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Evaluation of fetal exposure to environmental noise using a computer-generated model

Author

Listed:
  • Pierre Gélat

    (University College London)

  • Elwin van’t Wout

    (Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile)

  • Reza Haqshenas

    (University College London)

  • Andrew Melbourne

    (King’s College London
    University College London)

  • Anna L. David

    (University College London)

  • Nada Mufti

    (University College London)

  • Julian Henriques

    (Goldsmiths University of London)

  • Aude Thibaut de Maisières

    (Sonic Womb Productions Limited)

  • Eric Jauniaux

    (University College London)

Abstract

Acoustic noise can have profound effects on wellbeing, impacting the health of pregnant women and their fetus. Mounting evidence suggests neural memory traces are formed by auditory learning in utero. A better understanding of the fetal auditory environment is therefore critical to avoid exposure to damaging noise levels. Using anatomical data from MRI scans of pregnant patients ( $$N=4$$ N = 4 ) from 24 weeks of gestation, we develop a computational model to quantify fetal exposure to acoustic field. We obtain acoustic transfer characteristics across the human audio range and pressure maps in transverse planes passing through the uterus at 5 kHz, 10 kHz and 20 kHz, showcasing multiple scattering and modal patterns. Our calculations show that the sound transmitted in utero is attenuated by as little as 6 dB below 1 kHz, confirming results from animal studies that the maternal abdomen and pelvis do not shelter the fetus from external noise.

Suggested Citation

  • Pierre Gélat & Elwin van’t Wout & Reza Haqshenas & Andrew Melbourne & Anna L. David & Nada Mufti & Julian Henriques & Aude Thibaut de Maisières & Eric Jauniaux, 2025. "Evaluation of fetal exposure to environmental noise using a computer-generated model," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-15, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-58983-0
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58983-0
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