Frequently Asked Questions
What is hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing is a natural and empowering approach to childbirth. It’s designed to help eliminate fear and recondition any negative mindset you might have about birth. By cultivating a more positive outlook, you’re enabling your body to work more efficiently during labour.
The Hypnobirthing Australia™ course equips you with an array of tools and techniques that, when practised with the support of your partner, can aid in pain management and help you remain more calm throughout the birthing process.
One of the key pillars of hypnobirthing is knowledge. It empowers you by providing insights into the birthing process, enabling you to make informed decisions that align with your preferences and desires.
In essence, hypnobirthing is about reclaiming your confidence, working more effectively with your body and baby, and welcoming your baby into the world with a sense of empowerment and positivity.
Will I be aware/conscious during birth when using hypnobirthing techniques?
When using hypnobirthing techniques, you will absolutely be conscious during birth. The term “hypnobirthing” can be somewhat misleading as it involves self-hypnosis, which is achieving a deeply relaxed state. The key distinction is that you are in complete control and fully conscious throughout the process.
In this relaxed state, you may experience a distortion of time. This can be beneficial for some mothers, as it allows them not to focus too intensely on each passing moment, especially when they are trying to distract themselves from sensations or distractions in the birth room. However, it’s essential to remember that you have complete control over this aspect of the experience.
Each woman’s preferences and comfort levels may differ. Some mothers may prefer to remain in a deeply relaxed state, while others may choose to be fully aware and be more engaging during the birthing process. It’s also entirely normal to find yourself shifting between these states of being as the birth progresses. There is no right or wrong way to experience hypnobirthing.
When should I start the Hypnobirthing Australia™ course?
The ideal timeframe to do the Hypnobirthing Australia™ course is generally between 20 and 30 weeks pregnant. During this period, you’ll have ample time to absorb the course content, practice the techniques, and build confidence for your upcoming birth.
However every pregnancy is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. At Positively Hypnobirthing, I understand that life can be unpredictable, and circumstances vary from person to person. Therefore, if you’re beyond 30 weeks pregnant or even approaching your due date, it’s definitely not too late to benefit from the course and prepare for your positive and empowering birth.
Should I also attend antenatal classes at the hospital?
It’s entirely up to you. Attending antenatal classes at your hospital will more so provide information about interventions and medical procedures and their policies. However the Hypnobirthing Australia™ course offers a comprehensive childbirth education. It provides you with knowledge, about how your body works in labour, and tools and techniques to help with comfort and increase the likelihood of a natural birth, while also informing you about interventions and procedures and their risks and benefits. You may find that combining both courses could enhance your knowledge and help you make more informed choices in your birth. Knowledge is power!
Will I be able to use hypnobirthing if I need intervention or a caesarean is medically necessary?
Absolutely! The Hypnobirthing Australia™ course is not an “all or nothing” approach. While it equips you with tools to help facilitate a natural birth, it recognises that interventions or a caesarean may be medically necessary at times. In such situations, you can still use your hypnobirthing techniques to stay as calm and relaxed as possible, aiding in your recovery after the birth and increasing the chances of a smoother experience and possibly avoiding further interventions. Hypnobirthing techniques help you stay more calm allowing you to adapt to the circumstances and make the best choices for you and your baby, regardless of the birthing path you take.
How many couples are in a group course?
There can be up to 7 couples in my group course. The small group size allows me to ensure individual attention and support.
Does hypnobirthing guarantee a pain-free birth?
While hypnobirthing does not guarantee a pain-free birth, it aims to break the cycle, ‘fear-tension-pain syndrome’. When fear is reduced, tension tends to decrease as well, allowing your body’s muscles to work more efficiently as they’re not oxygen deprived. This can contribute to a reduction in overall pain.
Additionally, as we cultivate a state of calmness through techniques taught in the Hypnobirthing Australia™ course, our bodies release natural pain-relieving hormones. By working together to enhance your ability to remain calm and relaxed during labour, we’re effectively aiding in managing the sensations of childbirth.
