A Cross- Sectional Research to Assess the Determinants of Ahara (Diet) and Sangeet (Music) which Affect Behaviour of Foetus-in-Utero- A Randomized Cross- Sectional Research

Abstract

Pregnancy is a dynamic phase characterized by complex physiological, psychological, and sensory adaptations in both the mother and the developing foetus. Ayurvedic literature describes gestation as a period during which maternal diet, emotional state, and sensory inputs significantly influence foetal growth. Contemporary scientific research increasingly supports these views by demonstrating foetal responsiveness to gustatory and auditory stimuli during late gestation. The present interventional study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of maternal dietary taste stimuli and musical exposure on foetal behaviour in utero and to explore their association with maternal Prakriti (body constitution). Material & Methods: A total of 144 healthy pregnant women fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups. Group I received powdered Sugar capsules along with exposure to Raga Darbari, while Group II received powdered Karela capsules and exposure to Shiva Tandava. Foetal facial expressions following dietary intervention were assessed using 4-D ultrasonography, whereas the effects of musical exposure were evaluated through maternal vital parameters and foetal cardiotocographic changes. Final analysis was performed on 120 participants after accounting for dropouts. Results: Distinct foetal facial expressions were observed in response to taste stimuli, with sweet taste predominantly eliciting smiling expressions and bitter taste associated with crying expressions. Raga Darbari induced parasympathetic dominance, whereas Shiva Tandava produced sympathetic arousal. An association between maternal Prakriti and foetal cardiotocographic patterns was also noted. Conclusion: Maternal diet and music significantly influence foetal behaviour in utero, supporting traditional Ayurvedic concepts through objective modern assessment tools and underscoring their potential integration into holistic antenatal care.