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My Amazing Hypnobirthing Home Birth

My Home Birth Story

On Saturday 24 February 2018 @ 17.15 we welcomed Jack Ross Coleshill into the world. It was an amazing experience. Reinforcing to me why I’d been right to trust my instinct and have a home birth. I’d had amazing support from my midwife Kay. I’d been lucky enough to have Kay for all my appointments apart from one. Kay was so supportive about home birth this too made me confident in my decision.

I think i’m in labour…

I’d not slept amazingly well the night before but unlike my first pregnancy this time round I hadn’t been sleeping great. I suffer from terrible indigestion during pregnancy right from the word go but this time round it was even worse. Causing me to wake several times a night. I didn’t think too much of not sleeping great but I was a bit achy which made me think it could be the early stages of labour.

Even though I suspected labour I went off to my lovely pregnancy yoga class, held by the fabulous Muriel who runs MuMuYoga. Just perfect a yoga class to put me in a truly relaxed body if labour was imminent. It was a lovely class although I did notice a few of the positions I was finding uncomfortable reinforcing to me that something was going on. This didn’t stop me going to meet one of my best friends, Kelly for a coffee and pastry though after yoga! In hindsight I wish i’d had a full on lunch!! Kelly did look slightly alarmed when I turned up and said I think I might be in labour. Kelly was the first person I said to that I thought it was happening.

The drive home after my coffee was slightly uncomfortable. My breath work came into play for the tightenings. My son Oliver had stayed with his Grandparents the night before so I went to collect him as in my mind I wasn’t sure how many hours it would be before established labour. When I arrived he was fast asleep so I left him and drove home. I’d not said I thought I was in labour as didn’t want to panic them nor be told I shouldn’t drive home! As soon as I knew I was on my way home though it was amazing how the body responded. I just wanted to be home as the tightenings felt stronger and I labour was happening. I was excited to meet my baby and hopefully have my home birth.

The real deal

I got home just before 2pm and the moment my husband Jamie opened the front door my whole body relaxed and that feeling of ahhhhh I’m home came over me. My safe place. I said to Jamie I’m in labour. As you can imagine he looked slightly surprised seeing as I’d been out and about! Jamie got to work inflating the birth pool we’d hired and getting it filled. He called my parents to ask them to keep hold of Oliver as I was in labour. They must have been thinking we only saw her 20 minutes ago!

From the moment of getting home my surges came on very quickly. I was anticipating a build up and had been told to call the hospital when I was having 1 surge every 5 minutes. This never happened for me they came straight in at every 2 minutes lasting around 40 – 49 seconds. I had been recommended a TENS machine which worked as a great distraction tool. I used this as soon as I could as I’ve heard a lot of women say they tried to use it too late.

Call the midwife

Jamie put a call in to the labour ward and two midwifes, Komal and Lisa arrived at around 14.30. They explained they were in the area but due to go off duty at 4pm but wanted to make sure I was okay. I wanted to be examined and was around 5/6 cm dilated – music to my ears. As I was in established labour the midwifes said they would stay until my assigned midwife, George, came on duty at 4pm.

The midwifes, Komal & Lisa were amazing. Lisa was a trainee midwife and was fantastic. I was her first home birth. I’m an advocate of trainees so delighted she got to experience my home birth. When Komal & Lisa arrived they filled me with confidence immediately. They told me that Kay had briefed them on me as she thought I may go into labour that weekend when she wasn’t on duty. This filled me confidence in my team as I felt they knew me already. It also made me feel very cared for that Kay had taken the time to do that therefore further increasing those oxytocin levels.

Being at home allowed me to not seek permission. I trusted my body and being in my own environment was just amazing. I stood up through all of my surges and used my breath work as it gave me the most relief. I’d wanted to be as active as possible during labour but my body took over and didn’t allow me to be anything other than active.

Birthing in water

George arrived not long before I wanted to get in the water. Immediately I felt a connection with George which was great. At this point Komal & Lisa could have left. They decided to say as Lisa had never been present at a home birth. Lisa facilitated most of my birth and she was brilliant. Even though I had 3 midwifes present I never felt that I was being observed. They were totally respectful.

I couldn’t wait to get in the pool. It must have been for around the last hour I laboured in the pool. The warm water felt amazing. The water taking my weight. The feeling of buoyancy allowed me to be active and move around as needed. This part of my labour passed very quickly. I never had a steady transition phase. I went from breathing through surges to feeling like I had an overwhelming urge to push. In my head I knew I had to use my breath work rather than push and to go with my body. Through every surge I kept my body relaxed, not tensing my face and using my hypnobirthing down breath which gave me a great focus.

Jamie was a great support as were the midwifes. Personally I like interaction during labour and encouragement and was looking to them to know all was okay. I can remember asking them a couple of times was I doing okay. My midwifes were so respectful of hypnobirthing that it threw them slightly when I wanted to talk.

It got to a point when in my head I thought I can’t do this anymore. I knew this was a positive though and birth was imminent. I felt my waters go at a similar time which was a strange popping sensation! It was at this point that Jamie asked me if I wanted any gas and air. He must have sense the change in my demeanour. So for the last 10 minutes I used this along with my visualisation. Jack was born very quickly it almost felt like he was born in one go. My midwife did agree that there wasn’t much rest-bite between the head and the rest of his body!

My birth plan had requested that the midwife bring the baby out of the water. I know that it must be magical bringing your baby up but I felt happier that the midwife did this for me. We all forgot this was the plan though so after a few seconds Jack appeared. Jamie announced the sex of Jack and we were very pleased Oliver had a brother.

Jack was very calm when he was born and has continued to be since. Hypnobirthing babies tend to be calmer babies who sleep and feed well. Jack is a stereotypical hypno baby like his brother i’m pleased to say.

Post birth

Just after Jack was born the official second midwife arrived, Zoe. She too was lovely immediately making me feel at ease.

My midwifes set up my bedroom for me where we moved to once we were out of the pool. The beauty of a home birth climbing on to you own bed! I had requested delayed cord clamping which was done followed by a physiological third stage to deliver the placenta. This took 50 minutes. I had had a managed third stage with my first birth so I’m pleased I’ve got to experience both now. In enables me to give a well rounded view of both to clients.

Transfer to hospital

I did have to be transferred to hospital after birth as I had a tear that Zoe wanted assessed upon her examination. This didn’t upset me as I’d been lucky enough to have had my home birth. Its policy that women are transferred by ambulance but as I wasn’t high priority I had a lovely couple of hours in my bed with Jack. The paramedics were lovely when they arrived and transferred me. George came with me in the ambulance and was lovely to chat to on the way. She was amazing during my examinations at the hospital and stayed with me the entire time.

