The benefits of hypnobirthing for you and your baby

Whether you are a having a baby for the first time or you are already an experienced parent, you may be wondering what all the hype is about hypnobirthing. So, let us explore what hypnobirthing actually is and most importantly, how it can benefit you and your baby.

What is hypnobirthing?

Hypnobirthing is a combination of self-hypnosis and antenatal education that when put together, help women and their birth partners let go of the anxiety and fear that surrounds birth which leads to a more comfortable birth and labour.

Hypnobirthing also helps you to have the confidence to trust your body, your natural maternal instincts and to help you make sense of what to expect from your care providers. Many parents find that after taking a hypnobirthing course, they are in a better position to make informed choices about where and how to give birth to their baby.

Some of the areas covered in hypnobirthing include the physiology of birth, positive visualisations and mindset, the birth partners role, self-hypnosis techniques, information about optimal birthing positions, breathing techniques and of course an understanding that birth is a natural process where the mind and body work together to birth your baby. Many parents report that after a Hypnobirthing course, they feel reassured and much more confident about having a baby.

So how does hypnobirthing benefit you and your baby?

Hypnobirthing can help you to have a more comfortable birth experience as tension can cause discomfort. You will learn how to keep you body naturally relaxed during labour. You will understand the role of beneficial hormones such as endorphins for natural pain relief and oxytocin which is essential for the uterus to work efficiently. This could lead to a more gentle labour for you and your baby.

Birth partners will also have a better understanding of their important role during pregnancy and birth which will help mothers feel supported. Birth partners will also feel included and educated making birth a positive experience where they feel valued for their contribution.

A hypnobirthing course will help you to let go of any fears and misunderstandings surrounding birth. Through education and by practicing the hypnobirthing techniques, you will grow confident in your body’s natural ability. You will be more able to think clearly and calmly so that you are in a better position to make informed decisions that are right for you and your baby.

When you take time out each day during pregnancy to relax using your hypnobirthing tools which are really easy to integrate into your day, you will be able to notice the wonderful changes in your body as your baby develops and grows. This will help you and your baby to bond. Just an extra five minutes in bed in the morning, or spending some time before you go to sleep to practicing your breathing or listening to a relaxation MP3 all helps your body and mind relax and prepare for birth.

Are you thinking about booking a hypnobirthing course?

There are many ways in which to learn hypnobirthing. Some maternity hospitals offer hypnobirthing as part of their antenatal programme. You could also book with a private hypnobirthing practitioner who will offer group or one-to-one courses. There are many online hypnobirthing courses available that range in price or you could buy a hypnobirthing book and learn the methodology yourself.

Many hypnobirthing practitioners offer free taster sessions and this a great way to find out if hypnobirthing is for you, so take advantage of these freebies as the practitioners are only too happy to answer any questions you may have.

Happy birthing!