The Power of Hypnobirthing: Why It’s the Best Way to Have a Calm and Positive Childbirth

Hypnobirthing has been positioned as one of the most important courses an expectant birth parent can attend. And there is no doubt about why is this. It is an easy to follow, yet powerful course, where you will learn techniques that will help you manage your sensations during labour. So effective that you will find yourself using them, even after giving birth.

What is Hypnobirthing?

Hypnobirthing is a type of birthing method that supports women to achieve a natural birth; however, as a course it can also help expectant mothers that would have a caesarean section to have a more empowered birth. It is based on the idea that the body is capable of giving birth naturally and painlessly, and that with proper training, childbirth could even be an enjoyable experience.

The method was developed by British obstetrician Grantly Dick-Read in the 1930s. The term “hypnobirthing” was coined by Keith Carroll in 1984.

The hypnosis aspect of this technique has been scientifically tested and found to be effective at reducing anxiety during labor. This can result in improved coping skills for mothers, as well as reduced use of pain medication during labor, which may lead to better outcomes for both mother and baby.

What are the Benefits of Hypnobirthing?

There are many benefits of hypnobirthing such as lower rates of cesarean sections and epidurals, less pain during labor and delivery, shorter labors, reduced feelings of helplessness and control during labor, increased feelings of control over the birthing process, more positive birth experiences for both mothers and fathers; better apgar scores for the newborn; easier recovery. One of the main benefits, being a positive birth experience.

What are the Successes of Hypnobirthing?

Hypnobirthing has been practiced for almost 100 years.

The success stories with hypnobirthing are endless. There are many people who have used this technique as a way of reducing the pain during labor and giving birth without any complications or interventions from doctors or nurses.

One of the students reported that she was smiling whilst in labour, using the breathing techniques she has previously practice. Another student, who didn’t have a good first childbirth experience; for the second birth after attending the individual course, reported that the relaxation practices were so effective that didn’t feel the need to use any other source of pain management. Another woman, has shared her success of having had 2 caesarean sections, and her third baby was born vaginally without any further complications and no tears.

What Research Studies Say About Hypnobirthing?

Whilst hypnosis is not a magic cure to all problems, it has been shown to be an effective pain relief technique.

Hypnobirthing it is based on the idea that if you can have a relaxed and calm state of mind during the birthing process, then you will experience less pain. For example, a research study in Australia shows how a 51% of the studied people did not use pain relief after attending a hypnobirthing course.

Another study published in the Journal of Maternal and Child Health that hypnobirthing can effectively reduce anxiety among pregnant mothers during birth delivery.

Hypnobirthing Techniques for a Calm Birth

Hypnobirthing techniques are safe and easy to learn. These techniques can help pregnant mothers-to-be feel more relaxed, confident, and in control during their births.

An easy to follow technique is the act of taking deep breaths and singing the alphabet. This technique helps control the pain one feels during childbirth. By slowing down their breathing and following a pattern, a person can relieve much of their discomfort and relax.

Another popular is to teach the acronym B.R.A.I.N.S, which stands for: Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, Nothing and Smile. It should be used when you need to make important decisions during labour; but the reality is that it can be use for any important decisions to be made.

Conclusion about the Power of Hypnobirthing

Attending a hypnobirthing course during pregnancy; and preparing with the learnings and audios; can have significant positive impact in the childbirth experience. A modern midwife know the practices; so it is important to let her know how you are planning in using the knowledge acquired, but be open to last minute changes that could be needed.