It’s long been proven that positive thoughts and affirmations present the individual with an enormous sense of emotional strength and inner calm. It’s this basic principle that fuels the methodology behind HypnoBirthing. By using the power of suggestion, positive reinforcement and visualization, a woman who is about to give birth is capable of reaching a state of consciousness where calm and serenity are commonplace. Here, we take a look at how HypnoBirthing works and why it is so effective.

How HypnoBirthing Works – The Science Behind the Process

HypnoBirthing is based on the book, Childbirth Without Fear, written in 1944 by Grantly Dick-Read, MD. Dr. Dick-Read discovered that the pain, fear and tension that normally accommodates childbirth is actually responsible for causing the blood to flow away from the body’s nonessential organs, like the uterus, and into the larger muscle groups like those found in the legs. With less blood in the uterus, it becomes much more difficult for the organ to relax, thus causing tremendous pain and trauma during a conventional childbirth. He termed this process, “Fear-Tension-Pain Syndrome.”

The actual technique of HypnoBirthing was developed in 1989 by certified hypnotherapist, Marie Mongan. Mongan believed that Fear-Tension-Pain Syndrome could be prevented if the body was placed into a state of deep relaxation through the use of hypnosis. By keeping the blood in the uterus, it allows the organ to remain relaxed, resulting in a significantly more comfortable and stress-free childbirth.

How HypnoBirthing Works – Preparing for Birth

Before you give birth, you can prepare yourself for the HypnoBirthing process through a number of ways. You may practice self-hypnosis or you may receive assistance from a trained hypnotherapist. Sometimes, an audio tape playing positive affirmations can help you reach a state of hypnosis or you may get there by mentally picturing, and focusing on, a certain image.

HypnoBirthing teaches you to look at the childbirth process in a new light. Instead of being in “labor,” the mother is in “the birthing process.” Instead of “pushing the child out,” the mother is “breathing the child down.” Since energy follows thought, it is essential for you to look at the birth in a certain, more naturalistic way in order to keep the energy where it is needed most.

Why HypnoBirthing Works

HypnoBirthing allows you to be fully awake, alert and in complete control of your own body during the childbirth experience. As your fear is diminished, so is your level of pain.

In HypnoBirthing, all of the pain management occurs naturally, without the administration of potentially dangerous pain medications. This ultimately results in a healthier, less-stressful birth for both you and your baby.