Oz, TugbaDemirci, Nurdan2026-01-312026-01-3120251463-17411998-4030https://doi.org./10.4103/nah.nah_154_25https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12662/10834This review aimed to systematically synthesize the current literature on the physiological and psychological effects of white noise on sleep quality, stress levels, and pain perception in both mothers and newborns. The primary objective was to critically examine existing evidence on the use of white noise in maternal and neonatal care interventions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, using keywords such as white noise, sleep, stress, and pain. After screening titles, abstracts, and full texts according to the selection criteria, 12 articles were selected for critical review. Findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) consistently indicate that white noise can shorten sleep latency, improve sleep onset, and reduce pain perception in both mothers and newborns. Additional randomized studies demonstrated benefits for physiological indicators, such as heart rate variability and oxygen saturation, particularly in neonatal intensive care settings. In contrast, evidence from reviews and expert opinions highlights potential risks associated with prolonged or high-intensity white noise exposure, including possible hearing impairment, negative impacts on cognitive functions, and neurodevelopmental delays. These differences highlight the importance of interpreting findings in light of the study design and methodological rigor. White noise presents itself as a practical, low-cost, non-invasive, and easily implementable method for improving maternal and neonatal care outcomes, particularly in sleep, stress, and pain management, provided it is applied within safe sound levels. Nevertheless, its effectiveness may vary across individuals and contexts. Future directions should focus on large-sample, long-term RCTs to establish definitive evidence and to differentiate between short-term benefits and potential long-term harms. The development of standardized protocols with evidence-based safety thresholds will be crucial in maximizing therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessWhite noisemothernewbornsleepstresspainReview Article10.4103/nah.nah_154_252-s2.0-10502651514067512941482895Q366827WOS:001653155000021Q3