Hypnosis for Childbirth

By Sara L. Payne, C.Ht.

The fear of pain in childbirth that most women face today started long ago with what is termed the “Curse of Eve”. Basically, the belief that labor is a painful experience has had centuries to become embedded in the minds of all – particularly in the Western world. There is a strong emotional component at the root of this fear that is directly related to how women were treated – as well as how pregnancy was viewed – historically.

The result of this belief causes the Fear-Tension-Pain Syndrome to be set in place and precisely what natural childbirth through the use of hypnosis can effectively alleviate. Understanding the mind/body connection along with proper self-hypnosis training are the keys to a healthier, more peaceful birthing experience for mother and baby. Babies birthed in this way begin their lives with many advantages over other types of common birthing practices by the medical community at large.

Fear releases stress hormones known as catecholamines, triggering the fight or flight response. Relaxation releases pain-relieving endorphins, bathing the body with pleasant sensations. The mind can be trained to stay out of the way thus allowing nature to lead the way in a relaxed manner. Avoiding fear and relaxing into the experience allows your body’s wisdom to steer the course. After all, we don’t consciously think about running our bodily functions; we just do what we can to support our body through proper nutrition, exercise, etc. and trust it to do the rest. We know our immune system can heal a cut, for instance, and all we do is what is necessary to protect and allow it to heal on its own. Natural childbirth is about trusting in your body’s ability to know what to do while you use your powerful mind to assist the process: body-centered birthing is the result.

Hypnosis can also help you release other fears and emotional trauma from your own life that may surface while you are pregnant. This is often the time that a mother’s issues from her own childhood become apparent. Some have insecurities and fear around parenting as well and again, hypnosis can help to safely and efficiently change the subconscious patterns on these issues before baby’s arrival. Feeling prepared in all ways is a wonderful gift you give yourself and your newborn.

Hypnosis for childbirth is a wonderful way to get in touch with your baby in the healthiest manner. Your baby and you will have a special bonding as you clear the path for a peaceful arrival. Birthing traumas can last a lifetime, as is well-documented today. Wouldn’t it be worth it to explore what hypnosis could do for you?

Edited and revised by Sherry VanGoethem, Dr.Christine Brass-Jones OBGYN, and Dr. Denise Quance Grobe N.D.

For any questions or comments contact True Harmony at (480)539-6646 or through email at info@trueharmonywellness.com