Child Birth

Childbirth is one of the most natural and beautiful experiences a woman can have - in some cultures, that is. There are many women around the globe giving birth easily and without fear, but over time, our society seems to have set us up for a highly medicalised, stressful time with intervention being the norm. I feel passionate about helping women achieve the birth experience they deserve.

I have trained in the easibirthing(TM) model of hypnosis for childbirth and consulted with local midwives to offer a course designed to reflect UK birthing methods. There are many similarities to the American Hypnobirthing model, although I offer a highly flexible service aimed at helping mums-to-be and their partners at any stage of their journey.

The ideal time to commence sessions is around 30 weeks to allow for the five weeks of sessions, thus finishing a month before the expected birth date. However, there is much that can be achieved with very little time remaining, and some mums prefer to start sooner, particularly if they feel they may need additional help with certain fears. It is not compulsory to attend all of the five 90 minute sessions, although it is recommended. Sessions can be tailored to your personal needs as I work on an individual basis (or with a partner attending) rather than in groups. This allows you the privacy to explore all aspects of your unique situation in a confidential setting.

Among other things, we cover relaxation techniques, helpful breathing methods, pain and anxiety management skills, visualisation and self-hypnosis. Much of what is learned can be applied post-natally in adjustment to parenthood as well as during labour itself. This course focusses on empowering women to have a positive birth experience and to feel calm, confident and in control whether you have a hospital delivery or are planning for a home birth.

The fee per session (1.5 hours) is £67. If the complete course is booked and paid for in advance, an overall discount of £35 is applied. Included in the price is a free CD of hypnosis music I use in sessions, to be used at home (and during labour and birth if appropriate) to help further anchor the positive message.