Continuing with a series of blogs here at UK Birth Centre Ltd on preparation tips for your birth and beyond here we are discussing hypnotherapy.
Hypnosis is "a state of deep physical relaxation with an alert mind producing alpha waves, in which the subconscious mind can be more readily accessed" ( Mantle 2000 ) Hypnosis used for childbirth is almost always self-hypnosis: the hypnotherapist teaches the woman to induce the hypnotic state in herself during labour.
The Birth Ball for movement and pain relief in labour is a large inflated exercise ball that has been adopted into maternity care to aid relaxation and movement (Perez .P 2000). The woman can sit on or lean against the ball, which provides soft support.
Water birth enables women to give birth in the way their bodies were designed. I feel that birth pools have brought a special quality to the environment of birth, helping midwives get back to the roots of being with women.
The alternative approach to pain management includes a wide variety of techniques that address not only the physical sensations of pain, but also attempt to prevent you suffering by enhancing the emotional and spiritual aspects of your care. In this approach, pain is seen as normal but is separated from suffering and made acceptable.
You are unique, fantastic, a perfect human being; as are your baby, your pregnancy and your birth; they matter so much. I became an Independent midwife to ensure I could continue to support women through this amazing journey in the best way possible. Please take time to consider your choices in who attends you during this time. It is one of the most important times of your life.