Sources reveal Kate Middleton will use hypnobirthing techniques to give birth to her first child and heir to the British throne next month.
Kate reportedly used hypnotherapy to combat morning sickness earlier this year and it seems the Duchess was so pleased with the results she’s willing to use similar techniques as pain relief for the birth itself.
Hypnobirthing involves using the body’s natural states to help reduce feelings of fear and stress during and leading up to labour. According to hypnobirthing expert Katherine Graves, “The main principle of hynobirthing is to remove fear. If you can achieve this, you will considerably reduce, and in some cases eliminate, pain, leading to an easier, calmer and more comfortable birth experience.”
Many women feel anxious and scared leading up to the big day but Katherine believes labour should be approached as an empowering experience, not a scary or stressful one.
Through hypnobirthing, women learn certain breathing techniques leading up to the birth to help them relax and relieve any tension that might exacerbate the pain.
They will also learn certain exercises and movements designed to encourage a smooth and natural exit for the baby.
When the body is relaxed and ready, there is often less need for pain relief intervention such as drugs and epidurals, making it a safer option for both mother and baby.
Hypnobirthing is also thought to bring couples closer together. Partners play a fundamental role in the birthing process, allowing them to develop a deeper connection with their baby. Katherine believes it helps if the father feels he had an important part to play in the birth.
Thanks to Kate, it is thought more and more women will opt for hypnotherapy over traditional childbirth techniques.
To find out more about hypnobirthing and to find a hypnotherapist near you, please visit our page on Childbirth.
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