Participants Needed for Harp Therapy Study


Abington Reproductive Medicine is seeking women between the ages of 21 and 44 to participate in a groundbreaking study examining the effects of harp music on in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer success rates. While several studies have demonstrated reduced levels of stress and anxiety in patients exposed to harp therapy, Abington’s Harp Therapy Study is the first to apply the technique to assisted reproductive technologies.

The study’s lead investigator, Abington’s own Larry Barmat, M.D., hopes to demonstrate that the merger of music and medicine can not only soothe the soul and relieve stress, but also enhance fertility.

As part of the study, participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups (harp therapy or control). Patients will have their blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rate assessed before and after their embryo transfer to determine stress levels. Upon conclusion of the transfer, they will be asked to complete a questionnaire about their experiences.

All embryo transfers will take place at the Toll Center for Reproductive Sciences, with certified music practitioner Gloria Galante serving as the study’s harpist. A music professor at West Chester University, Gloria is an experienced harp therapist who has worked with both cancer and surgical patients

To participate in the study, you must require IVF-embryo transfer to conceive.

For more information, please call 215-481-4876.