I wasn’t upset or disappointed that I had been transferred as after my tear was sutured I knew I could go home. Once I had been sutured I was given the choice to stay over night at hospital as I’d have to come in for Jack’s post birth checks the following day anyhow. I decided against this as i’d wanted a home birth to be in the comfort of my own home after birth. It was so amazing getting back into my own bed and waking up there.

Reflecting on my experience

It was an incredible feeling to have birthed in my own home. I’d recommend it to any low risk woman. Its wonderful to be able to describe my birth as amazing. A word that people are often surprised that I use to describe birth especially those who haven’t had a baby before. Birth truly is amazing and I wish every woman could achieve a positive birth experience. I’m lucky to have the pleasure of working with many women to help them achieve this.

My team from West Middlesex Hospital were beyond fantastic – midwifes truly are angels in disguise. I felt very lucky to have had a relationship throughout my pregnancy with one midwife. They then ensured that Kay did all my post natal visits too. I know Kay was disappointed to have not been on duty when I went into labour. It was a sad day when i had my last post natal appointment with Kay.

My tips

Don’t tell everybody you’re planning a home birth

Unfortunately there is still a lot of negativity around home birth even though the stats show for low risk women its a very safe way to birth. So I decided not to shout it from the roof tops that it was my plan. This way I put no pressure on myself nor have to listen to any negativity about why would you do that when we have hospitals. Normally the negative comments aren’t supported by fact either.

Ignore your due date!

I’d been very chilled during my first pregnancy – taking not much notice of my hospital due date. I worked with the dates I believed were more accurate which meant that 40 week milestone to me actually wasn’t 40 weeks. I continued this approach with my second pregnancy. Having this attitude I believe really does relax the body and calm the mind. I carry on my day to day life as normal as where the mind leads the body will follow. Being stressed about a due date isn’t going to encourage babies arrival – baby will arrive when baby is ready.

Trust your body

I wasn’t at all stressed during labour as it is a natural process. Being in a relaxed body keeps that uterus relaxed and the body not being stressed doesn’t cause it to produce adrenaline. Trust your birthing body.

Write an easy to read birth plan

I used The Positive Birth book to write my birth plan. My midwifes took the time to read my birth plan and respected my wishes throughout.

Ensure your birth partner either contributes to your birth plan or reads it. You want them to be on board with your wishes. My midwifes commented afterwards what an easy to read birth plan it was. I’d highly recommend using a visual birth plan.

Want to know more about how Hypnobirthing can help you through pregnancy and birth?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses around London and Surrey. Areas include Chertsey, Hampton, Hillingdon, Isleworth, Kingston, Richmond, Sheen, St Margarets, Sunbury, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham, Weybridge, Windsor.

For my group courses I’m taking bookings for June course in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

My amazing hypnobirthing home birthMy amazing hypnobirthing home birth

My amazing hypnobirthing home birth

 

 

 

 

Can Hypnobirthing Be Used For All Types of Births?

Find yourself wondering can hypnobirthing be used for all types of births?

Yes absolutely hypnobirthing can be used for all types of births. Unfortunately sometimes hypnobirthing can be stereotyped as a hippy type course. It’s only for a natural birth with absolutely no pain relief. This really isn’t the case. People have pre-conceptions about it saying oh no that’s not for me when they don’t realise the theory behind it. It’s about understanding the birthing body and the science behind it. If we know how it works the easier we can work with it rather than against it. Keeping our stress hormones down and allowing the Oyxtocin hormone to flow around a calm body. We all know being calm is the best way to be in any given situation.

Hypnobirthing can be used in all birth scenarios. I’ve taught a range of clients who have used their techniques for whatever route their birth takes. Sometimes birth does take a different route to how you’d thought it might. This is where hypnobirthing is fantastic. It allows a women to feel she had control over the birth and was part of the decision making process. The outcome of this? A Mother who was happy with the birth outcome because she consented and understood why birth took this route. Rather than being panicked and anxious therefore agreeing to whatever was offered. The birth stories below all have this outcome. Hopefully they help alleviate any preconceptions you may have around hypnobirthing.

Hypnobirthing for a cesarean

“We had the c-sec on Friday and had a little boy. Bub decided it was a lot more comfortable head up right up to the end 🙂 We went with it and although it was very clinical and my birth plan was sidelined we still had a positive experience and he arrived safe and sound. We had amazing care and bub latched early on which is fab. Feeding has been bit of a challenge but it’s going well and my milk has come in so all in all it’s going swimmingly.

I’m sure because of the hypnobirthing and our attempt to approach it all in a calm and pragmatic wave. Recovery is going well and we’re settling in at home. I’m really mobile which is great and bub is super chilled. Thanks so much for you help and support along the way. You’ve no doubt helped us get off to a good start!”

Hypnobirthing for a home birth

“So turns out I am one of those in the 4% …. Our son arrived last night at 10pm after a pretty speedy labour. He was born at home and my husband just managed to get the pool inflated and filled in time! Our daughter slept through the whole thing and was delighted to wake up and discover her baby brother had arrived! He weighed in at 7lbs 9ounces and we are both doing really well. I know it’s not for everyone, but I would thoroughly recommend a home birth and delighted it worked out so perfectly for us.”

“What an amazing experience already! Baby arrived at 20.53 on Thursday evening. At home – not in the pool but with the most amazing people around me. Having a glass of champagne with the midwives and getting into our own bed that night! We have had visits form the home birth team since. My hypnobirthing breath came in for the early stages the final head push was touch and go but you sure dig deep!! I feel good, mending so quickly.”

Hypnobirthing on a labour ward

“Thank you so much for your help and support throughout. As with most births, it didn’t go quite to script but we still did our best to deploy the hypnobirthing techniques we’d learned with you, I think in particular in helped my husband, which allowed him t help me!

I had a sweep midday Friday (they were inducing on Monday) and I got contractions and broken waters by early evening. I managed to get to 7cm at home on my own before arriving at UCL at 2.30pm desperate for the gas and air and the water pool. I’d found the contractions intense, so much so I’d not kept my fluids up and when I arrived was severely dehydrated and the baby was finding the contractions fast and intense. We were rushed into the labour ward, I got my gas and air, but that’s all I needed and ‘Biscuit’ was born unaided within 2 hours of us arriving! So not the birth plan, but a great result! Thank you so much.”

Hypnobirthing techniques for an ECV (external cephalic version)

“We had a successful ECV last Friday to turn the baby, which wasn’t the most enjoyable thing in the world, but I think was good preparation for going into labour. I used my breathing and visualisation techniques during it, and the doctor was impressed with my pain threshold, which is good confirmation for me that they do work! I found a couple of the other things you said really helpful too, like it is important to stay relaxed to keep the baby relaxed, and that a hospital is an unnatural and unfamiliar environment, which I realised partly explained why I was nervous beforehand.

