HypnoBirthing® Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a list of questions that we have been asked, if you have any other question please feel free to contact us.

Is HypnoBirthing The Same As Childbirth Using Hypnosis?

No, there is much more to it. HypnoBirthing is a very comprehensive educational programme designed to inform and prepare couples for natural childbirth. It is as much a philosophy as a set of techniques in which the art of giving birth to babies more easily, comfortably and in a relaxed and stress-free manner, as nature intended, is returned to women. HypnoBirthing helps women to remove any fear they have about birthing their babies, so that they can reduce or eliminate the Fear-Tension-Pain Syndrome as proposed by Dr. Grantly Dick-Read. HypnoBirthing involves using methods of relaxation and self-hypnosis, such as visualization, deepening and positive affirmations. You will also be taught various breathing techniques for relaxation and to assist your body’s natural surges as labour progresses.

What If I Can’t Be Hypnotised?

Hypnosis is a normal state that we all enter in and out of every day. It is quite safe and natural. The hypnotic state involves a narrowing of our focus of attention. We can at times have a heightened awareness of certain things or thoughts, whilst other things going on around us seem less important for the present and fade more into the background. Hypnotic states include day dreaming, reminiscing, attentively watching something like a football match or a good film, and being in a state of ‘flow’, for instance when competing in a sport. When we are in a hypnotic state, time often appears to pass very quickly

Will I Be Aware Of What Is Going On In Labour?

Yes. You will be aware and lucid, but calm. During labour you will be able to hear what is being said around you and will be able to join in if you want to. You will be more relaxed but also more in control. In early labour, particularly at night or if you are tired, you may wish to sleep. Your body and your baby will make sure you are awake when you need to be. You will be aware of the surges and work with them calmly. As labour progresses it is quite normal to ‘go within your birthing body’ as you relax deeply and go with your natural birthing instincts, working with your body and your baby. Awareness of time is often distorted and it is common for time to seem to pass by more quickly.

Will I Still be In Control?

Yes, definitely! Nobody will be controlling you or making you do something you don’t want to do. In fact HypnoBirthing enables you to take more control. With HypnoBirthing you are using self hypnosis which enables you to become more in control of your body and mind. You will not be having hypnosis done to you. Rather, you will be shown how to bring yourself into a state of hypnosis, which is just a natural relaxed state. It is just a state of deep relaxation. You will remain aware and lucid throughout the birthing experience but you will be in a state of calm.

Do I Have To Have A Birthing Companion?

We recommend that you do have a birthing companion as they play an important and integral role. The birthing companion is ideally the father/partner as this increases bonding. However, it may equally be a relative or close friend, or a doula. The important thing is that they feel happy and comfortable in this role. We find that fathers become much more comfortable and enthusiastic as their knowledge of pregnancy and childbirth increases. This enables them to genuinely empathise with the mother as they support her, and truly share in this wonderful, miraculous and joyous experience. At HypnoBirthing Matters we always respect the differences of individuals and Yvonne is happy to advise you if you have any concerns about this.

Can You Guarantee That I Will Have A Pain Free Birth?

Whilst we cannot guarantee you will not experience any pain, we are confident that your birthing experience will be better than it would otherwise have been. In our experience, HypnoBirthing mothers found they stayed calm. Even where special circumstances were involved, mothers say HypnoBirthing enabled them to stay calm and in control, and they coped well. Statistically HypnoBirthing mothers require fewer pain relieving drugs or epidurals, and fewer medical interventions (see the official UK website for HypnoBirthing– The Mongan Method www.hypnobirthing.co.uk ).

Do I Need To Practice The Techniques Taught In The HypnoBirthing Classes?

Yes, definitely. Regular practice is really important so that the exercises and techniques can become automatic and thus easy for you to do. They are pleasant, calming and relaxing to do, and mothers usually find they are not only enjoyable but can easily be fitted into their lifestyles at appropriate times.

Do I Have To Buy Any Books?

No. The official HypnoBirthing text book is included as part of the course fee.