Many midwives recommend it, and even Princess Kate is said to have relied on it for all three of her deliveries!

Hypnobirthing is often seen as a miraculous cure for a beautiful and painless childbirth . In this article, we explain what hypnobirthing is and what the benefits of this childbirth preparation method are. With the support of The Positive Birth , we answer the most important questions on the topic.

How did hypnobirthing originate?

The concept of hypnobirthing is based on the discoveries of Dr. Grantly Dick-Read (1890-1959) . According to the English gynecologist, childbirth does not necessarily have to be associated with pain, as pain is largely caused by fear.

Fear triggers tension before and during labor, which can cause the birth canal to narrow. According to Dick-Read's theory, this cycle of fear - tension - pain must be broken . Because, in his opinion, fears are often rooted in ignorance, they should be eased through comprehensive education, so that women can face labor with confidence and without fear . Marie Mongan further developed this approach in her book "Hypnobirthing: A Celebration of Life," published in 1989. Even today, many hypnobirthing courses are based on the Mongan method.

What are the objectives of hypnobirthing?

Hypnobirthing aims to help women face labor without fear . Through intensive preparation for the birthing process and a better understanding of their own bodies, women can learn to follow their sensations during labor and give birth in an intuitive, self-determined way. You also learn breathing and relaxation techniques . Feeling confident and well prepared for childbirth helps many women stay relaxed and, in turn, break the cycle of fear mentioned in the previous paragraph.

Will you not realize you're in labor because you are hypnotized?

The word "ipno" evokes stereotypical associations: in everyday use, hypnosis is often linked to loss of consciousness, manipulation, and esotericism. In reality, it is a form of deep relaxation. Even when you're completely absorbed in a book and daydreaming, you're in a kind of hypnotic trance state. In principle, self-hypnosis techniques are exercises that can help you reach particularly deep, complete relaxation. You always maintain full awareness and control.

How does hypnobirthing work?

Although the name might suggest otherwise, self-hypnosis is just one of many techniques that are part of the hypnobirthing concept. Hypnobirthing uses a series of relaxation methods, breathing techniques, and mindset strategies that promote a positive mental attitude to prepare women for labor. For example, contractions are referred to as "where" , since the term "contractions" already implies pain and can therefore trigger negative thoughts. To mentally support the birthing process, <...> are also used views , such as the image of a flower opening, which represents the opening of the cervix. In addition, sharing knowledge about the birth process is an important pillar of hypnobirthing.

The partner or a trusted person present at the birth plays an important role in actively supporting relaxation. This can happen, for example, with the so-called massage "light touch" , in which the woman's back is gently caressed to give her goosebumps. Many women find it pleasurable and relaxing.

Regularly practicing the techniques at home in the weeks and months leading up to the birth (perhaps with your partner or the person who will accompany you during the birth) will help you recall them automatically later and return to a state of relaxation.

Many women enjoy sweet, relaxing music to accompany breathing and relaxation exercises . To support you during hypnobirthing, we have prepared for you a Suitable playlist on Spotify. Listen and relax.

Can you use hypnobirthing even without attending a course?

Of course, it’s possible to learn breathing and relaxation techniques outside of a course. There are numerous books and online resources that introduce the concept of hypnobirthing and include instructions for exercises, so you can practice them on your own at home. However, one advantage of attending a course is having a knowledgeable point of contact by your side throughout: the course instructor, whom you can turn to with questions. In addition, the techniques are practiced on-site and corrected if necessary, so you don’t have to worry about doing them incorrectly. Finally, connecting with other expectant parents can be very helpful, as they likely share many of your fears and concerns.

The Positive Birth offers a series of comprehensive courses on Hypnobirthing and other elements of neuroscience.

Is hypnobirthing useful even if you already know that a cesarean section is necessary?

Even if it’s already clear that you won’t have a vaginal birth, you can still use hypnobirthing techniques. The exercises can help you feel more relaxed and calm during pregnancy. Before or after childbirth, they can also support you in staying grounded when unexpected events occur. Many components of hypnobirthing, such as education and connecting with your body, are not only relevant for those who give birth vaginally. For this reason, many course leaders also encourage women who are going to have a cesarean section to participate in their courses.

If you’re interested in this alternative form of childbirth preparation, your midwife will surely be able to help you. However, you should keep in mind that Hypnobirthing does not guarantee a painless birth and cannot assure that you will get through it without medical intervention. The stated goal is not a painless birth, but an anxiety-free one. Therefore, try to approach labor as relaxed and open as possible, without putting too much pressure on yourself for it to be pain-free.

Because one thing is certain: it will always be an unforgettable experience!