We have since managed to have a natural birth at the natural birth centre. We were very lucky that the labour itself was relatively straightforward. My waters broke at 1:30am, we then went to hospital at 1:00pm and our son was born at 8:13pm. Attending your classes definitely helped me to feel properly prepared, and to be positive and relatively calm, so thanks again for all your help!”

Hypnobirthing for natural birth

“Our daughter was born at 7.30am on the 31st December with the first contraction at midnight. I had her in the birth centre but things moved pretty fast they didn’t have time to sort the pool for me! It was intense but so glad it went that way as recovery has been quick and we took her home at 3pm that day! We are besotted.”

“I am absolutely convinced that everything we’d learnt and practiced in the months leading up to my son’s birth was forefront in my mind and helped me to get through the whole experience.

My first surges about 10pm I wasn’t quite sure if they were real or not to start with! So I went to bed as normal and at around 2am, they were still going very consistently so I knew this was it! I woke up my husband and got myself in to the bath. At around 6am and a lot of bouncing around on my birthing ball, we phoned the hospital and they told us to come in. It’s amazing how quickly the time has flown by at home and how calm it all was.

At the hospital, I was examined and told I was 2cm dilated. I later found out I was actually 4cm but the midwives could see I’d done so well at home already, they wanted me to carry on being as calm as I was! A few hours later I was in the birthing suite and the pool was being filled ready for me. I suddenly felt the urge to push and turned out I was 9cm!

We had our hypnobirthing playlist on the iPod, I was in the pool with just gas and air and everything was just super chilled. Two amazing midwives (one was a student), my mum and husband. We just seemed to chat lots and I floated about in the pool! Now I’m not saying that I didn’t feel any sensations because I absolutely did, however there wasn’t a part of me at any point that needed to scream and shout and I didn’t ever feel that I needed any more pain relief than the gas and air.

After a good hour or so of pushing, my little boy still wasn’t quite ready to make his appearance so I has to get out of the pool and get back on to the bed. 15 minutes later he was born and the feeling was just incredible. The most surreal moment of my life.

After he was born, both the midwives said what a really lovely experience my birth had been for them because it was so calm, happy and relaxed from start to finish. Funnily enough, when I looked back at my hypnobirthing notes, Alison has asked us both to write a list of what we wanted our birthing experience to be and what we didn’t want it to be. It was pretty much exactly as we’d said we wanted it! Calm, chatting, relaxed, no intervention, water birth (almost!), laughter….My husband even got to tell me the sex of our baby, something else we’d both said we wanted to do.

Alison is still a good friend to us and I know she will be able to help so many more couples to have the positive birth experience that we had. My advice to everyone is to fully embrace it, stay positive and optimistic throughout and be open minded.”

Hypnobirthing for shoulder dystocia

“Labour had started at 6pm the previous day at after arriving at hospital at 6am. After being held in triage it was at this point I requested  an epidural. The gas and air they gave me helped but not enough. As soon as I got the epidural I felt so much better. From then on rested whilst I dilated to 10cm around midday.

The midwife then said I would need to start pushing. We started that but it wasn’t progressing quickly enough and they were worried about the babies heart rate. I then had an episiotomy and a bit of ventouse. Her shoulder was stuck (shoulder dystocia). I was very focused on my pushing and visualisations to notice the rush of people. This is where the hypnobirthing really paid off for me as I was not panicked in anyway at this point. I just really went into my zone of down breathing visualisations even though I was having to push. They managed to get the shoulder free and she was born safely! All was good!

So although it wasn’t what I had imagined and as I expected the epidural lead to more intervention. I still felt in control once I had the epidural. I’d done the safest thing for me and baby as I had felt I had lost control of my body. I still would use it for another birth and hope to be able to manage a labour with it if we have another baby! I had practised the breathing so much and the visualisations.”

Hypnobirthing for a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean)

“Thank you for the sessions. They really helped me prepare for the birth and made me feel much more positive and in control.

I had a gorgeous baby boy on 31st May and a successful VBAC birth that I wanted. I ended up being induced after 10 days using the cooks balloon method. After nothing happened they put me on the hormone drip. By this point I felt I lost my positive energy and fear took over again so I opted for the epidural. This was actually amazing for me as I only topped it up once. It calmed me down and allowed me to rest and get back into my hypnobirthing zone. I ended up in theatre at the end with vontuse delivery but this was fine. I felt in control through this. The main thing is that I had my VBAC birth and had a healthy baby. Your sessions really helped me to go through with having a natural birth. It kept me in my zone during the long induction process.”

Still wondering can Hypnobirthing can be used for all types of births?

I wanted to share the success stories of Clients I’ve worked with and the different birth scenarios. Hopefully it will help you make a decision to see how hypnobirthing could help you during pregnancy or your birth.

Hypnobirthing also works amazingly well for women who may have previously suffered a traumatic birth. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching many second time Mum’s. They wanted birth to be a different experience by feeling more in control. Allowing them to let go of the fear.

It works for Dad’s who may be very anxious having never experienced this before. I’ve had many Mum’s say to me how well hypnobirthing helped Dad to be calm and great birth partner.

For expectant parents who have been fertility treatment. With a medicalised approach to birth to begin with it allows them to have a calm approach throughout the pregnancy.

Want to know more about how Hypnobirthing can help you?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses around London and Surrey. Areas include Chertsey, Hampton, Hillingdon, Isleworth, Kingston, Richmond, Sheen, St Margarets, Sunbury, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham, Weybridge, Windsor.

For my group courses I’m taking bookings for April course in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Is Hypnobirthing Worth It?

What price do we put on our birth experiences? Is hypnobirthing worth it?

As women we often put investment into our daily life routine. Be it our hair being cut and coloured, having regular blow drys, manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing appointments. These appointments become part of our routine even though they are costly and take a chunk of our disposable income.

When it comes to weddings there’s often no expense spared. On average, a wedding in the UK now costs £27,000 with the figure in London reaching £38,000! But when it comes to what is said to be one of the most memorable days of your life we can become complacent about how much is being spent. We want to have the best experience on our wedding day.

I know as a bride to be I spent an eye watering amount on beauty treatments leading up to the big day. Changing my gym routine. Being more conscious of my diet. A lot of preparation went into my big day. My budget for my dress doubled when I saw ‘the dress’.

So why when it comes to our birth experience why aren’t we encouraged to treat it in the same way as any other memorable occasion in our life? Why are we put off investing in educating and preparing ourselves for birth? We can’t just hope for a good birth experience we have to prepare for one.

How can hypnobirthing prepare me for a better birth experience?

