Can My Baby Hear Me?
Yes. Your baby's hearing develops through the second trimester, and by around 24 weeks they can hear sounds — including your voice, heartbeat and music. By the third trimester they may respond to familiar sounds.
Hearing timeline
- Ear structures form by around 18 weeks.
- Your baby can hear sounds by about 24 weeks.
- By the third trimester they may move or change heart rate in response to sounds.
What they hear
Your voice and heartbeat come through loudest. Outside sounds are muffled by fluid and tissue, but rhythms and tones still reach your baby.
Talking, reading and music
Talking, reading or playing gentle music to your bump is a lovely way to start bonding — and familiar sounds can be soothing after birth.
Frequently asked questions
At what week can my baby hear?
By around 24 weeks your baby can hear sounds, including your voice.
Should I talk or play music to my bump?
Yes — it is a nice way to bond, and familiar sounds can comfort your baby after birth.
Can loud noises harm my baby?
Everyday sounds are fine; very loud, prolonged noise exposure is best avoided.
Follow your baby week by week 💜
See exactly how your baby grows in the complete 40-week guide.
40-Week GuideJoin The CircleReferences
- WHO. Antenatal care recommendations. who.int
- ACOG. Fetal development. acog.org
- NHS. You and your baby, week by week. nhs.uk
- Tommy's. Baby movements & development. tommys.org
- CDC. During Pregnancy. cdc.gov