ABSTRACT

If given an option, would most pregnant women elect to reduce the length of labour by an average of two hours? Would the patient in the surgical recovery room choose to awaken from the anaesthesia sooner, with fewer side effects and less pain? Would persons with chronic pain prefer to use less analgesic medication, thereby reducing possible side effects? Would those undergoing consequential medical treatment opt for reduced anxiety during its course? Research shows that music provides the above medical benefits and more, and that most people perceive their preferred music to be relaxing and beneficial to their recovery.