While a pain-free birth cannot be guaranteed, the Hypnobirthing Australia™ course provides you with valuable tools to create a more manageable and positive birthing experience.
Does my birth partner also need to attend the course and what will they learn?
Having both you and your birth partner attend the course is highly beneficial. This shared experience allows your birth partner to learn invaluable techniques that can greatly enhance your birthing journey.
Your birth partner will gain skills in helping you achieve deep relaxation, manage pain, and remain calm throughout labour. Techniques like massage, acupressure, and light touch can provide comfort and support. They will also learn prompts and ways to aid in positioning to optimise your birthing experience, as well as specific techniques to help labour progress.
Understanding the birth process and potential interventions is crucial. Your birth partner can become your advocate, ensuring your birthing preferences are respected if any decisions need to be made. Their knowledge empowers them to play an active and supportive role during this transformative time.
While it’s not mandatory, having your birth partner attend the course empowers them with the skills to actively support and nurture you during labour, creating a more positive and unified birthing experience.
Can hypnobirthing be used for a home birth?
Absolutely, hypnobirthing is well-suited for a home birth. Hypnobirthing tools help create a calm birthing environment that assists your body’s natural processes. This philosophy aligns well with the familiar surroundings of a home birth.
The Hypnobirthing Australia™ techniques are adaptable and can be effectively utilised in various birthing settings. The emphasis is on blocking out distractions, promoting relaxation, and maintaining a positive mindset—whether you’re giving birth at home or in a hospital.
Can I use hypnobirthing if I've had a previous difficult birth experience?
Absolutely, hypnobirthing can be incredibly valuable if you’ve had a challenging previous birth experience. It’s designed to help you work through any fears or anxieties you might have developed as a result of that experience.
Through the Hypnobirthing Australia™ course, you’ll empower yourself with a comprehensive understanding of how your body works during birth. You’ll also learn a range of tools and techniques that are specifically aimed at supporting and preparing you for a more positive birthing experience.
The focus is on reconditioning your mindset, reducing fear, and promoting relaxation. This can lead to a more empowered and positive approach to your upcoming birth, helping you to leave any negative associations behind and embrace this new journey with confidence.
What if I have a history of anxiety or fear related to childbirth?
The Hypnobirthing Australia™ course can offer valuable support if you have a history of anxiety or fear related to childbirth. The techniques taught are specifically designed to help you work through these anxieties and promote a positive mindset.
Through relaxation, visualisation, and positive affirmations, hypnobirthing aims to reduce fear and tension. By addressing these emotions, you can create a more calm and confident approach to birthing. The goal is to replace negative associations with childbirth with a more empowering and positive perspective.
Interested in joining a group course?
Have a look at group course dates
What did this mum think of the group course with Kate...
“I highly recommend this Hypnobirthing Course. It’s a complete game changer! Kate is an amazing instructor full of energy, enthusiasm and passion for birth education. She empowers both the mother and support person/partner to have the knowledge to make informed decisions. She provides a safe space for learning, sharing her own birth experiences and answers any questions you may have along the way. It’s not about having the perfect birth, it’s about being aware of what could happen and having the tools to help you through.
From the moment we stepped into the hospital I knew my options, understood what was being offered to me in terms of care, treatment and drugs, and I felt in control of my birth. I had strategies and tools to help me feel calm and relaxed, I felt confident to ask questions and to say no if something didn’t suit me.
Not only did I find this course amazing, but my husband did too. He went into it with very limited knowledge about what would happen and what his role would be on the day I gave birth. He was able to use the strategies and tools to help me feel comfortable in labour and was a big part of his sons birth.
We honestly can’t thank Kate enough. After doing the hospital ‘course’ we would have left feeling overwhelmed and confused if we hadn’t already done this course. If you are thinking about doing this course, stop thinking and do it! Knowledge is key!”
Emily from Helensvale
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