Some people are put off by the cost of a hypnobirthing course. I often have parents say to me i’d like to do it but there is so much more to pay out for when you’re having a baby. This of course is very true. They are weighing up is hypnobirthing worth it. Preparing for a new arrival can become very costly. But what we can’t put a price on is an woman’s birth experience. A bad birth experience can haunt women for life. It can lead to post natal depression and consequently put a woman off having another baby. Even women who had planned to have more than one child stop at one after a negative experience.

Hypnobirthing prepares expectant parents for a birth they can feel in control of and approach in a calm manner. Understanding how the body works during the birthing process is a vital part of a calm birth. The more we understand the birthing body the easier it is to work with it. The more educated we are on birth the better prepared we are. Knowledge is power after all.

A pain free birth?

Hypnobirthing doesn’t promise you a pain free birth but what it does do is allow you to reframe birth. Lets not talk about pain lets talk about sensations. Those sensations you will experience will be far more manageable if you’re calm and relaxed. The reason for this is because the body won’t be producing adrenaline – we don’t need this during birth. We need the body to be be producing oxytocin – the feel good hormone and endorphins as these will ensure your uterus works effectively and efficiently.

All this being said many hypnobirthing mums will say their birth was relatively ‘pain’ free. I for one describe my birth experience as and enjoyable experience and i’d had harder days at work. Some would say I was just ‘lucky’. I wouldn’t I would say my husband and I educated ourselves in the lead up. We prepared as best as we could so when that day arrived we would feel prepared and we did.

Own your birth experience

My advice to all expectant Mum’s would be to own your birth experience. Don’t expect anybody else to take control of it for you. At the end of the day a busy London hospital will see 1000’s of women come through their doors on a monthly basis. They are there to facilitate your birth but you need to have the voice and communicate with your caregivers. Don’t allow choices to be taken away from you by not educating yourself. Unfortunately many women will say about their birth experience ‘I wasn’t allowed to do that’. ‘The hospital said I had to do that’. As birthing women we always have a choice. We have to consent to anything that happens to us. Hypnobirthing educates us on this.

Hypnobirthing gave me a voice when I was in labour. Being transferred to the labour ward after having had a nice experience on the natural birthing centre. It was hospital protocol i’d be in second stage too long to remain there. I had a voice when they started to prep me for theatre for an epidural. Asking what the alternative was. What happened? The alternative meant my baby was delivered promptly without me having an epidural.

So is hypnobirthing worth it?

In my eyes its worth every penny. It was the best investment I made during my pregnancy. The course left me feeling prepared and confident. A feeling I now love hearing that my clients have experienced also when we finish a course together.

I’d advise any pregnant lady give up a couple of those things that we have in our monthly routines. Get your other half to forgo a few nights out with friends. Those sports or gig tickets. By the time you forgo a few you’ve paid for a hypnobirthing course. A course that will leave you feeling prepared. So what your nails and hair may not look as preened but having a birth experience that you look back on as a positive and happy day is worth it.

Every woman deserves a birth that she felt in control of. One that may have been textbook or one that took a different route. Regardless of that it needs to be one that you were in control of and was the best birth for you. It’s your birth – own your birth and your body.

So is hypnobirthing worth it? I strongly believe so. Treat your birth in the same way you’d treat buying a house, getting married. Let it be a memorable experience. Investing in it as you would any other significant life event.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses in Teddington, St Margarets, Richmond, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton, Kingston and surrounding areas. I also offer group courses in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

I offer Twick Mum and YogaBellies Richmond ladies a 10% discount on all my courses.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Is Labour Painful?

Is labour painful?

The question that so many women have around labour and birth. Is labour painful? We’re surrounded with many stories that allude to this. Most women have been surrounded by this belief from a very young age. TV, films, books, peoples birth stories contribute to this belief. Its such an awful notion to believe that to have a family women have to endure hours of pain whilst in labour. We need to reframe this belief. We can’t hang on to negative thoughts or comments they aren’t helpful whatsoever. Don’t underestimate that ‘where the mind leads, the body follows’. Positive thinking is what you need not a belief that it has to be the painful way or no way!

I’m here to share with you that it doesn’t have to be this way.

But we all have different pain thresholds I hear you say

I would tell you that i’m a wimp! Had you asked me many years ago before i became a Mum – is labour painful? I’d have said of course it is! Having not even experienced it I’d have confidently told you of course it would be. A paper cut hurts me, I’m often asked by beauticians does that hurt because my legs have gone bright red during waxing. Yes it does hurt even though I’ve been having it done for 18 years! But ask me is labour painful? I’ll tell you no. I had a great labour. I often say I’ve had harder days at work! The reason I strongly believe it was this way? Because i was relaxed. I was looking forward to birth and meeting my baby. I was never alarmed when labour started. You can read more about my birth story here.

By being relaxed it really helps you manage any sensations that you are experiencing. If you’re able to manage these sensations early on then you’re conserving your energy stores.

Don’t underestimate your body and don’t look to birth to be painful. Take any association of pain away from your believe of what labour is. Yes labour is a very different sensation to any you may have experience before. Although some women liken it to premenstrual cramp. Its a hard sensation to describe I find personally but its certainly not one I described as painful.

Managing labour effectively

As a hypnobirthing teacher and having experienced childbirth there are many ways that we can manage labour. Firstly understanding our bodies. Many women aren’t aware of how amazing their bodies are. They are designed to give birth. Of course, there are circumstances where women can’t give birth naturally due to medical reasons. For those women, who are in the majority, that can give birth naturally we need to understand our bodies.

Breath is King

To appreciate that breath is KING is a good start. Don’t ever underestimate how powerful breathing techniques are. Not only during labour but in all walks of life. When we’re stressed, taking deep breaths help to calm us down. I teach a breath work called the up breath which is used in the first stage of labour. This breath is used as a relaxing breath and it produces a hormone that the body needs on the out breath, Oxytocin.

Birthing hormones

Understanding the hormones we need to keep our bodies relaxed. By doing this the uterus which is the muscle that births our baby is relaxed. If this muscle is tense it won’t work effectively and like any other muscle will start to produce lactic acid. This is not effective during labour. We keep our uterus relaxed by our bodies producing oxytocin. Oxytocin is also know as the love hormone. The same hormone your body produces when we’re kissed, hugged, have sex.

If your body is producing oxytocin you’re going to be in a happy state not tense or anxious. It’s when the stress hormone adrenaline kicks in that labour will begin to stall. The body will be tense, stressed and anxious. This is not conducive for labour. This is when women can be branded with ‘failure to progress’. When actually if they were in the right environment they could begin to relax.

Oxytocin breeds. So if you’re producing it those around you will start to as well and vice-versa. So the more calm and relaxed anybody involved in the birth can be the better.

