Short answer: Yes, you can go to a concert while pregnant.
Look, if you ask an audiologist about concerts, you’re going to get the same answer as asking a dentist if you should brush your teeth: “Of course, avoid loud noises at all costs!” But let’s be honest, most concerts aren’t held on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier, and you’re not planning on cozying up to the subwoofers.
The truth is, your baby’s inner ear is fully formed by around 22 weeks, but they’re chilling in amniotic fluid, which muffles sound. So, while your little one might hear the music, it’s more like you hearing someone yell at you from underwater, “Hey! Someone pooped in the pool!” than a front-row experience at a thrash metal show.
The CDC says to avoid constant exposure to noise above 115 decibels (think: standing next to a chainsaw or me belting out Heart in the car). Most concerts don’t even hit this level unless you’re pressed against the speakers, in which case, your own eardrums will probably give out before your baby’s do.
Prolonged, repeated exposure to very loud noise (like working in an industrial plant all day) can increase the risk of hearing loss, premature delivery, or low birth weight. But one night out enjoying your favorite band? You’re fine. Just don’t make a habit of moshing every weekend.
Practical Considerations
- Seating: Get a seat if you can. Standing for hours sucks even when you’re not growing a human.
- Crowds: Don’t get squished. Stay on the edge, have an escape route, and avoid crowd surfing (unless you want a story for your kid’s baby book).
- Hydration & Comfort: Bring water, snacks, and wear shoes that don’t make you want to cry.
- Proximity to Medical Care: If you’re close to your due date, maybe don’t go to a festival in the middle of nowhere.
- Personal Health: If you have pregnancy complications, check with your doctor before you go.
What About Guns? (Because Someone Will Ask)
Unless you’re a professional assassin or planning to fire guns for 8 hours straight, you’re probably fine. Gunfire is loud (150+ dB), but unless you’re doing it repeatedly, the risk is minimal. Just don’t get shot. That’s solid advice for anyone, pregnant or not.
The Bottom Line
Go to the concert. Have fun. Don’t stand in front of the speakers. If you feel good and your doctor’s cool with it, you’re all set. And if anyone tells you otherwise, hand them a tall glass of “shut the hell up.” Rock on, mama!
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