Childbirth is a profound and transformative experience. However, the pain and anxiety can often be excruciating. Many women have turned to hypnosis as a method to help control and dull the pains of labor. You can too, with the help of Intermountain Health’s Hypnosis for Birth class offered by Intermountain Health Layton Hospital and taught by RN and certified childbirth educator Erin Packer.

What is Hypnosis for Birth?

Hypnosis for birth involves a series of deep breathing and relaxation techniques that release endorphins, helping you feel better and giving you the energy needed to labor successfully. Participants are taught to visualize pleasant things such as massage, music, aromatherapy, or a happy, peaceful place during labor and delivery. These pleasurable messages reach the brain faster than pain. The goal is to help expectant mothers manage their pain and anxiety by altering their perception of the birthing process.

“Hypnosis for Birth is not really a new idea. The principles were first formulated by Grantly Dick-Read in his 1942 book titled Childbirth Without Fear. He theorized that a fear and tension pain cycle can make labor more difficult,” said Packer.

Intermountain nurses have noted that moms who attend childbirth education classes feel more prepared, educated, relaxed, and at ease. They know how to advocate for themselves and their babies better, setting them up for long-term success.

Benefits of Hypnosis for Birth

Packer mentioned that there’s over 30 years of evidence that hypnosis can help ease the birthing process. Many individuals and studies have reported:

• Higher Satisfaction with Birth Experience: Women who use hypnosis during birth experience significantly less pain due to deep relaxation techniques. They are more comfortable and in control, often experiencing less pain than the average laboring mother.
• Lower Intervention Rate, Higher Medication-Free Birth Rate: A calm, relaxed state helps labor progress naturally, minimizing complications. This leads to fewer epidurals, pain medications, and cesarean sections.
• Shorter Labor: Studies have shown that women who use hypnosis-based birthing techniques often have shorter labors. The relaxation techniques help the body work more efficiently, effectively shortening delivery.
• Improved Postpartum Recovery: A sense of control and calm surrounding a positive focus on the birth experience helps the psychological and physical well-being of the mother. This leads to a decreased risk of postpartum depression or anxiety and a smoother overall recovery.

What to Expect in Your Hypnosis for Birth Class

If you want to take the hypnosis for birth class, you will participate in a weekly class for five weeks, each lasting two and a half hours. This class is taught online or in person at Intermountain Health Layton Hospital and costs $95 per person. Significant others or labor partners are encouraged to attend as well. In addition to self-hypnosis, breathing techniques, and methods for coping and comfort, you’ll also receive traditional birth preparation education and be guided through labor scenarios to prepare for your upcoming birth.

You are encouraged to practice your hypnosis both in class and at home prior to labor. The most important step is learning how to talk and bond with your baby in-utero, letting the visualization of memories guide you through your hypnosis.

“Hypnosis for birth teaches moms to bond with their infant in-utero and talk to them. Moms create a vision board of happy memories from the past or future and visualize those memories, talking to their baby about them. It teaches moms and partners to use affirmations or make positive statements about themselves or their baby. Partners are key to moms being successful. It shortens labor, and labor feels easier,” said Packer.

This course’s information should not replace any advice your healthcare provider gives you about your pregnancy or upcoming birth. Looking to join the next session of Hypnosis for Birth? Start here.