Oxytocin works in harmony with fellow hormones endorphins and melatonin. Melatonin is encouraged in dark and quiet settings and inhibited by interruption and observation. Endorphins are natures natural pain relief. Promoted by oxytocin, laughter, love and stimulated by light touch and massage.

It’s amazing how the body can naturally produce all of these things to naturally promote a manageable labour – if we work with it.

How can hypnobirthing help?

Hypnobirthing can help you achieve a better birth. One that you feel in control of by learning how the body works. Understanding how if we’re stressed where it can lead to and how it uses energy levels we should be conserving. Using techniques that help stimulate endorphins through gentle stroking and massage. Listening to relaxations and believing in the power of the mind.

We don’t want to hold on to negative thoughts and with hypnobirthing we encourage you to let go of those. Release any of the fear and tension you may hold on to in the subconscious mind.

Hypnobirthing isn’t pain relief but it teaches you to understand how you can be in control of your birth and remain calm. Being calm is key because as soon as you become stressed the adrenaline will kick in. This is then when we start to see intervention, women’s contractions slowing down.

Learning the tools of hypnobirthing will mean you’re not left asking is labour painful? You’ll feel confident that you will be able to have a birth that you feel in control of and can manage. This isn’t just for a natural birth but any route your birth takes.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I offer hypnobirthing classes across Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

FAQs is labour painful

My Favourite Baby Items For My Hypnobaby

What baby items should I buy? Where do I start?

As a Mum to be it can be completely overwhelming with all of the decisions that need to be made. What course do I do? What is hypnobirthing? Which hospital will I have my baby at? Do I want a homebirth? Do I need to go to NCT? Then there’s the amount of baby items to choose from! Many friends shared their recommendations with me. I bought many items that I barely used much to the frustration of my other half! What I did find out though were the baby items that served me well. So here are my favourite buys that I bought for my very own hypnobaby.

Medela Breast Pump

Unfortunately I really struggled with breastfeeding. Therefore the breastfeeding counsellor advised to get an electric breast pump to express. As although we struggled to feed I still wanted to give Oliver the chance to have breast milk. Expressing was the perfect solution for us. It was really easy to use and not uncomfortable. The electric pump made it so much easier and quicker than a hand pump. Women really give themselves a hard time with breastfeeding. I’m a strong believer in as long as baby is fed and happy then you are doing your best. You’ve created a miracle – don’t forget you’re amazing! So if you’re struggling to feed, or wanting to express so that Dad or those around you can help with the feeds i’d highly recommend Medela.

Doctor Brown’s Bottles

I had so many recommendations for these bottles and I understand why. They are fantastic bottles. Oliver fortunately never suffered with colic whilst we used them. They were long lasting and I never had to replace the bottles. Well I did but only the ones I lost when I left them in various places!! They come with various teat sizes so I was able to keep Oliver on them until he gave up the bottle when he turned 1. If you’re bottle feeding my tip with bottles is to buy the full size bottles to start with. They move up so quickly to needing more milk that the smaller bottles become redundant quickly.

Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep

I bought this once I realised that I wasn’t going to be able to breast feed solely. This machine is brilliant! Especially at 3am allowing you to make an optimum temperature bottle in under 2 minutes. This made our lives so much easier. It’s really easy to use and maintain. Changing the filter is like changing any water filer and it alerts you when this is necessary. Considering the usage the filters last a good length of time – so don’t be put off by needing to change the filters.

Phil & Teds Travel Cot

This travel cot is fantastic! This baby item has gone on in to a toddler item as Oliver still sleeps in it now! It is more pricey than some others on the market but its well worth the money. It so compact it fits in a suitcase, is super light and the mattress is inflatable. An inflatable mattress might not sound that comfortable for your little bundle of joy but when the cover is on you’d know no different. Not bulky or heavy and very easy to put together. We have taken ours on many holidays and for overnight stays. Personally i’d always rather have my own travel cot than a hotel one but some may say i’m just being fussy. It doubles up as a play pen and they also sell a sun shade for it so it can be used outside. This was definitely money well spent.

Babyway Newborn Bath Seat

We had a flat folding bath seat we had never got used as I found the Babyway bath seat was so easy to use. Oliver was really secure and comfortable. It grips to the bath and allows the baby to sit in a comfortable position. Oliver never slipped in this seat he sat comfortably allowing us to play and wash him. The only downside its an awkward shape to store so ours took up residence in the bath!

Muslins

We went through so many muslins so I tried a fair few! Oliver still loves a muslin know to him as his ‘raggy’! I think raggy appears in our wedding pictures more than us! So as you can imagine they get washed copious amounts of time. 2.5 years on these are the ones I loved the most, kept their softness and wash up so well. Aden & Anais my heart still pangs every time i see a newborn with these – so sparkly white with the cute animal design. Given to us as a gift and because I know how well they have served us I now often buy them as a gift too.

Another excellent set that are great value are from Aldi by Kirkton House. These too were part of a newborn gift and I hunted them down once I realised how great they were. I signed up to the Aldi special buys emails so i knew when they were having a baby event and stocking them. 2.5 years on the original set are still going strong.

A couple of baby items I didn’t buy and in hindsight I would have…

So hindsight is a great thing and there are a couple of things I look back and think I would have bought that. Not that what I had didn’t serve me well but these would have been better buys.

Stokke Tripp Trapp highchair

At the time i looked at these highchairs and thought i’m not spending that much. Yes they are pricey but the lifespan of them is fantastic. Oliver now uses one with his childminder and they are the ideal size for dinner tables. Once they move out of the baby seat you can use this as a chair that a child can sit comfortably on. The height is adjustable and they come in a super range of modern and contemporary colours. This will definitely be one of my baby items purchase should we be lucky to have another baby in the future.

Uppababy Buggy

When we were looking at buggies I didn’t want to have a buggy with a carrycot. I wanted a buggy that could lie flat and also be a three wheeler. I was able to find a nice design that I liked and met these requirements. Unfortunately what I didn’t take into consideration was the amount of basket space. Why would I?! I wasn’t used to having to juggle shopping, a handbag, baby changing bag and a buggy! So this was a bug bearer for me that I had a pretty impractically sized, flimsy basket. The handle was adjustable but my back continued to ache as not being high enough. I often look at mothers with the Uppababy buggies and envy the basket space they have and how high the handles go. So if I was purchasing another buggy it would certainly be an Uppababy.

Hopefully these suggestions are helpful and don’t overwhelm or confuse you even further. They are just a few items that personally I think are good buys on the market. There are loads out there and it can becoming confusing. Just give yourself time to browse the stores and find the best items for you.

What I do when i’m not recommending baby items!

