Hypnosis has long been used as a relaxation tool to rid the mind of fear and anxiety. For some moms-to-be, it can be highly effective during pregnancy and childbirth in the form of a technique called hypnobirthing, which can help prepare you for the big day ahead.
For moms who want an unmedicated birth, the classes can make the process easier. Not sure if hypnosis, or hypnobirthing, are right for you? This guide can help.
What is hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing prepares moms-to-be and their partners for childbirth using the power of hypnosis. By practicing regular hypnosis, visualization and deep relaxation techniques, women can reduce the fear often connected with childbirth.
Hypnobirthing is usually associated with having an unmedicated birth. The techniques can be used for home births, those at birthing centers and those at hospitals.
What are hypnobirthing classes?
Hypnosis, visualization and deep relaxation techniques can take weeks or months to master. Moms-to-be and their partners attend small weekly group hypnobirthing classes where moms practice the techniques with their partners. Students may also be asked to practice the techniques at home every day leading up to their due dates.
These classes may also include pregnancy nutrition advice and other tips for how to have a minimal- or no-intervention birth. You may also learn about what happens during the labor process and get information about hiring doulas, delayed cord clamping, and reducing pregnancy interventions.
Is hypnobirthing right for you?
Hypnobirthing may be right for moms who want a low-tech labor and delivery experience without epidurals for pain, an induction or a C-section.
The moms and partners who choose hypnobirthing tend to want to be more in control during labor and understand what’s going on rather than just follow their doctor’s lead. Hypnobirthing is also helpful in explaining what happens to the body during childbirth.
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What are the benefits of hypnobirthing?
Pregnancy and childbirth can come with a fair share of fear and anxiety. Your body is changing, your hormones are raging and you don't know exactly what’s to come. The pain that’s associated with childbirth can make moms scared to go through the process.
Hypnobirthing teaches relaxation techniques that soften the body during childbirth. For some moms, this can help turn attention away from the intensity of labor, making the experience more positive and less frightening.
If you’re considering a birth without pain medication, the classes can help you get ready for what’s ahead. For many moms-to-be, an unmedicated birth takes preparation, and hypnobirthing might be just what the doctor ordered. An added bonus is the emphasis on nutrition during pregnancy.
What are the downsides or risks?
You can’t plan every aspect of childbirth because ultimately your baby is driving the train. This can be frustrating or defeating for parents who planned to have a birth with fewer interventions but end up needing a C-section.
While hypnobirthing classes are good for parents who want a labor without medication and other interventions, be prepared to throw out the birth plan, because anything can happen. The most important thing is that you end up with a healthy baby.
Other downsides: Some moms find it harder to become hypnotized and may find visualization and the power of suggestion a little more difficult. The classes can also be time-consuming to master and may not be covered by insurance.
How much do hypnobirthing classes cost and are they covered by insurance?
The classes can range in price but usually cost $200 to $300. You should ask your insurance carrier whether it’s covered. Many childbirth classes are but some are not.
Hypnobirthing can be a great option for moms with low-risk pregnancies who are hoping for a birth without pain medication and want the benefits of the relaxation techniques taught in the classes.
But no matter what happens on the big day and whether things go mostly according to plan or not, what's really important is the beautiful, healthy baby you get to hold in your arms when it's all over.
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