CLINICAL HYPNOSIS FOR CHILDBIRTH When pregnant how easily we become horribly fascinated by accounts of birth experiences and in turn give our own graphic account of child birth.
It seems that the more civilized we become, the more intensely we feel the experience of life and in particular childbirth. Perhaps the experience of childbirth lays in our perception of this event; much like in a phobia which can be a learned response. When our muscles are tense and we are frightened the amount of discomfort can be overwhelming. However, if one can feel the reduction of the discomfort of fear and tenseness by being distracted by something pleasant or focusing on something positive, an experience that is only brought about by our own minds.
Just as a ‘smoker’ knows that smoking is bad for their health they also find that despite the knowledge they are unable to give up their bad habit. Something deep within seems to provide the self-talk that allows the bad habit to continue, as self-talk can do for so many negative aspects of life. How then can we overcome this negative belief and support our minds to enable our body to feel relaxed, capable, safe and effective during childbirth. For those who would have a sense that pleasure, relief and accomplishment at having the opportunity to feel relaxed, comfortable, secure and positive during the birth of their baby using tools that allow them to focus on the relaxation rather then the discomfort. |
Clinical hypnosis correctly taught to women is not only a powerful tool but once mastered can be applied to so much in life allowing us to reestablish our own strength, support, self-reliance and self-belief. Added to this are the benefits of being completely safe to mother and baby, appropriate with the use of the birthing pool, releases natural painkillers or endorphins and is useful in improving the efficacy of any medication that may be used for analgesia. Recent research also indicates that women who apply clinical hypnosis for relaxation in pregnancy are less likely to suffer with post-natal depression.
Hypnotic trance is initially established, so that once experienced, the understanding follows that it is not some magical state that can only be brought about by a clinical hypnotherapist. Rather it is a naturally occurring state in which the majority of us find ourselves in several times a day. For example, if you have ever driven that oh so familiar route only to arrive at your destination not remembering going through the last set of traffic lights….or found yourself on the phone merrily doodling pictures of the sun whilst half listening to your mother complaining of the rain….then you have experienced clinical hypnosis. As such it is possible to see how easily it can be taught and mastered. Especially with expert guidance through the use of different techniques appropriate for each individual. Hypnotherapy for childbirth can be taught in groups or individuals. The process does not require the hypnotherapist to attend the birth unless there has been some prior arrangement. The experience is a tool to enable a positive attitude to be held by couples and allows a feeling of relaxation, peace and confidence to prevail, while allaying the cycle of fear and tension which leads to the pain not to be present. |
Some experience a traumatic childbirth while others effortlessly give birth.
Relaxation, preparation and information are key to an effective and enjoyable birthing experience. 