FAQs

Who is HypnoBirthing suitable for?
Can you guarantee a pain-free labour and birth?
When should I start classes?
Can I learn just from a book and CD?
Does my partner or husband have to attend?
Do you offer concessions?
Is HypnoBirthing and BirthSense supported by the NHS?

Who is HypnoBirthing suitable for?

The course is for first time mums and women who have given birth before (either vaginally or by c-section). It helps women who are scared of childbirth because they have never done it before, who are anxious because of a previous experience, or who just want a calmer, easier, more natural birth experience.

Can you guarantee a pain-free labour and birth?

Many BirthSense mums report pain-free labour and birth, but it is important to realise that this is not the goal of HypnoBirthing. Instead we focus on "more comfortable" birth. There are many factors that can affect a birth, and no way of knowing in advance what those factors will be or how you personally will experience them. However, as a guide, around 50% of BirthSense clients do not use any pain relief, with around 30% using gas and air only. The remainder tend to experience circumstances where extra help is required.

When should I start classes?

You can attend classes any time from your 20 week scan up to the month you are due if you choose to do so. However the idea time to start is around 30 weeks. This will give you adequate time to practise the techniques, whilst the course should still be fresh in your  mind when you come to giving birth.

Can I learn just from a book and CD?

HypnoBirthing - the Mongan Method is a comprensive guide to the theories behind the course, and the implementation of the techiques described will certainly be beneficial. However, what the book and CD alone cannot give you is the one-to-one guidance to help you master the techniques needed. You will also miss out on the hypnotherapy, information for the birth partner and assistance with the birth plan.

Does my partner or husband have to attend?

The HypnoBirthing method is unique in that the birth partner (whoever that may be) plays a specific role in the birth, and the course therefore assumes their presence. However, women who plan to give birth with no partner present can still benefit greatly from the course, and are welcome to attend the course alone.

Do you offer concessions?

Courses are free of charge for NHS midwives. We also offer one concessionary place per group course for couples with limited income or previous birth trauma. Please contact us to discuss further.

Is HypnoBirthing and BirthSense supported by the NHS?

The HypnoBirthing philosophy is endored by NHS midwives who would agree that relaxation greatly improves the childbirth experience. It is impossible to speak for all midwives, but many in the UK endorse and recommend HypnoBirthing, and BirthSense is certainly recommended in this area, with most BirthSense clients attending on midwife advice. Suffice to say that many midwives, obstetricians and doctors have chosen BirthSense to help them prepare for their own births, and the group spends a great deal of time working with local NHS units to improve understanding and support for HypnoBirthing couples.

Please contact us for more information, or click here to book a course