1170 “Maternalizing” the Nicu: Effects of Maternal Sounds on Growth and Development in Premature Infants

Premature infants are at high risk for developing lifelong disabilities. There is a concern that the sound environment in the NICU increases the vulnerability of the infant and increases developmental complications. NICU noise typically exceeds recommended levels and masks other meaningful sound from reaching the infant. Here we present a pilot study looking at the effects of Soothing Maternal Sounds (SMS) vs. Routine NICU Sounds (RNS) on short-term outcomes. We performed a randomized controlled trial in premature infants born between 25- 32 weeks' gestation. The SMS group was provided with a recording of their own mother's voice and heartbeat throughout their NICU hospitalization. Maternal sounds were transmitted to the infant's incubator via a specially-designed innovative micro audio technology. Infants in the RNS group received standard NICU care. Data collected daily from the infant's bedside monitor included heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation level, blood pressure, and presence of apnea/bradycardia episodes. Our results provide preliminary evidence that early exposure to maternal sounds may increase physiological stability in the neonatal period. Additional growth outcomes including weight gain, height, and head circumference are discussed. This data will help us determine whether modulating the sound environment in the NICU can increase growth and short-term physiological stability in premature infants. Future developments derived from this study will enable us to improve NICU care and reduce complications of prematurity.