I have just started reading a book on "hypno birthing" which is a form of self-hypnosis through relaxation and visualisation.
The concept sounds wonderful but it is an American book and I was just wondering if anyone has experienced this first hand or supported a woman who has tried it in labour - and what did you think/ how did you find it?
Debby
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Dear Debby
“Hypno birthing” is achieved when a midwife uses neuro-linguistic programming during her on-going pregnancy care.
The aim of such programming is to have the woman totally in control of her birth experience.
Desired behavioural changes that the woman wishes to achieve, along with suggested ways she will do this are discussed and reinforced by the midwife each time she visits. During the labour and the birth the midwife continues to suggest to the woman that these desired changes are indeed happening – as of course they DO because the woman is using the power of her subconscious to attain her goals!
Most midwives are experts in neuro-linguistic programming. Most of them gain this skill without ever having heard the word ‘neuro-linguistic’ or completed a course in applied psychology. But they ARE able to form close relationships with women; listen to their needs and encourage them to achieve them. They are also able to trust women and trust birth.
Programming towards ‘hypno-birthing’ then follows as she build up the woman’s self confidence during the pregnancy care. Be aware, this type of programming can only be achieved with continuous care from the one midwife.
Books on Neuro-linguistic programming and self hypnosis abound in most bookshops.
There are also encouraging words to be read in the books from professional motivators like Anthony Robins.
It is well worth your while to attend some of the sessions with people like Anthony when they are visiting Australia.
Anthony even gets people to walk over red-hot coals as part of his demonstration of how neuro-linguistic programming leading to a self-hypnotic state can achieve this goal (if it is desired by the individual).
You can easier understand the benefits of midwives having these motivating skills to achieve natural births once you have attended such sessions. I think ALL midwives are able to motivate like Anthony, but first they must learn to trust themselves. One of my clients taught me that lesson many years ago.
I have continued to combine my skills, trust and knowledge to the benefit of my clients over time.
I manage to get women to sleep between contractions if they are tired; take time out for a break from their labour, if that is what their changed family circumstances dictate; watch them as they stand before a mirror in their bedroom, giving birth and saying “Wow! Look what I’m doing!”; listen to them as they say after delivering a 4,300k baby “I know this sounds strange, but I really ENJOYED that!”; I can even manage to stand aside while a woman who has just had a magnificent waterbirth say to her partner, as the baby attempts to suckle .... “you can get the pliers and remove the nipple rings now darling” ..... My respect for women and THEIR management of THEIR bodies has increased immensely over the years and I have been proud to be a part of their self-determination.
Jan Robinson
