Self-hypnosis Birthing process

Removes Fear Eases Labor Discomfort

By THERESA WINSLOW

Maximize comfort. Minimize pain in natural births.

HypnoBirthing teaches women techniques of self-hypnosis to take the fear out of the birthing process.

This process enables women to achieve a state of deep relaxation through special breathing, imagery and massage, which helps release endorphins.

Part of the process of removing fear from the idea of birth is using a different vocabulary.

For example, contractions are called surges and labor is called birthing or the birth process, while pain is referred to as pressure or tightening.

The hypnosis portion isn't about mind control, more like "meditation with intention." Moms-to-be should practice each day.

Although it's not as well known as other birthing techniques, HypnoBirthing seems to be catching on in the county.

"I've had people go through complicated labors without any medication," said Elizabeth Lasner of A Conscious Choice who has been teaching HypnoBirthing for about six years. "You'd be amazed."

HypnoBirthing is based on the belief that severe discomfort to the mother and distress to the baby is not a natural accompaniment to labor.

Women can learn self-hypnosis, including relaxation and breathing techniques, which leads to an easier and sometimes pain-free birth.

"HypnoBirthing doesn't promise pain-free labor, but says labor should be much more comfortable. It allows women to enjoy having their babies, instead of it being something they fear."

HypnoBirthing was developed in the United States 15 years ago and is based on the work of an English obstetrician and founder of the National Childbirth Trust, Dr Grantly Dick-Read.

He noticed that women who were calm and had positive expectations of their labor experienced less pain than those who were frightened.

Click on graphic for information about hypnobirthing book.