Even though you won’t see baby until after she is born, you can get to know each other before you officially meet. Around week 20, baby hears sounds from the outside world and is even able to respond to them by moving, kicking and even smiling [1].
Even in the womb, baby can learn the sound of your voice. If mom and dad talk with baby during pregnancy, then after birth she will recognize your voice, and calm down more quickly [2].
Talking to baby in utero is also useful for parents. When parents talk to baby, they form an image of their soon-to-be son or daughter and start imagining themselves in their parental roles [3]. This is especially important for partners not carrying the baby, because they aren’t as physically connected to baby from the get-go [4].
When and how can I start talking to my baby?
While some mama’s may start talking to baby earlier, usually the desire to talk starts after you feel baby’s first movements. The movements help transform baby from an abstract idea into a real person [4].
You can talk to baby anytime. Tell her about yourself, your loved ones, your home. You can sing lullabies or other favorite songs. Enjoy these conversations, be excited when she’s active; stroke your belly when he’s sleepy.
Exercise "Visiting the baby" [3]
If talking to baby doesn’t come naturally to you, try this exercise. It strengthens your emotional connection and can be used by both mom and dad.
Sit comfortably, take a few deep breaths and exhale. Relax your muscles and watch the air flow down to your stomach and back again. Imagine that you are going to visit your baby.
Mentally approach baby, knock on her door. Imagine how she will greet you. Try to see what baby looks like, what surrounds hers. This may be a completely unrealistic picture, but don't hold back. Let your imagination do its work.
Ask her how she's doing, what she's doing, how she's feeling. Play out this conversation in your head. Imagine that baby answers your questions. Maybe she's waiting for something from you? Wants something, dreams about something? Tell her about something important to you, share your feelings about pregnancy, childbirth and your future life together.
After spending a little time with baby, tell her before you leave that you will be happy to visit again. Say goodbye in a way that is natural to you. Then slowly return to reality. Take a few deep breaths and stretch.
