Back in 2013, it was widely reported that the Kate Middleton delivered Prince George using hypnobirthing techniques and the media has gone into overdrive speculating that she will again use hypnobirthing to help deliver the third royal baby due in spring.
Hypnosis has been used as a technique to support labour for many years, with the written records dating back to the mid 1800s.
The NCT, the UK’s largest charity for parents conducted a review of studies on hypnosis during childbirth finding that hypnobirthing:
- Reduces the length of labour
- Decreases the use of pain relief in labour including epidurals
- Reduces the risk of intervention
- Increases the likelihood of vaginal birth
- Is associated with improved maternal wellbeing and satisfaction.
Babies that are born to mums that have practiced hypnosis and deep relaxation techniques during labour may also have better neonatal outcomes including being calmer, sleeping and feeding better.
So what can you expect when you prepare for your birth during hypnosis?
As Hypnotherapy is largely hands-off and non-invasive, it is one of the most relaxing, enjoyable and safe therapies to use during pregnancy and birth. Many mothers who have used it during pregnancy and birth say they sleep much better and are much calmer during pregnancy
How many sessions you will have will vary depending on which programme you choose or the hypnotherapist with whom you are working. Usually a hypnotherapist will give you a birth CD to practice that you should listen to on a daily basis, and you will be coached on a variety of techniques that will help you and your partner work towards the type of birth you want.
A hypnobirthing programme will typically include:
- Suggestions to increase your confidence and trust in your body
- Tools and visualisations to let go of any fears or anxieties
- Techniques to manage any discomfort or pain
- Understanding of the stress response on the body during labour
- Suggestions for your partner to use to create a sense of calm in the room
- Self-hypnosis (awake) techniques
It is important you choose a programme you feel comfortable with, and a hypnotherapist with whom you are able to talk openly. Some fears relating to pregnancy and birth can be intimate and personal; it is crucial that you feel comfortable and relaxed so it is easier to face and resolve your fears.
If you have any further questions about hypnobirthing, please contact your local hypnobirthing specialist in our NCH Hypnotherapy Directory.