I’m busy helping expectant parents achieve the best birth for them. I offer hypnobirthing classes in Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Keep in touch

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with my courses and workshops taking place.

Ali x

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Birth Preparation Workshops

What is a Birth Preparation Workshop?

I host birth preparation workshops in conjunction with YogaBellies Richmond to help women and couples prepare for the birth of their baby. It is a nurturing, fun and informative 3 hours. We commence with an hours pregnancy yoga followed by two hour hypnobirthing workshop. Our intention is for people to feel relaxed and leave the workshop feeling more empowered and less anxious about birth.

A birth preparation workshop allows you to take time for relaxation. Allowing you to let go of any apprehensions and sharing your experiences with other new parents to be. It’s a nurturing workshop that allows you to relax, and take time for you and your baby. Allowing you the space to connect with the miracle growing inside you.

I enlighten attendees about the benefits of hypnobirthing. Educating on how if in the right environment we can encourage the birthing hormones. These hormones are so vital to encourage birth naturally and many of us are unaware of this. Inviting everybody to join in on relaxation and breathing techniques. We discuss any fears individuals may have and how hypnobirthing can help overcome those fears or anxieties.

Yoga compliments hypnobirthing as many of the beautiful poses are fantastic birthing positions. Opening up the pelvis so much more than lying on your back. They are open positions enabling a woman’s body to birth a baby more effectively and naturally. When a woman becomes more familiar with these positions during pregnancy hopefully they will come more naturally to take them up during labour.

Feedback received

The intention with the birth preparation workshop is for expectant parents to feel nourished and informed. I always encourage parents that even if they don’t go on to book a full KG hypnobirthing course to take away nuggets of info. Hopefully so that they are remembered when they go on to birth their baby. Be it how to encourage your birthing hormones, the breathing, keeping your jaw and face relaxed. If I can help somebody have the best birth for them then I’ve achieved what I set out to do.

A taste of the lovely feedback received from expectant Mum’s at the last workshop on the 10 June 2017 in Richmond, Surrey….

‘I thought the workshop was great and it has really inspired me not to be afraid or listen to negative stories!’

‘I really enjoyed it. Very informative.’

‘We’d both like to thank you for the workshop on Saturday – we both enjoyed it but more importantly found it positive and reassuring.’

‘Thanks again for such a great session.’

Many parents leave the session feeling inspired and do go on to book a full private or group course.

How often are the Birth Preparation Workshops held?

We aim to hold Birth Preparation Workshops every 2 months. We will be announcing a date very soon for a workshop for August 2017 in Richmond.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I offer hypnobirthing classes across Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

hypno baby - Birth Preparation workshop blog

Should I do Hypnobirthing or NCT classes?

Hypnobirthing VS NCT Classes

When i was pregnant I was lucky enough to be able to attend Hynobirthing and NCT courses. Some of us may not have that luxury be it due to money or time. I’m often asked what are the differences so luckily i’m able to give my views. What one would you suggest if i can only do one? Do they overlap in content? From experience they are both great but for different reasons.

I am firm believer in knowledge is power.  So to be as educated as  I could be would mean more control during labour. My hypnobirthing course was really interesting and opened my eyes up to how amazing the birthing body is. Both my partner, Jamie and I learnt so much. Jamie who was sceptical at first was an advocate by the time our course had ended. Hypnobirthing made him a great birth partner – I fundamentally believe this. Jamie gained a great understanding of birth. He knew what we needed to do to help achieve the birth i’d set out for. He also became very interested when he was able to liken it to sport!

Hypnobirthing Course

We did a private hypnobirthing course as I wanted that 1-2-1 experience. For me the 1-2-1 course would be in the comfort of my own home at times that suited me. I offer this 1-2-1 option for expectant parents. Many couples like the idea of a group hypnobirthing course. Therefore I offer this option too as they are able to meet other expectant parents. Perhaps discuss elements of pregnancy and birth they’d not considered.

My hypnobirthing course sets out to make the expectant parents as relaxed as possible. I work with the parents to understand what they want to get out of the course. I am then able to run the course taking their needs into consideration. If there are any fears what they are and how we can work through them. Hypnobirthing is an holistic approach to birth. With this in mind I don’t focus on pain relief in great detail. Most of my clients are hoping to achieve a natural birth. My teaching is around educating people how they can try to achieve this. How working with your breath is a natural pain relief.

For me its very important that we cover how birth sometimes can takes a different journey. If this happens how you can apply hypnobirthing techniques to that birth. Understand why it may have taken that course and be happy with the outcome. Hypnobirthing isn’t just about birthing naturally its for all types of birth and the best birth for you.

NCT Courses

The NCT class was a great opportunity to meet local expectant Mums in the area. Our teacher was great asking us what we wanted to get out of NCT and what we wanted to learn. You felt like you had ownership over your course. We covered things like what happens if you have a c-section. Preparing you for what would happen, how many people would be in theatre. The breastfeeding class was great and left me feeling very positive.

I think with group courses where you could have different views on birth it can be quite daunting. Some Mums are adamant they are having an epidural as they are convinced that birth will be a painful ordeal. Its understandable its what we’ve been lead to believe through gruesome stories, media, TV, films. This experience can be quite a negative one within a group environment. That’s where hypnobirthing steps in to help you overcome these fears and anxieties. To break down what can happen if you have an epidural. Expectant Mum’s need all the info to enable them to make an informed decision.

The main difference for me was that i found NCT a very functional approach. It felt like I was in a classroom learning but in a relaxed environment. With hypnobirthing I felt like I had left in a meditative state feeling so relaxed and excited about birth. NCT didn’t leave me feeling excited as it was quite matter of fact. Not in a negative way whatsoever but just a different approach.

The key things I learnt through hypnobirthing

With Hypnobirthing we break down the elements of birthing and the implications of procedures. For example epidurals and how they can lead to intervention. How an induction works and what the body does when its pumped with artificial Oxytocin. The body can’t break it down as it does with natural Oxytocin. For me these are key facts that women should be educated on as so they can understand what can happen.

Having a good understanding of this enabled me to know what i’d like to try and achieve during labour. I would never discourage anybody from having pain relief as sometimes its needed and birth doesn’t always go as planned. But having an understanding of the birthing hormones – oxytocin, melatonin and endorphins, this helps enormously with keeping you calm. Understanding why you need to keep your stress levels down to enable the body to birth more effectively. Keeping the stress hormone, adrenaline, at bay. Many women don’t have an understanding of these and by educating people about these we can help achieve better births.

