Why more pregnant mothers are choosing hypnobirthing
For every pregnant mother, the thought of labour and childbirth can be daunting. Prior planning and attendance at prenatal classes can help with this, but each labour experience is different, and one of the most common issues women report after childbirth is the loss of control over what is happening to them.
For many women, the use of natural pain relief during labour is of paramount importance. Whilst hypnotherapy cannot influence the way that your baby enters the world, it can have an impact on your perceptions of pain and your level of calmness and control. This is how:
Pain relief
Strictly speaking, hypnotherapy can’t relieve labour pain. What it can do is help you to relax which, in turn, helps prevent the release of stress hormones including adrenaline. Adrenaline is the ‘fight or flight’ hormone and works by directing blood flow to muscles: this is not helpful during labour because blood flow to the uterus is thus reduced. If you attend hypnobirthing classes, you and your partner will learn self-hypnosis techniques that can help you to control your emotions and remain calm.
A positive experience
Childbirth is one of the most amazing things a woman can experience but it is often talked about in unhelpful, negative terms. The language that you choose to use throughout your pregnancy can have a big impact. At hypnobirthing classes, you will hear terms like, ‘tightenings’ and ‘birth breathing’ instead of ‘painful contractions’ and ‘pushing’. By rehearsing the use of these you will be taking steps towards a controlled and positive labour experience.
A set of useful childbirth tools
No childbirth experience is the same as another and labours often don’t go strictly to plan. However, hypnobirthing classes can teach you a range of techniques that will help change your perception of your experience. They include:
- Alternative positions for labour and birth
- Breathing techniques
- Self-hypnosis and deep relaxation
- How to work with your partner for a positive experience.
Hypnobirthing is a natural approach to childbirth that has helped many mothers to a positive experience. If you want it to be a part of your birth plan then you need to attend classes, learn online or use CDs from about 32 weeks of pregnancy. Search hypnobirthing in our directory to discover more.
