, and sometimes it can bring stress, anxiety, or challenges to mental health. Researchers are really interested in finding simple, enjoyable ways to help women feel better during this important time.
Building on earlier work, this new study will focus on two main ways people can experience music and creativity: either by being there in person, attending concerts and workshops (like singing and dancing) at the Berlin Philharmony, or by taking part in similar activities from home using digital technology. They want to see if both approaches are helpful, and if one might be even more effective than the other.
The bigger picture is to see if digital activities could offer a way to reach pregnant women anywhere in the world, especially those in difficult situations such as areas affected by conflict or natural disasters, where access to in-person support might be limited. By comparing these two approaches, the study hopes to find the best ways to reduce stress and improve mental health for women during pregnancy, ultimately supporting both mother and baby.
Key takeaways
- Study compares live vs. digital music/art activities for pregnant women.
- Aims to improve mental health for mothers and babies.
- Participation involves activities every two weeks until birth.
- Includes checks on stress, mood, and baby's development for up to two years.
- Goal is to find ways to support mental health during pregnancy, especially in challenging situations.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be pregnant and between 10 and 20 weeks pregnant when you first start. You must be between 18 and 50 years old.
It's important that you don't have any serious ongoing medical conditions or mental health issues. Also, you need to be able to understand either German or English to take part in the study activities and discussions.
You wouldn't be able to join if you're outside these age or pregnancy week limits, or if you have serious health problems that might make it difficult to participate safely.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you currently pregnant?
- Are you between 18 and 50 years old?
- Are you between 10 and 20 weeks pregnant right now?
- Do you not have any severe ongoing medical or mental health illnesses?
- Can you understand German or English well?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll be placed into one of two groups. One group will attend live music concerts and workshops (like singing and dancing) in person at the Berlin Philharmony building. The other group will take part in similar activities online from their home. These sessions will usually happen about every two weeks during your pregnancy, from around 12 weeks of pregnancy until your baby is born.
Throughout the study, researchers will measure your mood and stress levels before and after some of the sessions. They'll also take small samples of your saliva to check for stress hormones. You'll complete some questionnaires on your well-being, including stress, anxiety, and depression. After your baby is born, there will be follow-up checks at 6 and 12 months, and then again after two years, to see how your baby is developing. The total duration of your active involvement during pregnancy will be until birth, with follow-up assessments for your baby over two years.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Clara Angela Foundation Berlin and Foundation of the Berlin PhilharmonicsVerified postcodeBerlin, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of music will be involved?
The study involves live music concerts, as well as creative workshops where you might be singing or dancing.
Will I have to pay to join this study?
No, you don't have to pay to participate in the study. All activities are part of the research.
How often do I need to attend sessions?
You'll attend sessions roughly every two weeks, starting from around 12 weeks of pregnancy until your baby is born.
What if I don't feel comfortable singing or dancing?
The study focuses on creative engagement. You can discuss any concerns about specific activities with the study team.
Will my baby's development truly be monitored for two years?
Yes, after your baby is born, there will be follow-up assessments at 6 months, 12 months, and then at two years, using special questionnaires.
How to find out more
Prof. Birgit Arabin, MD, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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