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How can hypnobirthing help
when I’m in labour?
Hypnobirthing might sound like some sort of trance-like state,
where mama gives birth while also clucking like a chicken until
a hypnotist snaps their fingers. Rather, it’s a technique similar to
meditation that is applied specifically to the childbirth experience
and has been gaining momentum of late. Hypnobirthing uses
deep breathing and imagery techniques to help mamas deliver
their babies naturally, but this method also allows for medical
intervention if desired.
The premise behind hypnobirthing is to relax and ease the
mama’s mind and reassure her that childbirth does not need
to involve pain. There are a number of different hypnobirthing
programmes out there but the philosophy behind all of them is
that giving birth is a completely natural process and it’s only our
fear that leads to pain. Women have been conditioned to think
childbirth is painful and because of this fear, the body goes into
fight or flight mode and prevents a pain-free labour and delivery.
Hypnobirthing works by replacing fear with deep relaxation. If
you’re one of those mamas who’s focused on the possible pain of
labour, then hypnobirthing might be for you.The great thing about
this method is that it can be used at any birthing facility, at the
hospital or home birth, and has been shown to help women have
shorter and less painful labours. There are classes that you can
take that will teach you how it’s done. Don’t expect miracles, but
as long as your doctor approves, hypnobirthing could be a safe
and easy way to usher on a more positive birthing experience.