For me hypnobirthing is far more than just downloading an app and listening to relaxations. A course is in depth and teaches you the importance of relaxation, practice, understanding how the body works. Most importantly it ensures the expectant Father or birthing partner is a fundamental part of hypnobirthing. They understand what is happening. What you want and can act as your voice when you are in labour and take control of situations. Most expectant fathers I teach are often really impressed. By the end of a hypnobirthing course they’ve have had their eyes well and truly opened. Left feeling like they have a true role to play during labour and how they can help in pregnancy. Hypnobithing isn’t only about Mum it’s about the Father and/or Birthing partner and baby too.

The choice is yours…

We’re all different so I never deter expectant parents from doing either course. Its all down to personal choice. There are elements in both courses that I found really interesting. For myself, who tries to take an holistic, natural approach to life I loved the hypnobirthing course. I found learning about how we can work with our bodies amazing. Understanding how a water birth can be a natural pain relief. How successfully women birth at home and why. How we can continue to use those birthing hormones after labour to encourage successful breastfeeding. NCT educated me on other aspects of birth i’d not considered – labour wards, c-sections, vaccinations. An in depth class on breastfeeding.

If you can’t do both understand what both courses can offer you. What is important to you and what you want to get out of a course. Have conversations with your local NCT teachers and hypnobirthing teachers to understand what they offer. Do you get support after the course? I offer all my Mums to be continuing support once the course has finished. I think this is vital in your role as a hypnobirthing teacher. We’re there to support expectant parents and beyond.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I offer hypnobirthing classes across Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Hypnobirthing Mumma’s Wedding

Wedded Bliss in the Sunshine!

Isn’t it amazing what sunshine does for us all. Makes you feel happy. People are smiling. We’re all so much friendlier! Vitamin D is good for the soul. I’ve been enjoying picking up where i left off a few weeks ago in Florida enjoying the beautiful sunshine and summer like weather in London. It caste me back to 4 weeks ago…. The wedding day had arrived – which had been 18 months in the making.

Since getting engaged on my birthday in 2015 my world had been consumed with not only my amazing hypno baby boy Oliver but also an exciting time of wedding planning. My inner little girl dreaming of getting married in a beautiful sparkly wedding dress had come true! The day came and as all brides say it passed in a flash. At 1am I had to admit defeat and leave the hardcore guests who were still standing around the pool to party on without me! Brides prerogative and all that…

The Wedding Day – 27.04.17

It was a wonderful day surrounded by most of our closest friends and family in the beautiful setting which Anna Maria Island, Florida. Set on a beach that is so white and impressed all of our guests. So much so my very good friend Cathy, co-owner of Puddle Ducks South West London, upon arrival said ‘why are there are diamonds in the sand’.

I started my day with a massive plate of pancakes, blueberries and maple syrup in the delightful Ginny’s & Jane’s cafe. Against tradition I enjoyed this with the groom Jamie and our son Oliver. As the getting ready process begun i was spoilt to be joined by lifelong friends throughout the day.

We picked The Sandbar to hold our wedding as it ticked all the boxes of what we were looking for. It was a very relaxed affair and I wanted people to enjoy the day not be worried about formalities. I wanted the guests who had kids with them to be able to enjoy the day. Not feeling like they need to keep the kids quiet or keep them seated in their seats for hours. By total coincidence the cottage we were staying in practically backed onto the entrance of Sandbar. I couldn’t have planned it any better if i’d tried.

Dad & I managed to walk down the aisle without tripping over one another as I was struggling to walk in the sand! We laughed all the way down the aisle which was great although took us a while to even get to the aisle as Oliver was insisting Grandad picked him up. Thankfully he took the hand of my Maid of Honor and his Godmother Lauren and eventually lead the way. At one point i was thinking they will need to re-start the song My Girl at this rate but then he decided he’d walk. Lets be honest he was the star of the show.

We invited guests to wear what they were comfortable in, bring the kids and to just enjoy themselves. The outcome a very happy set of guests on the day. We didn’t exchange rings instead opted for a sand ceremony where 2 sands are blended into one bottle. Whizzing through the vows so we could get on to the fun part! Piña coladas and mojitos consumed and copious portions of food to ensure everybody was well fed. The kids were well entertained with gift bags but i think the selfie station was more of a winner with them!

A big thanks to our support team

My superwoman also known as ‘Essex Kelly’ to differentiate between my childhood friend ‘Richmond Kelly’ joined me at 10am. I could write a book about this girl – her efforts on my wedding day were truly amazing. To say I feel blessed to have her in my life is an understatement. There is nothing Kelly wouldn’t have done for me and yes she helped me pee at the end of the night. She’d also held my hair back whilst throwing my guts up after my hen party. So i’m sure you’re getting the jist about how amazing she is. Her opening words when she arrived were this is your day and i’ll do anything you need me to. She was true to her word. She ensured the fizz was flowing whilst we were getting ready too.

The best man and his gorgeous girlfriend popped in during the course of the day to say hi – and yes Neerav certainly earns the title of Best Man. He is an amazing friend to Jamie & I and fantastic Godfather to Oliver. Helping me plan to surprise Jamie with his wedding gift. He put him off the scent by presenting him with a pair of personalised flamingo boxers. 15 minutes later he presented the real present – a watch. Can’t wait to see the look of disappointment on Jamie’s face with the boxers, as Chelsea our photographer was on hand to capture the moment!

Jamie was running around most of the morning including getting us girls all lunch before setting off himself to start getting ready with the boys.

My Stepdad Nigel and good friend Noddy must have lost about a stone in weight the morning of the wedding.  They were rallying around doing lots of jobs behind the scenes in the baking sunshine. Never complaining and unfortunately no time to breath for them before the 5pm ceremony!

Thankfully whilst this was all going on Oliver was a super star and having a massive afternoon nap for Mummy! Nanny and Grandad had truly worn him out that morning when they took him off my hands.

I loved having all my friends around me whilst i was getting ready. It was wonderful to be surrounded by good friends and family when I was putting my wedding dress. So blessed to have shared it with them.

One of my best friends, Diane couldn’t be with me as she is heavily pregnant. Yes we’d had lots of tears together about her not being there but thanks to FaceTime i got a picture with her. Albeit with my hair in rollers and Diane on an iPad screen! Joined by Superwoman Kelly in the picture to make The Three Musketeers as we’ve always called ourselves. Diane does have to take credit as being the driving force behind Jamie & I getting together with her endearing mischievous ways.

A great team of people goes a long way

We had amazing people around us to ensure what we wanted happened. A great event planner – A.J. owner of TheLoft5. A super talented cake maker Cindy owner of Hometown Desserts.  I don’t even know where to start about our super talented photographer, Chelsea, owner of Finding Light Photography. I’ve taken the liberty of posting a couple of Chelsea’s pictures for you all to see. I’m beside myself to see the final full set of pictures. This girl is such an amazing photographer!

