Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who is HypnoBirthing® suitable for?
HypnoBirthing® is suitable for first time mums and mums who've had children before. I help women who are scared of birth because they've never done it

before, who are anxious because of a bad experience last time, or who just want a calmer, easier, more natural birth experience. If you're pregnant, and looking for an alternative to the over-medicalised, pain-is-inevitable, "gimme all the drugs" mindset, then HypnoBirthing® is for you.

Will I be 'out of it' if I use HypnoBirthing®?
No, absolutely not. With HypnoBirthing® (in fact, virtually all hypnosis), you are aware of what is going on around you but you can just 'tune out' the distractions.

I'm scared of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Is HypnoBirthing® safe?
Hypnosis is absolutely safe and nothing to be scared of. Unfortunately, TV, film and stage portrayal of hypnosis has left a lot of people with a mistaken view of what hypnosis is, and what it can (and can't) do.  See the “Myths about Hypnosis” page.

Can you guarantee a completely pain-free labour and birth?

No, there are some factors which affect birth which are outside our control. Also, the success of the course is very much dependant on how much work the couple puts in at home. However, as a guide, we find that 60-70% of mothers do not use ANY form of pain relief. The majority of this group report that they do not

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 I call 'special circumstances', where medical intervention is required. However, the

HypnoBirthing® mums still tell us that HypnoBirthing® really helped - even if they were induced, or ended up with a caesarean. Remember - the aim of

HypnoBirthing® 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 should I start the classes?
Starting the class around 25-30 weeks is ideal, as success of the course is strongly linked to how much practice you put in. However, provided you can finish the course before you give birth, it's still going to help.

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.