Baby In Womb: Hearing is one of the earliest senses that a baby develops in the womb. It provides an essential connection with the outside world before birth. However, the fetus begins to respond to sounds at about 18 weeks of age. This process happens gradually and continues to develop during pregnancy. Initially babies listen to internal sounds coming from their mother’s body and later they start recognizing external sounds also. Let us know when this sense develops in the baby.

development during the second month

During the second month, the baby’s facial features, eyes and ears start forming. By about 9 weeks of age, the ears become visible as small projections on the sides of the head. However, the baby still does not have the power to hear. But this stage lays a foundation for development.

The power of hearing starts from the fourth month

By the fourth month the baby’s hearing power starts functioning. In this stage the baby starts listening to internal sounds. Such as mother’s heartbeat, blood flow and digestive sounds.

Baby development in the fifth month

In the fifth month, babies become a little aware of movements and loud sounds. They start hearing something from the outside world like barking dogs or deep music. Babies respond to subtle movements as well.

Improvement occurs in the sixth month

The baby’s hearing ability now starts improving. They can recognize their mother’s voice and heartbeat. They can also be startled by sudden loud noises and parents can often feel these reactions in the form of a slight kick or change in position. Auditory memory formation begins in this stage.

seventh month

By the seventh month the baby’s ears are fully developed. Now they can hear external sounds more clearly. This also includes conversation, music and environmental noise. Infants begin to respond to familiar sounds and can show clear signs of recognition.

eighth and ninth month

During this period the baby’s hearing power develops further. They start to differentiate between different voices and sounds, especially their mother’s voice. This learning of hearing continues after birth, allowing newborns to recognize familiar sounds and language heard in the womb.