HYPNOBIRTHING

1. What is hypnobirthing?

Hypnobirthing is a logical approach to childbirth. The tools and techniques you will learn are hugely beneficial for you, your birth partner and baby.  Whether you are expecting your first baby or your fifth, hypnobirthing enables you to approach your birth from a place of knowledge, confidence, and belief that YOU CAN.  If you are used to hearing plenty of horror stories about birth; your knowledge of birth comes from film and TV drama, or you have previously experienced a traumatic birth, hypnobirthing will give you the knowledge and tools to have a positive birth experience and feel relaxed and in control, regardless of the type of birth you have

2. When should I do hypnobirthing?

It is recommended to do hypnobirthing as you approach your third trimester, optimally 28-32 weeks of pregnancy to give you time to practice the techniques, however it is certainly flexible to start earlier or later in pregnancy.  If you are later in your pregnancy and feel you could use this support please do not hesitate, it's never too late to work towards having a positive birth experience and releasing any fears and anxieties you may have

3. Should my partner join a course too?

It is highly recommended that your chosen birth partner does the course with you.  This will not only help them to feel relaxed and comfortable as the birth approaches, but also to be a strong and confident supporter ad advocate fro you during your birth.  We include lots of information for partners and a whole section of our course is dedicated to partner support

4. Is it a bit 'out there' for me?

Hypnobirthing is grounded in science and evidence based research.  I promise there will be no swinging pocket watches or making you believe you are a clucking chicken.  There is a strong emphasis on understanding the physiology of birth so you can prepare for your birth from a place of knowledge rather than fear.  The tools you will learn are about creating and reinforcing a positive mindset and acknowledging any fears so these can be left behind as you approach your birth with a relaxed confidence in your own abilities.  Self belief and expectation has a scientific basis on our perception and experience, particularly in relation to fear and pain.  You will learn skills to manage the normal sensations of birth and look forward to meeting your baby in the knowledge that your body is capable of birthing your baby.  You will also find the tools and skills you learn useful beyond pregnancy, into parenthood and everyday life.

5. Will hypnosis make me feel like a zombie?

No, hypnosis is about creating a state of deep focus.  You can feel deeply relaxed, calm, you may be unaware of anything else in the room or around you as you focus within, but you are always in control

6. What are your credentials?

I have trained with, and will provide you with the Mindful Mamma Hypnobirthing course (https://www.mindfulmamma.co.uk/) as taught by clinical hypnotherapist and author of Mindful Hypnobirthing™, Sophie Fletcher.  Mindful Mamma training is accredited by the Royal College of Midwives.

7. Why Mindful Mamma Hypnobirthing?

Mindful Mamma hypnobirthing is the original one day Mindful Hypnobirthing™ class.  It is based on the most up to date research and is constantly evolving to include simple techniques that reflect this. It is unlike any other hypnobirthing class, it’s not just relaxation but powerful hypnosis and mindfulness tools.. It is the first class to combine mindfulness with hypnobirthing and you’ll learn practical techniques to help you feel relaxed, empowered and in control as you approach your babys birth. Whatever birth you choose to have, the day you welcome your baby should be a fulfilling, and memorable experience. 

Mindful Mamma classes are either a 1 day group workshop (approx 6 hours class time), or private classes for you and your birth partner spread over 2 or 3 sessions of 2 to 3 hours.

8. I'm not sure if I can afford the investment in a course

Taking a hypnobirthing course will help you to feel relaxed, excited and empowered about your birth.  It's almost guaranteed that by the end of the first class, you and your birth partner will feel much more informed and calmly excited about your baby's birth.  Research into the effectiveness of hypnobirthing  shows that parents who have invested in classes generally have shorter labours with less interventions and less need for pain relief.  Having a positive birth experience, however your birth unfolds, also improves outcomes in post-natal recovery, mental health and bonding, which is surely a worthwhile investment.   Gift certificates are also available so family and friends may wish to contribute to the cost as a baby shower gift.