What week can baby hear you?

Answered by John Hunt

Around 18 weeks into my pregnancy, something amazing happened. I learned that my unborn baby was starting to develop the ability to hear sounds in my body. Can you believe it? My little one could hear my heartbeat! It’s such a surreal feeling to know that this tiny being inside of me is already experiencing the world in some way.

As the weeks went by and my baby continued to grow, so did their ability to hear. Around 27 to 29 weeks, which is about 6 to 7 months into my pregnancy, my baby’s ears were developing even more, allowing them to hear sounds outside of my body. This means that they could now hear my voice! I was so excited to think about all the conversations I would have with my little one, even before they were born.

It’s fascinating to think about how their hearing continues to develop throughout the pregnancy. By the time they reach full term, which is around 40 weeks, their hearing is at about the same level as an adult’s. Isn’t that incredible? It’s amazing to consider how much they will be able to experience and learn from the sounds around them once they enter the world.

I remember reading about the importance of talking and singing to my baby during pregnancy. They say that by exposing them to different sounds and voices, it can help with their language development later on. So, I made sure to talk to my belly often, sharing stories, singing songs, and even just having regular conversations with my little one. It felt a bit silly at first, but knowing that they could actually hear me made it all the more special.

I also learned that certain sounds can be soothing to babies even before they are born. For example, some studies suggest that playing soft, calming music can have a calming effect on the baby in the womb. I found this to be true in my own experience. Whenever I played gentle music, I could feel my baby’s movements slow down, almost as if they were being lulled to sleep. It was such a beautiful connection to have with my little one, even before they were in my arms.

Of course, it’s important to remember that every baby is different, and their development may vary. Some babies may start responding to sounds earlier or later than others. But overall, it’s incredible to think about how much our babies can hear and experience even before they are born.

So, if you’re expecting and wondering when your baby can hear you, know that by around 18 weeks, they can hear sounds in your body like your heartbeat. And by 27 to 29 weeks, they can hear sounds outside your body, including your voice. It’s a magical journey, and I can’t wait to continue to bond with my baby through the power of sound.