What is hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing is a method of pain management that aims to provide relief and relaxation to pregnant women throughout their pregnancy, labour, and childbirth. This method uses self-hypnosis and relaxation techniques to help the pregnant mother to feel physically, mentally and spiritually prepared and reduce her fear, anxiety and pain during childbirth.
How does hypnobirthing work?
Hypnobirthing classes are run by certified practitioners over the course of four to five weeks. Pregnant women or the couple can attend a group class, a private class, or participate in an online course to learn everything about hypnobirthing. The main goal of hypnobirthing classes to help the pregnant mothers to relax using different methods, because not every method will work for each mother. The methods used include:
- breathing techniques and exercises
- massage techniques
- listening to a meditative recording or reading
- visualizing
The other part of the class focuses on childbirth. Hypnobirthing is based on that fear during labour and childbirth can cause various problems, with each class trying to address these fears with knowledge.
What to expect with hypnobirthing
Hypnobirthing helps prepare pregnant mothers and their partners for childbirth using hypnosis. By regularly practicing hypnosis and other techniques such as visualization and deep relaxation, pregnant women can reduce their fear towards childbirth.
These techniques can take weeks or months to master. They may also practice these techniques at home every day in preparation for their due dates. Hypnobirthing classes may also offer nutrition advice and other tips to have a successful pregnancy.
Benefits of hypnobirthing
The following are some of the benefits that can be gained from hypnobirthing:
- It is a natural form of pain management
- It can provide relief, comfort, and relaxation during labour
- It can reduce stress and fear during childbirth
- It creates a better postpartum experience
- It allows the pregnant mothers and their partners to remain alert and awake