John Wolstenholme MNRAH MNCH (Reg)
NHS Provider No 8GR66
A free Initial Consultation is given at or around 32 weeks, and then we normally have three further sessions. A partner is welcome to come to one of these sessions to experience hypnosis and to understand the process. After the sessions, the therapy and the learning continues at home by the mum-to-be using the supplied CDs or tapes. These reinforce what is learned during the sessions.
The potential advantages of Hypnosis for Childbirth include:
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Reduction of labour time.
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Less analgesic drug required (if any), reducing risks.
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Less exhausted mother after the birth.
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A less stressed baby.
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A generally calmer birthing experience.
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Less tearing (potentially less need for an episiotomy).
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Reducing labour time
In many cultures of the world, women give birth calmly and quietly, but in the western world we are brought up to perceive birth as painful. It’s well established that hypnosis reduces the first stage of labour by c2 hours in a multigraveda (mum-to-be who’s already a mum) and possibly c3-4 hours in a primagraveda (1st time mum).
Less analgesic drug therapy (if any)
Using Hypnotherapy can significantly reduce pain during delivery. Even if an analgesic is required, using Hypnotherapy can reduce the amount required, reducing the risks to you and your baby. It is frequently found that no painkillers are required at all, as the only sensations experienced are movement and pressure. You will be taught a powerful self-hypnosis technique (‘glove anaesthesia’).
Episiotomy
Due to relaxation in the final stages of labour, there is often no, or little tearing (if no ‘anxious’ pushing has been applied). Even if episiotomy is required, self-suggestion can be used for the peri-anal area.
Less stressed baby
While giving you a more relaxing, calm and less stressed experience, there is of course less stress on your baby too. Many mums report that their babies cry less, feed and sleep better.
In many cultures of the world, women give birth calmly and quietly, but in the western world we are brought up to perceive birth as painful. It’s well established that hypnosis reduces the first stage of labour by c2 hours in a multigraveda (mum-
Less analgesic drug therapy (if any)
Using Hypnotherapy can significantly reduce pain during delivery. Even if an analgesic is required, using Hypnotherapy can reduce the amount required, reducing the risks to you and your baby. It is frequently found that no painkillers are required at all, as the only sensations experienced are movement and pressure. You will be taught a powerful self-
Episiotomy
Due to relaxation in the final stages of labour, there is often no, or little tearing (if no ‘anxious’ pushing has been applied). Even if episiotomy is required, self-
Less stressed baby
While giving you a more relaxing, calm and less stressed experience, there is of course less stress on your baby too. Many mums report that their babies cry less, feed and sleep better.
The concepts behind using hypnosis in childbirth are based on the teachings of Dr Grantly Dick-Read (1890-1959), a British obstetrician and the founder of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT). In the 1920s-30s, Dr Dick-Read made the important link between fear-tension-pain, and he promoted natural childbirth.