Frequently Asked Questions About HypnoBirthing®
What is HypnoBirthing?®
Please see the "What is HypnoBirthing?®?" page.
Who is HypnoBirthing® suitable for?
HypnoBirthing® is suitable for both first time Mums and those who already have children. We help Mums who are anxious because they have never experienced birth , those who are fearful due to a bad experience last time, or those who just want a calmer, easier, more natural birth experience.
Will I be asleep or unaware if I use HypnoBirthing®?
No, absolutely not. With HypnoBirthing®, and in fact with virtually all hypnosis, you are fully aware of everything around you but, as you are in a state of deep relaxation, you are able to tune out any distractions. For more information regarding hypnosis please see my hypnotherapy FAQ’S page.
Is HypnoBirthing® safe?
Hypnosis is completely safe and a very pleasant experience. It involves a state of deep relaxation similar to that of daydreaming. Unfortunately media and stage portrayals of hypnosis have left a lot of people with a mistaken view of what hypnosis is and what it can (and can’t) do. Please see my hypnotherapy FAQ’s page for more information on the myths surrounding hypnosis.
Can HypnoBirthing® guarantee a completely pain free labour and birth?
No. There are many factors that can affect birth, some of which are outside our control. Also, as with any childbirth preparation classes, the success of the techniques is related to the amount of practice you put in.
However, as a guide, we find that around 65-70% of HypnoBirthing® Mums don’t need any form of pain relief. Nearly all the mums in this category simply don’t experience any pain – just pressure.
Around a further 20-25% only require something mild, like gas and air.
The remaining 5-10% usually fall into what we call ‘special circumstances’, where medical intervention is required. However, these HypnoBirthing® mums still tell us that HypnoBirthing® really helped – even if they were induced, or ended up with a caesarean.
Remember – the aim of HypnBirthing® is not a completely pain-free and picture-perfect ‘natural’ birth (although that is possible). It is to have a calmer, easier, more comfortable birth - where you are in control - and in a way that most mirrors Nature.
When and where do HypnoBirthing® classes run?
For up-to-date information please see the class details page
Does HypnoBirthing® run in groups or just individual couples?
I teach group classes with a maximum of six mums in a class. Each mum can choose who to bring along as her birthing partner. Classes are held of an evening so that both working mums and their birth partners can attend.
I can also provide private one to one sessions. If you work unusual hours or prefer a one to one setting this may be a better option for you. Please see my class dates page for details of the cost of group and individual classes. Please contact me for availability regarding individual sessions.
How much do HypnoBirthing® classes cost?
Please see my class details page.
When should I start the classes?
Somewhere between 25-30 weeks is ideal, as the success of the course is strongly linked to the amount of practice you do. However, provided you can finish the course before you give birth, it’s still going to help (in fact women have given birth half-way through the course and it still helped).
It’s advisable to book in advance as classes are very popular.
Does my partner/husband have to attend the classes?
Yes – birthing companions are a very important part of HypnoBirthing® success. However, if your partner/husband cannot attend all the classes and/or help you practice or attend the birth, your mother, sister or friend can also be your birthing companion.
Whoever you choose (we strongly recommend it’s the father if at all possible, as it helps build a strong relationship with the child), they should attend all the classes and be with you at the birth.
Are you present at the birth?
No. I teach you the techniques that you use for yourself, with the help of your birth companion, throughout your pregnancy and during labour and birth.
I have a question not answered above or elsewhere on the site.
If you would like to ask any other questions please go to my contacts page for my e-mail and telephone details. I am happy to answer any queries you may have.
