The Power of Hypnobirthing: Birthing with Intention

One of the greatest obstacles to overcome in childbirth is often fear. Our society portrays birth as a scary, painful experience, one we have absolutely no control over, but what if there was a way to approach it with calm and confidence? This

is why we use hypnobirthing, a variety of relaxation techniques that helps expectant mamas experience a calm and empowering birth. Imagine being excited to give birth!

Understanding Hypnobirthing

Hypnobirthing is a practice and technique that focuses on using relaxation, visualization, breath work and self-hypnosis to prepare for birth. Founded by Marie Mongan in the 1980s, this method is based on the idea that a calm and relaxed mind can positively influence the body during labour and delivery. By reducing fear and tension, hypnobirthing aims to create a more comfortable birthing experience. This often leads to a more positive and less fearful labour and birth. Fear is often the biggest contributor to birth trauma, hypnobirthing allows you to release those fears and find your confidence as you progress in your pregnancy.

Benefits of Hypnobirthing

Many parents report a range of benefits from the practice of hypnobirthing, including reduced fear and anxiety, shorter duration of labour, sense of control, decreased need for medical interventions, and an overall more positive birthing experience. It provides mamas with the tools to calm their body and remain in control, ultimately leading to a sense of empowerment and fulfillment. These positive feelings tend to translate into an easier postpartum recovery and breastfeeding journey. Babies who are born after the use of hypnobirthing are often more alert, cry less and they tend to have higher APGAR scores. Hypnobirthing is also particularly beneficial for women who have experienced past birth trauma, giving them a sense of control and safety in a situation that can feel quite triggering. Hypnobirthing not only encourages bonding for mom and baby, it also increases bonding between dad/baby, between both parents and it reduces cases of postpartum depression.

Is Hypnobirthing for You?

While hypnobirthing offers many benefits to both mom and baby, it's important to remember that every birth is unique. Do your own research, read/listen to others experiences, and determine if hypnobirthing aligns with your personal beliefs and goals for childbirth. This is a practice, so you need to make time for it in your day to day life during pregnancy to reap the rewards of hypnobirthing. Hypnobirthing is a simple no harm practice for those seeking a more peaceful and intuitive birthing experience. By practicing relaxation, thinking positively and seeking out education, parents can transform their birth experience into a

memorable and empowering journey. Whether you're a first-time parent or already have children, hypnobirthing offers a different perspective that might just be the perfect fit for your birthing plan.

Written by: Amanda LeBreton, Birth and Postpartum Doula and Hypnotherapist