I loved the laid back approach in Florida and the stress it took out of a traditional wedding. Friends enjoyed not only the wedding but loved Anna Maria Island. Many have told us they want to go back which delights us. It’s a lot to ask of people to fly across the Atlantic so for them to love the location was fantastic. Good friends who run their own businesses left those to join us again a big ask. To name a few Leanne putting her pilates classes in Twickenham on hold; Cathy leaving her husband Pete to man the fort for Puddle Ducks South West London; Laura taking a break from Laura Beth Photography and Jack putting down the plumbing tools. A massive thanks guys.

The best thing i found about getting married abroad, other than the relaxed style was the extended celebrations. We had drinks with friends the night before and the day after a BBQ at our gorgeous place we called home for a week – Anna Maria Cottage. We were truly spoilt to be surrounded by everybody for a few days.

It’s easy to get caught up in the finer details with weddings. My main objective was to keep it about Jamie, Oliver & I and about our guests. We wanted people to enjoy themselves, eat, drink and be merry. Upon reflection we achieved that, and all the other things that you sweat over deciding on dissolve in the background. The reason for this is because to be surrounded by those that love you and are enjoying your day as much as you are is the most important thing. To be thanked by friends for making it such an enjoyable day truly makes me happy.

So who’s up for an Anna Maria reunion?! Let’s get planning!

When i’m not getting married…

I’m busy helping expectant parents achieve the best birth for them. I offer hypnobirthing classes in Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Keep in touch

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Sending you all positive vibes from my happy wedded place.

Mrs Ali Coleshill x

Hypnobirthing Mumma's Wedding

Hypnobirthing Mumma's Wedding

 

Do expectant Dad’s need to attend hypnobirthing classes?

Do Expectant Dad’s Need to Attend Hypnobirthing Classes?

When women enquire about hypnobirthing classes it is often the case that they’ve heard about the hypnobirthing option. Expectant Dad’s may have never heard of it and will often think that their pregnant parter is going to be hypnotised! A question regularly asked is ‘does my partner need to attend hypnobirthing classes?’. Dad’s may be reluctant to attend another ‘pregnancy’ course or a course that appears to be around hypnotism.

I would always encourage Dad’s to attend as well as Mum or of course your birthing partner if this isn’t Dad. Hypobirthing isn’t only beneficial to Mum to be in a relaxed, fearless mindset. It’s amazing for Dad’s as they feel they have a key role. Hypnobirthing teaches fathers about the workings of the female body when its birthing. They then understand how it can work so much more effectively if we work with it. Teaching them how fundamental their role is during the labour process. Working with Mum during those early stages of labour right through to the end.

Dad’s are filled with horror stories just like women are. Their thoughts around labour can be very negative. Its wonderful when I work with expectant parents and Dad’s feels so much more enlightened after the first session. During taster sessions that I host it’s refreshing at the end of the session when i then hear Dad’s talk about birth in a far more natural way. Understanding that as well as the medicinal pain relief there are other options to aid a more natural birth if Mum wants that. Water birth is a very typical one that Dad’s often feel is a great option.

How is hypnobirthing beneficial for Dad’s to be?

Hypnobirthing isn’t just about Mum the benefits are for all involved – Mum, Dad and baby. Some of the key elements for Dad’s are:

  • Understanding they play a key role and aren’t a spare part during labour as they don’t know what is going on
  • A natural instinct to protect and understanding that a man’s hormones adapt to this role during birth
  • They can be the protector of space and the voice for Mum during labour
  • Asking questions and being able to make informed decisions having the knowledge from hypnobirthing
  • Understanding how the vital hormone, Oxytocin can be encouraged to birth a baby
  • Keeping Mum calm and relaxed to encourage the Oxytocin hormone to work effectively
  • Able to use the massage and stroking techniques to keep Mum relaxed
  • Ensuring Mum is hydrated and keep her energy levels up
  • Learning about the golden hour and how important that hour is for them too

Many Dad’s instantly find a connection with hypnobirthing when I liken it to sports. If they play sports themselves they understand the training that takes place for example to run a marathon. How we train our bodies to perform, work with the necessary hormones and respond to our bodies needs really resonates with them. Understanding the mental ability of the mind and body connection that you need in sport. Hypnobirthing works on the same principles. Its about practice, training the body for the ‘marathon’ it will undertake when birthing a baby and trusting where the mind leads the body will follow. I’ve worked with many Dad’s who do or have participated in team sports and this comparison helps them to understand the principles of hypnobirthing. They often also become very engaged at this stage when they have a good understanding.

Looking to book a hypnobirthing course?

I offer hypnobirthing classes in Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

Alison Hypnobirthing page Do expectant Dad’s need to attend hypnobirthing classes?

 

What is hypnobirthing?

What is hypnobirthing?

Although hypnobirthing has become more widely known about in recent years ‘what is hypnobirthing‘ it is still a widely asked question.  People can be mislead by the hypno part and confuse it with being in a hypnotic state which it isn’t.  Hypnobirthing enables a woman to work with her body which is designed to give birth. It allows a woman to release any fear and negativity associated with birth. Many women have been programmed to believe birth is painful due to the negativity surrounding us from a young age. Negativity can come from birth stories, TV shows, films etc. Hypnobirthing replaces this with a calm confidence about birth.

Women who use hypnobirthing technique often go on to say what a wonderful experience birth was for them. They can’t wait to do it again. These are words been used by women who associated birth with being painful. I am one of these women!

How can Hypnobirthing Mumma help you?

I run workshops with Triona who runs YogaBellies Richmond to help women have the best birth for them. The workshop consists of a one hour relaxing pregnacy yoga session followed by a two hour hypnobirthing taster. The feedback we receive around these sessions is extremely positive. Often empowering women with the alternative options they do have around birth. It doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience and you can feel empowered to have the birth you want. It’s a great learning tool for Dad’s too who are often only aware of the birthing stories or options expectant Mum has told them.

The workshop allows people to ask all the questions around what is hypnobirthing? Which then allows them to feel more informed and as to whether they would then like to do the full hypnobirthing course.

When is the next workshop?

The next workshop is being held on Saturday 10 June from 10.00 – 14.00. We encourage Dad’s and birthing partners to join us too. Often Dads really enjoy both sessions especially if they’ve never experienced yoga or have no knowledge of hypnobirthing.

This workshop takes place at Hamptons International Richmond in a private room on the first floor. We provide refreshments, a light lunch and a goodie bag. The cost of the session is £75 per couple.

Hypnobirthing course discounts

As a thank you parents who go on to book a private hypnobirthing course having attended the workshop I give a 10% discount of the course price.

Ready to book a hypnobirthing course? I’d would love hear from you so please do get in touch.

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Ali x

FAQs footer image Hypnobirthing taster sessions richmond What is hypnobirthing

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