What is Hypnobirthing by Janet Li

You’ve probably heard of hypnosis, a mental state of deep relaxation where suggestions are immediately accepted without objection, but have you heard of hypnobirthing? Instead of losing awareness and control of your body, hypnobirthing is a therapeutic method used by mothers to manage pain and stay relaxed during childbirth. Because of its relaxing properties, it is most commonly used by those who wish to have a natural birth with few medical interventions. In this blog, we’ll explore how hypnobirthing works and the benefits and limitations associated with it.

How it works

Hypnobirthing focuses on creating a safe and empowering environment for the mother, making childbirth easier by encouraging relaxation of the body and mind. This is achieved through using self-soothing methods such as meditation and creating a calming environment such as through playing relaxing music.

To prepare for a hypnobirth, mothers can take classes led by hypnobirthing instructors, often starting in the third trimester. In these classes, participants master deep breathing techniques, use calming imagery, and learn positive affirmations. Mothers can attend these classes with their partner or other trusted individual, who can learn how to create a positive environment for the mother during childbirth—such as through verbal encouragement. However, during labor, the instructor is typically not physically present with the mother. Rather, the mother self-employs the mechanisms taught during class to stay relaxed. 

Benefits

Those who have used hypnobirthing techniques have reported reduced pain, shorter labor, and less fear while also having fewer medical interventions. As such, hypnobirthing might be appealing to those struggling to cope with the fear and pain of childbirth. Hypnobirthing may also be a good option for mothers who want to avoid medical interventions such as epidurals and C-sections.

Limitations

While hypnobirthing statistically decreases the number of medical interventions necessary, childbirth is unpredictable and a C-section or other procedure may be necessary even when the mother uses hypnobirthing techniques. Similarly, even with increased relaxation, pain and discomfort is still present, though usually at a more manageable level. Additionally, because hypnobirthing often induces a calm appearance, a midwife or healthcare professional may be confused into thinking that the mother is in an earlier stage of childbirth than they actually are and refuse immediate care. In these situations, it’s especially important for mothers to either advocate for themselves or have a trusted individual with them do so. 

Final thoughts

While hypnobirthing offers benefits such as decreasing pain and medical interventions, it is not desired or suitable for everyone. Those who are considering hypnobirthing should further discuss with their doctor to determine a suitable birth plan, which you can learn more about in the podcast episode linked under this video.

Works cited

• https://health.clevelandclinic.org/hypnobirthing

• https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/labor-and-delivery/hypnobirthing/#whatare

• https://www.thebump.com/a/hypnobirthing

• https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/hypnobirthing#technique 

• https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-pregnant-woman-wearing-gray-tank-top-meditating-7055720/ 

• https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=pBIMFIRIXjU&list=PLFVMywAcMWu0gKCIriAc0MPo7njv97Y3j&index=19&pp=iAQB