Best Belly Buds for Expecting Mothers
Wavhello Bellybuds
We found these headphones ideal for active parents wanting to introduce their baby to music. They come packed with useful accessories.
- Includes a handy audio splitter for shared listening.
- Features reusable adhesive that securely attaches to the belly.
- Only connects to devices with a standard headphone jack, which can be limiting.
Olababy Bellytunes Prenatal Earbuds Adaptor
This adaptor is perfect for those who already own earbuds and want a quick solution for prenatal listening.
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to use on the go.
- Affordable alternative to traditional belly buds.
- Lacks adhesive and volume control, which could be inconvenient.
Wusic Bluetooth Belly Speaker and Controller
These Bluetooth speakers offer a modern approach to prenatal listening, ideal for tech-savvy parents.
- Bluetooth compatibility allows connection to newer devices without headphone jacks.
- Includes adhesive gel pads for secure attachment to the belly.
- Some users noted the audio cable’s durability was lacking, which could be a concern.
Belly Buds
These headphones are designed specifically for expectant mothers, providing a unique way to bond with your baby.
- Features a set of belly buds, storage pouch, and reusable hydrogel adhesives.
- Compatible with a smartphone app for added convenience.
- Only works with devices that have a standard headphone jack.
Belly Buds Adaptor
This cost-effective adaptor allows you to use your existing headphones, making it a versatile choice.
- Utilises standard earbuds for a familiar listening experience.
- Compact and easy to carry for on-the-go listening.
- Does not include any adhesive for securing to the belly.
Which belly buds are best?
Around the 24-week mark, your unborn baby begins to hear external sounds. This is an exciting opportunity for parents to introduce music or their own voices to their little ones. Belly buds, also referred to as baby bump headphones, are specifically designed to play music at safe volumes for developing infants.
Key Considerations Before Purchasing Belly Buds
Benefits
Utilising belly buds can provide your unborn child with their first musical experiences. While studies show that music played in utero may not impact the baby’s health, some research indicates that newborns often recognise and respond positively to music they heard while in the womb.
Many belly bud models include audio splitters, allowing both parents and the baby to enjoy music together, creating a shared bonding experience that can enhance overall mood.
Safety Precautions
It’s crucial to use headphones explicitly designed for pregnant women, as these typically limit volume to around 70 decibels to protect the baby’s developing ears. Gentle and soothing music, like classical, can help relax the baby, while loud or harsh sounds may cause distress. Additionally, it’s advisable to limit usage to no more than one hour at a time.
What to Look for in Quality Belly Buds
Adhesive Quality
Most belly buds come with reusable adhesive to secure them to your abdomen. The adhesive should be strong enough to hold during movement but gentle enough to remove without pain. Many brands offer replacement adhesives separately.
Audio Splitters
Look for belly buds that come with audio splitters, allowing simultaneous listening for both parent and baby. Typically, these splitters feature a standard 3.5mm headphone jack with dual connectors, though you’ll need to provide an additional pair of headphones.
Companion Apps
Some advanced belly bud models feature apps that enable control of music selection and volume directly from your smartphone. These may also offer developmental activities and educational features for when your baby arrives.
Volume Control
Since audio levels can vary, opt for belly buds with adjustable volume settings. This allows you to modify the sound easily, ensuring your baby remains comfortable. Some models also provide options to skip tracks or adjust audio settings.
Estimated Costs of Belly Buds
The price of belly buds generally varies based on included accessories. Expect to pay between £30 and £45 for a set that includes headphones, adhesive, and an audio splitter.
Belly Buds FAQ
Can I use regular headphones on my pregnant belly?
A. No, only headphones specifically designed for pregnant bellies should be used, as regular headphones may produce sound levels that could harm the baby.
Will listening to music enhance my baby’s intelligence?
A. There is no conclusive evidence that music makes unborn babies smarter. However, listening to music is generally considered safe and can help relax the mother, which may benefit the baby.
Is it safe to attend concerts while pregnant?
A. While prolonged exposure to loud noises can be harmful, attending the occasional concert is typically safe during pregnancy.
Best Belly Buds Recommendations
Top Choice
Wavhello Bellybuds
Overview: These popular headphones come equipped with various accessories, making them ideal for active users.
Pros: They include belly buds, a storage pouch, an audio splitter, and two reusable hydrogel adhesives, along with compatibility with a smartphone app.
Considerations: They require a standard headphone jack for connectivity.
Best Value
Olababy Bellytunes Prenatal Earbuds Adaptor
Overview: This adaptor allows your regular earbuds to function as pregnancy headphones quickly.
Pros: It’s a lightweight, portable, and cost-effective solution for prenatal listening.
Considerations: It lacks adhesive and volume control features.
Alternative Option
Wusic Bluetooth Belly Speaker and Controller
Overview: This Bluetooth-compatible speaker system is user-friendly and convenient.
Pros: It includes a belly speaker, Bluetooth controller, adhesive gel pads, and a storage bag.
Considerations: Some users found the audio cable to be less durable, and there were concerns about volume levels being too loud.