Your Questions Answered
What is hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing is a birth education program that teaches you a collection of breathing, relaxation and visualisation techniques designed to prepare you for a positive experience, no matter the path that birth takes.
Don't get hung up on the "hypno" - hypnobirthing is based on significant scientific research and a keen understanding of the physiology of birth.
What are the benefits of hypnobirthing?
Society has taught us to view birth as something to suffer through rather than something that is positive and empowering. This is the day that you meet your baby!
Your birth and labour are likely to be more relaxed, comfortable and positive;
Encourages bonding, alertness and feeding;
Empowers you to make clear and informed decisions at key moments;
Encourages your birth partner to take an active role in supporting you and maintaining a positive birth environment, wherever you birth your baby;
When is the best time to start hypnobirthing classes?
I would generally advise 15-20 weeks as the perfect time to introduce hypnobirthing into your life, as there's a lot of un-learning to do, and many decisions to make throughout pregnancy, so the sooner you start putting things into practice, the better.
That's not to say you can't come to hypnobirthing whenever you feel the call, but 15-20 weeks is generally best.
I'm planning a hospital birth - can I still do hypnobirthing?
Absolutely! With a hospital birth, it's even more important to learn:
how to set up the birth environment;
how to support birthing hormones;
birth rights; and
how to advocate for yourself and make decisions.
Having worked at a hospital for 10 years (5 of which were on maternity services), I can provide you with invaluable knowledge on how to navigate the hospital system
I'm planning a caesarean birth - can I still do hypnobirthing?
Absolutely! I talk about caesarean birth with all of my clients, and also offer a Mindful Caesarean Workshop, which takes a deep dive into the full process:
birth rights;
what will happen before, during and after;
recovery tips;
post-partum; and
the fourth trimester.
What is included in the price of the courses?
As well as the teaching time described on the "My Services" page, you'll also receive the following after completing your course:
Full course material including digital hypnobirthing workbook
Relaxation mp3's
Affirmations, including printable cards
Positive birth videos
Useful links to other positive birth content
Video guides for pregnancy yoga, breastfeeding, sling-wearing, baby massage and 'starting solids' (weaning).
Will I get stuck in hypnosis?
Short answer: no!
It isn't like what you might see on television where a hypnotist "puts you under". I will teach you how to practice self-hypnosis where you are in a controlled, deep state of concentration and relaxation - although we advise not to listen to the mp3's whilst driving or out and about!