Your HypnoBirthing Questions Answered

Dispelling the rumours and myths surrounding this natural method of delivery…

Mention the word ‘HypnoBirthing’ in conversation, and images that come to mind for many involve a woman unconsciously giving birth. In an effort to dispel the misconceptions around this alternative childbirth technique, clinical hypnotherapist Deborah Dewey answers everything we want to know about this gentle, natural and active method of delivery.

What is HypnoBirthing?
HypnoBirthing is more than just hypnosis. It is a philosophy of birth as much as it is a technique for achieving a satisfying, more relaxed and memorable birth experience. HypnoBirthing sessions teach mum, along with her partner, the joy and art of experiencing birth in a more comfortable manner.

What are the benefits of HypnoBirthing?
The benefits of HypnoBirthing are a relaxed and comfortable mindset for both mum and partner because of the techniques that are covered. Courses teaches deep relaxation, to eliminate the fear that causes tension and thus pain. Further, the techniques help to shorten the first phase of labour and HypnoBirthing helps to keep oxygen supplied to baby during birthing. Mum benefits from less fatigue, which is greatly reduced as well as the need for an episiotomy.

How does this differ from other birthing preparation techniques?
One of the key elements to the HypnoBirthing philosophy is how it gives Dad (or the birthing partner) an integral role in the birthing. Most mums follow up after courses and report how useful the HypnoBirthing breathing techniques are. Birthing preparation techniques for breathing can vary widely and HypnoBirthing has three breathing exercises that help mums’ through the different stages of labour. HypnoBirthing also addresses the mind, whilst other more traditional birthing preparation courses forget the mind totally. And when the mind is relaxed, the body relaxes too. Lastly, how the body prepares for birthing is covered in depth, thus giving a better understanding of a how a woman’s body is designed for labour.

What is a typical HypnoBirthing session like?
Each session shows birthing videos, and techniques are covered including breathing exercises, visualisation and deep relaxation using self-hypnosis. Understanding how the body and mind work together for birthing is also covered in every session.

Where can pregnant women partake in a HypnoBirthing session?
I currently offer private one-to-one classes in the comfort of my own home or at mum’s home, if preferred. Small private group class can also be arranged on request for two or more mums.  There are 5 sessions to be covered. Once per week is the usual structure of the course, although classes can be flexible if required.

Is HypnoBirthing safe for all pregnant women?
Yes, HypnoBirthing is safe as it allows mums to use their birthing instincts to birth their baby, in a way that mirrors nature. As long as there are no complications while carrying her child, she is fit to go ahead and do HypnoBirthing to support her towards a better, more natural birth experience.

When is the best time in pregnancy to undergo HypnoBirthing?
A mum can start the HypnoBirthing course in her first trimester, as soon as she likes. Most mums start the course at about 20-30 weeks usually. We also allow mums up to 36 weeks but we try to encourage a little earlier for best results. The sooner she starts, the more time she has to practice the techniques at home.

Anything else we need to know?
You will learn that hypnosis is not a ‘trance state’ or sleep state but a natural heightened state of relaxation where you are aware and fully in control, but profoundly relaxed. HypnoBirthing helps to eliminate the fear-tension-pain syndrome and teaches Mum to trust in her body and work with it.

Private one-to-one classes with Deborah Dewey are $4,600/$5,000. Group classes are $3,800. Each enrollment includes: a HypnoBirthing Marie Mongan book with audio recording of Daily Affirmations and Rainbow Relaxation, a course booklet as well as other additional handouts, like a Birth Plan and What to Pack for the Hospital. Included in the fee is a private over the due date session and breech baby session, if required. For registration, visit www.deborah-dewey.com/hypnobirthing and register on the contact page, email [email protected], or call Deborah at 6208 7321. A free consultation is available for mamas interested to find out more.