Is "HypnoBirthing" some kind of mystic woo-woo?

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😂 Not at all! It is based on the fact that the more you know about birthing, the more comfortable you'll feel about it, and the greater your chances for a successful outcome will be (which technically is a form of self-hypnosis!). Being able to relax during intense situations such as labor can allow our body to be  physiologically unencumbered, allowing nature's PERFECT system to do it's job! 

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When should I begin HypnoBirthing® classes?

You can begin classes at any time during your pregnancy; ideally, it would be in the 20th week but no later than the 37th week of pregnancy.

 

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How does HypnoBirthing® differ from other childbirth preparation methods?

HypnoBirthing® prepares the mother with the knowledge to birth confidently and comfortably. I will teach you how our nervous system, endocrine system, organs work together during labor. 

While other methods teach women how to cope with and manage pain, HypnoBirthing® provides women with tools like deep abdominal breathing, total relaxation, and the knowledge that pain is caused by constrictor hormones, created by fear. Women learn, instead, to release fear, thus creating endorphins—the "feel good" hormones.

They are then able to change their expectations of a long, painful labor and can replace these ideas with the expectation of a more comfortable birth experience.

Will I experience a pain-free birth with HypnoBirthing®?

HypnoBirthing® does not promise painless birthing, though many HypnoBirthing® mothers do report having a relatively pain-free birth or one that they were able to manage easily.

When the cause of pain – fear that constricts the birthing muscles – is eliminated, birthing can be accomplished in a shorter period and much more comfortably.

A relaxed mother’s body will produce more endorphins, nature’s own relaxants. HypnoBirthing® mothers may still experience sensations of tightening or pressure, but most describe their birth experience as one of working with their body through the sensations.

How is the birth companion involved?

The birth companion is an integral part of the HypnoBirthing® experience.
They practice with the mother in helping to prepare for deep relaxation. During labor the birth companion guides the laboring mother through relaxation & meditative techniques, provides comfort measures, and joins in welcoming the new baby. They also serve as the main advocate for the birth plan in a hospital setting. Most couples that complete the program hae no need for a doula because the birth partner is already equipped to serve that role!

 

What if my doctor/midwife is not familiar with HypnoBirthing®? Can I still use this method and how can they help me to achieve my HypnoBirthing® goals?

If your caregiver is not knowledgeable about HypnoBirthing®, take the opportunity early in your pregnancy to discuss the the type of calm birthing environment that you desire and the techniques you will be using. 

In class, you will learn how to create a Birth Plan, which will help you to communicate your birthing goals and preferences to your doctor or midwife.

Will HypnoBirthing® be useful to me if I don’t opt for a natural childbirth or if I need medical intervention or a C-section?

HypnoBirthing® classes will help you to learn relaxation skills that will be useful to both you and your baby, regardless of your birth experience.

In the event that medical intervention of any sort is needed, you will find yourself better able to remain calm and in control!!

Mothers who have needed scheduled cesareans report that they were totally relaxed before, during, and after the procedure. Many report that they needed little or no medication following the birth, and they were able to return to normal functioning in a very short period of time.

 

Will I be unconscious or will I remember my birth experience?

You are definitely conscious during HypnoBirthing®. The HypnoBirthing® mother is deeply relaxed, but she is also an active participant in the labor process, remaining totally aware. She may return to a conversant state or choose to become mobile whenever she desires. HypnoBirthing® mothers often find that they experience time distortion and are not distracted by other people or their birthing environment while they focus on their birthing and their baby.

Hypnosis is a natural state of relaxed concentration and focus. What you experience with HypnoBirthing® is a kind of hypnosis, similar to the daydreaming or focusing that occurs when you are engrossed in a book or staring at a fire. You will be fully in control and able to carry on a normal conversation. You can remain in touch with the instruction, encouragement, and support of your birthing companion. You will be aware of your surges (contractions), but you will feel relaxed and calm.

With HypnoBirthing® you will be:

• Alert and aware

• Interactive and conversant

• Fully in control

• Relaxed and calm

• More rested, during and after the birth

What if my partner cannot attend all five classes?
It's wonderful to learn the techniques together with your partner, but if they cannot attend all the classes,  they can be caught up with what was missed when they are able to join in.


Where are the classes held?
Group classes are conducted in Monrovia and/or Pasadena.  

Private classes can be conducted in Monrovia or in your own home.
Zoom classes are offered per special circumstances only.