Hypnobirthing - what do you think?

[tartyhighheels]

I am expecting number 4 - last two were born at home uneventfully with a bit of g and a - its all over beginning to end in about 3/4 hours or so but i just wanted to know if anyone here had experience of hypnobirthing and if they would recommend it... I haven't had a bad experience and feel very positive about birthing at home but wanted to investigate this as a possible help for me this time. I have never honestly felt out of control when in labour, i am sort if 'in the zone' if you know what i mean - is it an extension of this or something completely different? I am loath to just go and buy a book or something without a recommendation because i don't know where to start, so any advice would be most welcome.

My thanks

...

Hi tartyhighheels, I think it might be just an extension of the zone - you might find that the hypnobirthing could help take the place of the g&a. Hopefully it would make the whole birth seem easier.

There are two types that I know of, Natal Hypnotherapy and the Mongan Method.

For my dd2 I read "Hypnobirthing, the Mongan Method" (though there is now a UK version just called Hypnobirthing) by Marie Mongan. I used the CDs that came with this as well. I thought it helped me a lot - particulary with regards to being as deeply relaxed as possible, and using the breathing technique recommended for the 1st stage.

I've also since read "Effective Birth Preparation" by Maggie Howell which is the Natal Hypnotherapy book. I thought this was great, looked very useful but didn't give any definite breating techniques (just keep breathing slow and deep).

I found the Mongan breathing technique good for concentrating my mind during contractions.

A friend of mine who has used both CDs thought that the Natal Hypnotherapy one was better - it also has an english accent rather than american! She also liked the breathing techniques.

So based on that I'd recommend the UK Mongan book (which doesn't come with CDs) with the Natal Hypnotherapy CDs.

I did Marie Mongon Hypnobirthing and it was FANTASTIC. The hypnosis stuff (for me) was a load of guff but the breathing exercises and visualistions were key.

to be honest it really doesn't sound like you need it and it is all a bit annoying although it does work. So what if you have gas and air at the end? It doesn't make you any less deserving of the childbirth medal. I only had it at the end too but I am pleased I did because it was very nice thank you very much!!
i found the cds helped me stay in control and not be frightened. no more than that though...

good luck!