HypnoBirthing is learning to use self hypnosis to go in to deep relaxation aswell as learning breathing techniques used for pain relief during labour and childbirth
You'll learn how to release the fears and anxieties you may currently have about giving birth, and how to overcome previous traumatic births
HypnoBirthing lets you experience the pleasures of birth rather than the horrific ordeals you may have heard from others
You'll learn how to put yourself in control of your birth - rather than blindly turning your birthing experience over to your doctor or midwife
HypnoBirthing allows you to experience birth in an atmosphere of calm and relaxation, so that the birthing muscles of your body can relax and gently open just as nature intended them to.
Will I lose control?
Absolutely not. Hypnobirthing doesn't mean you'll be in a trance or asleep. You'll be able to chat and you’ll be completely aware of everything going on around you. You will be totally relaxed, but fully in control.
Why would I want a natural birth?
Movement
Mothers who birth naturally can move freely, go to the bathroom, walk and change positions throughout labour. The manageable pain during the birthing process serves a purpose by guiding the mother to seek certain positions. For example, if her back hurts, she will naturally seek positions off her back which can help to turn her baby. Having back pain is one sign that the baby might be posterior and needs to rotate
Faster birth
Since you can feel your body's reflexes in natural childbirth, mothers can breathe the baby down better and generally faster. In fact studies show that getting an epidural prolongs the birthing time.
Faster recovery
Mothers often describe that their recovery after a natural childbirth was faster and easier since they could get up and walk and shower. Usually they eat right away and their appetite is normal.
Healthy baby
Endorphins secreted during a natural childbirth have been found in the placenta and umbilical cord. This may serve a purpose to help the baby adjust to life outside as well as make the journey more comfortable for baby.
Research has shown that in mothers who have natural childbirth, babies are more alert and show more interest in pre breastfeeding behaviours such as sucking and massaging the mother's breasts, as well as the actual length of time they spend nursing within the first 90 minutes.
Although having a natural birth is far more beneficial for both mother and baby, there will inevitably be occasions when having a caesarean is the best option for various reasons. You will still be able to benefit from the advantages of hypnobirthing and should not feel disappointed that you needed medical intervention.
Surely I can just have all the drugs and not feel any pain?
Your body will take a lot longer to recover from having a caesarean rather than experiencing a natural birth. Any drugs that your body ingests will also effect your baby. Here’s a quote from a lady who was set on getting as much medication for pain relief as possible:
When I thought about giving birth, I asked for as much medication as possible – why risk being in pain when I know I can have an epidural? I didn't realize I was going to be stuck in bed with an IV and hooked up to the monitor. Then, because I couldn't walk I was catheterised. By the time my baby was born I had on an oxygen mask, the blood pressure cuff was always on my arm and they switched me to an internal monitor. There were so many tubes coming out of me my partner was afraid to touch me. I will not do that again. My baby came out so sleepy and groggy that I was really disappointed and I felt like I had let my baby down”
Using medications for pain relief requires some interventions, such as the external fetal monitor and an IV. In addition, using medications increases your chances of other interventions such as catheters, use of pitocin, forceps and vacuum extraction.
Using paUsing pain medication is sometimes absolutely necessary but should not be your first point of action. Hypnobirthing can help you have a natural, comfortable birthing experience but around 30% of births do need medical intervention which is out of anyone’s control.
Does my birth partner need to attend the class?
The birthing partner has a very important role in the birth itself however it is not essential that he/she attends the class. Mums to be will be provided with a 'Birthing Partner Factsheet' and will be encouraged to discuss this with their birthing partners in order to help and support the birthing experience. Birthin Partner techniques include light touch massage, anchors, visual prompts and other important techniques.
When should I take the class?
Many mothers like to take the class when they are on maternity leave as this is when they are in the birthing mindset and have most time to practice the techniques. As long as mothers have a few weeks to practice the techniques and take all the information in then it is never too late.
If I do the hypnobirthing class, does this give me a guarantee for a pain free birth?
There are unfortunately no guarantees with the class. There are several factors which can effect the birth that are out of my control.
However,However, the hypnobirthing figures show that around 65-70% of Hypnobirthing mums don't need any form of pain relief. Nearly all the mums in this category simply don't experience any pain - just pressure.
Around a further 20-25% only require something mild, like gas and air.
The remaining 5-10% usually fall into what we call 'special circumstances', where medical intervention is required. However, the Hypnobirthing mums still tell us that Hypnobirthing really helped - even if they were induced, or ended up with a caesarean.
You will find the CDs on the market useful but nowhere near as effective as actually attending the hypnobirthing class. You will learn very important techniques that the CDs can’t teach you. By doing only the CD’s you are only doing part of the course.
Yes absolutely. You will be able to learn from each other and practice your techniques together. You will also get a discount of £50 each.
Hynobirthing is excellent for the baby. Your baby feels exactly what you feel so everytime you become relaxed and calm because of the hypnotherapy, then your baby will be enjoying the calm sensations too.
You will still be able to use your relaxation techniques to stay calm and focussed if you need a caesarean or any other kind of medical intervention.
Nerves and stress can impact the mother's ability to take anesthesia and impact her surgery. Using the breathing techniques can help facilitate the body accepting the anesthesia easily. Breathing deeply can be a quick way to calm yourself and to be consciously present in the moment without stress.
Sophie Englefield BSc Psych Dip PH 0208 487 5928