What Does Hypnobirthing Mean?
What Exactly Is Hypnobirthing – and Who Is It For?
Before giving birth, it’s natural for expectant mums to feel anxious or tense. Hypnobirthing focuses on reducing these fears using guided hypnosis techniques. The goal is to achieve a lasting state of deep relaxation. We asked our midwife, Ivonne Teufl, what she thinks about hypnobirthing and what her experience with it has been.
Ivonne, What’s Your Opinion on Hypnobirthing?
I’m often asked this question. My answer is: “For me, the most important thing is that birth is built on trust and relaxation.” Hypnobirthing often helps birthing women let go more easily, switch off their thoughts, and find their way into a calm, relaxed state.
What Is Hypnobirthing?
It’s common for mums-to-be to feel anxious or tense ahead of giving birth. Hypnobirthing focuses on reducing these fears using specific hypnosis techniques. The goal is to achieve a deep and lasting state of relaxation.
Hypnobirthing Course
Personally, I find certain elements of a hypnobirthing course – like breathing techniques and relaxation exercises – very helpful. However, I want to emphasise that I don’t recommend it as the only form of birth preparation, as it’s often led by instructors without a background in midwifery or obstetrics.
My personal advice: The best preparation for every mum-to-be is a birth preparation course. If you’re interested in hypnobirthing, I recommend reading professional books or listening to audiobooks on the topic. It’s more affordable – and you can still learn the techniques to use during labour.
Real-Life Hypnobirthing Experience
I’d like to share a story about Ramona’s birth, which I supported as her midwife in the delivery room. She chose a hypnobirthing course to prepare for her child’s birth. During the course, she learned a range of breathing and relaxation techniques to help her manage pain during labour.
Our experience: During the first 4 hours of the opening phase, Ramona applied the breathing techniques very well and managed the contractions on her own. The course had clearly helped her relax.
A Midwife as Mental Support During Birth
But as the contractions became more intense, she mentally checked out. Fear took over, and she needed me by her side as a motivator. At a certain point, she could no longer apply what she had learned. Her experience was far from “pain-free.” Ramona was disappointed – she had expected more from the hypnobirthing method.
My Advice on Hypnobirthing
If you’re interested in a hypnobirthing-based birth preparation course, I strongly recommend choosing one led by a practising midwife who is also trained in hypnobirthing.
A hypnobirthing course without a midwifery background is, in my view, not enough. Every mum-to-be deserves realistic, experienced and authentic guidance through her birth journey.
With love, Your Ivonne
Parenting Guide for Young Families
When a new life is on the way, the excitement is overwhelming! But of course, pregnancy, birth, the postnatal period and breastfeeding all come with their own challenges. It’s reassuring to have a midwife by your side – someone with real expertise in childbirth. At Fellhof, you’ll now find practical tips and advice from midwife Ivonne on everything to do with labour and birth. Enjoy reading!
