Frequently asked questions

What is HypnoBirthing® ?

Go to About HypnoBirthing®

HypnoBirthing® is suitable for first time mums and mums who've had babies before. We help women who may be anxious about the birth because they've never done it before, who are scared because of a bad experience last time, or who just want a calmer, easier, more natural birth experience.

If you're pregnant, and looking for an alternative to the over-medicalised, pain-is-inevitable, "give me all the drugs" mindset, then HypnoBirthing® is for you.

No, absolutely not. With HypnoBirthing® (in fact, virtually all hypnosis), you are aware of what is going on around you but you can just 'tune out' the distractions. Visit our page about hypnosis.

Hypnosis is absolutely safe and nothing to be scared of. Unfortunately, TV, film and stage portrayal of hypnosis has left a lot of people with a mistaken view of what hypnosis is, and what it can (and can't) do.

No. There are many factors that can affect a birth, some of which are outside of our control. Also, like any childbirth preparation class, the success of the techniques is related to the amount of practice you put in.

However, as a guide, we find that around 65-70% of HypnoBirthing® mums don't need any form of pain relief. Nearly all the mums in this category simply don't experience any pain - just pressure.

Around a further 20-25% only require something mild, like gas and air.

The remaining 5-10% usually fall into what we call 'special circumstances', where medical intervention is required. However, the HypnoBirthing® mums still tell us that HypnoBirthing® really helped - even if they were induced, or ended up with a caesarean.

Remember - the aim of HypnoBirthing® is not a completely pain-free and picture-perfect 'natural' birth (although that is possible). It is to have a calmer, easier, more comfortable birth- where you are in control - and in a way that most mirrors Nature.

For up to date details see our class details and bookings pages.

Both. I run group classes with a maximum of 5 mums in each class and I run private classes at a time and place to suit you and your birthing partner. You choose who to bring along. Most classes are run in the evenings so that working mums and their birthing partners can both attend. If you work unusual hours, a private class may suit you better.

To book your place go to our bookings page. If you would prefer to see me on an individual basis please contact me for prices and availability.

For details see our class details page.

Somewhere between 25-30 weeks is ideal, as the success of the course is strongly linked to how much practice you do. However, provided you can finish the course before you give birth, it's still going to help (In fact, women have given birth half-way through the course and it still helped).

Yes - birthing companions are a very important part of HypnoBirthing® success. However, if your partner/husband cannot attend all the classes and/or help you practice or attend the birth, your mother, sister or friend can also be your birthing companion.

Whoever you choose (and we recommend it's the father if at all possible, as it helps build a strong relationship with the child), they must be available to attend all the classes and the birth.

If you would like to ask any other questions please complete our contact form and we will contact you.

Who is HypnoBirthing® suitable for?

Will I be 'out of it' if I use HypnoBirthing® ?

I'm scared of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Is HypnoBirthing® safe?

Can you guarantee a completely pain-free labour and birth?

Where and when do HypnoBirthing® classes run?

Do HypnoBirthing® classes run in groups or just individual couples?

How much do HypnoBirthing® classes cost?

When should I start the classes?

Does my partner/husband have to attend the classes?