Is self-hypnosis birthing the next big trend?

As recently reported across the UK press, there has been an increase in antenatal classes teaching alternative relaxation techniques and many involve methods of hypnotherapy. As NHS trusts are either subsidising the courses or offering them for free, it is the alternative birth method that midwives are predicting will become a standard antenatal practice within a decade.

UK hospitals such as Colchester Hospital University NHS Trust in Essex have seen a sudden increase in the demand for classes in hypnobirthing techniques, which focuses on relaxation and self-hypnosis during the birth process.

Women have described the results of hypnobirthing techniques as amazing, claiming less pain during contractions and relieved pressure during labour.

Trained hypnobirthing instructors claim the hypnosis achieves a fulfilling birth, ensuring a beautiful relationship with your baby from the start. They also state that in addition to assisting the birthing process and making breastfeeding easier, your baby will also feel much calmer as a result of less fear and tension. Any woman who has gone through labour will know why it’s called that!

I remember hearing so many horror stories during my first pregnancy that I was literally terrified of the forthcoming event. I was clearly ahead of my time as even though it was 17 years ago (this week), I did find someone to help me through the process. She recorded a calm relaxing visualization for me, I had it playing practically on a loop on my portable CD player, yes ladies and gents this was pre the iPod or MP3 player to give it the generic term (seems incredible doesn’t it?).

It definitely took me from a place of fear and terror to one of feeling more in control and I was able to let the natural process of giving birth take its natural time. In the case of my first baby labour went on literally for days so I really did feel gratitude for anything that took my mind off the pain and discomfort.

Encourage any pregnant women you know to consider finding a way to relax, whatever that is for them, oh and the fathers too — women definitely don’t need a stressed partner around!

I’ve since created a Joyful Pregnancy and Blissful Birth range of audios, (co-authored by leading hypnotherapist Glenn Harrold); they too were originally on CD but of course are now available as Apps.