You might have heard of Hypnobirthing but aren't too sure what it is.
The name does sound a bit airy fairy doesn't it!
So what ACTUALLY IS Hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing IS:
Logical and evidence-based birth preparation education.
Understanding the science of birth and how your body actually works (all the stuff you weren't taught in school)
Understanding your birth choices (yes - you have choices) and the importance of making informed, confident and calm choices that are right for you and your baby (spoiler - only you know what is right for you)
Building a 'tool kit' of relaxation techniques (breathing, soft touch massage, smell, audio) that, through practice, create positive anchors enabling your body to develop automatic deep relaxation responses.
A system of 'letting go' of fear, replacing and reframing birth fear and negativity with birth confidence and positivity.
Is Hypnobirthing right for me?
Absolutely! Knowledge is power! The knowledge and confidence you and your birth partner gain (yep - they join in too!) from hypnobirthing can be used in ANY birth scenario. All births are different and hypnobirthing isn’t just for one specific type of birth, it is for ALL births be that Caesarean, hospital, home... whatever your preference may be, however it might pan out.
I honestly believe everyone can benefit from the knowledge and confidence gained from completing a hypnobirthing course.
Sounds amazing, when is best to start a course?
A really important part of hypnobirthing is practice! Practice and repetition over time enables you to build strong positive anchors in your subconscious brain. These positive anchors are so valuable and the more you practice the easier it is to utilise these on your baby's birthday. Which this in mind, I'd recommend the ideal time to start a course is between 20-30 weeks of pregnancy. This also means you have plenty of time to become informed about your body and birth options and make confident, calm choices that are right for you and your baby. If you are later on in your pregnancy (30+ weeks) you can still really benefit from the information, skills and confidence that comes from doing a hypnobirthing course.
If you did want to start a course earlier than 20 weeks that is fine too. It's about doing what feels right for you.
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER! Empower yourself! You'll be glad you did!
There are various course options available depending on what you feel is best for you.
Want to find out more? Get in touch with me, Charlotte, (here's a picture of my face!), for a no obligation chat.