MY BIRTHING STORY

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I’ve always known about Hypnobirthing and the fact that there was a calm and gentle way to birth after I did my naturopathic degree. So naturally when I became pregnant, I was adamant that I wanted to do a course so that my husband and I could gain skills and allow me to have the birth we wanted.

Even though I felt I should have done more breathing exercises on my own I discovered on the day of labour that by attending the sessions and by listening to the recordings at all times, it helped me tremendously and it was enough. By ultimately and fundamentally understanding that birth is physiological and happens regardless, that it doesn’t need to be negative, and by having a positive approach to birth, it truly helped me to go with the flow and be confident. I was determined to have a natural birth at home with no medical intervention if possible, but realistic that what we want isn't always what we get, no matter how much faith we have in the process.

After seven hours of gradually more intense labour, I gave birth to a healthy 8lb 7oz boy in a pool in our living room - aided by my husband and two brilliant midwives. Even they were impressed by the control that hypnobirthing gave me in order to complete my completely natural birth. Hypnobirthing helped me stay calm, tuned in to my baby and be empowered. I was lucky enough to have no medical intervention, no gas and air, and was helped by breathing and the relaxing use of aromatherapy oils.

10 years on, I remember the birth of my little boy as the most amazing thing that I have ever done, and I am extremely proud of my commitment to these natural techniques, proof that it is not just possible, but can be extremely beneficial.