In respect of birthing we use hypnosis in two different ways:

Firstly, to help women change any fearful, negative expectations of birth they might have to positive ones. When we move into trance, the conscious, analytical side of the brain becomes side-tracked and we’re much more open to suggestions, which is what happens in stage hypnosis. Only suggestions we’re open to accepting are useful though and for birth, of course, our focus is on building confidence that, without any special circumstances, the experience of birthing can be a positive one in which a woman remains, calm, relaxed and in control.

Which brings us to the second point. Through hypnosis, women learn simple yet powerful techniques that ensure they’re able to remain emotionally and physically relaxed during pregnancy, labour and birth so their body can work at its best. This, in turn, makes it possible for them to remain calm and in control throughout their labour, no matter what path their birthing takes.

Everything I teach on The Wise Hippo Sussex Hypnobirthing Programme is based on physiological and medical fact and reinforces how the mind already works. In fact, there isn’t anything new to learn, the programme uses what the mind does naturally and looks at it from a different perspective. You’ll be able to use your mind in the best way possible to support a more comfortable and positive birth experience.

Joanna uses her skills as a clinical hypnotherapist to support and guide you.