Pregnancy and childbirth, whether it be a first, second, third or even fourth child, can be a time of anxiety and fear about a safe and healthy pregnancy as well as for the birth itself.
Typically, hypnotherapy is started somewhere between week 25-30 of the pregnancy to prepare for the upcoming birth. These sessions are for the mother and, often, the birthing support partner to attend.
The aim of hypnosis for childbirth, or hypnobirthing as it is commonly known, is to help you give birth in a relaxing, calm environment free from stress, anxiety or fear.
Being anxious, tense and stressed during labour can prevent the birthing muscles of your body from working as they should. The hope is that by attending hypnobirthing sessions you can learn techniques to foster a sense of calm and tranquillity.
One of the most important parts of hypnobirthing is looking at birth in a positive light. For some mothers, hearing horror stories of other people’s experiences, reading up on what ‘could’ go wrong and expecting pain can increase anxiety. Instead, hypnobirthing sessions will encourage positive language designed to help you gain a sense of control.
Some of benefits of hypnobirthing include:
· Higher chance of a shorter labour.
· Reduced chance of surgical/medical intervention required.
· Higher chance of baby feeding and sleeping well.
· Increased sense of bonding between mother, father and child.
· Reduced recovery time for the mother.
Ultimately we are all different, and it’s important to listen to yourself and what you want from your birthing experience.