Hypnobirthing and pain relief There can sometimes be confusion about when hypnobirthing can/should be used or if getting an epidural, for example, means it will no longer be an effective technique. A lot of people who choose to practice hypnobirthing often try to avoid other forms of pain relief. Of course, as much as we want, that might not always be the way your birth plays out - but that’s ok. Let me tell you why. Hypnobirthing is about so much more than getting in the ‘zone’. First of all, my hypnobirthing classes are also focused around providing you you with evidence based information for birth. So you already go into birth more prepared and informed. Having that information is key to being involved during the birthing process, rather than a passive participant, and often means the experience was much more positive. Hypnobirthing is also great for not letting you get to the stage where labour is overwhelming. So while you may still opt for more pain relief as your personal choice - hypnobirthing can help you remain in control. Also, depending on the pain relief you want, e.g. epidural, you would need to be in established labour (at least 4cm) before most units or trusts will admit you to the labour ward to be able to get it. Hypnobirthing is the perfect tool to fill that time. After you get pain relief the hypnobirthing tracks are still so important. The positive reinforcement is powerful and plays a big part in calming your mind. We have a hard time getting our brains to understand thoughts are not facts and worrying can induce a stress response which shuts down the good labour hormones that we still need to work. So don’t turn off your hypnobirthing just because your pain relief kicks in - it’s almost even more important then when we don’t have the sensations from your contractions/surges keeping your mind busy. Let me know if you have any questions⬇️ 📸: @holisticdoulawendy #todandb #pregnant #pregnancy #due2021 #labour #labor #mumsofinsta #labourphotography #epidural #laboranddelivery #birthphoto #hypnobirthing #hypnobirth #hypnobirthingclass #antenatleducation #antenatal #prenatal #prenataleducation #midwife #todeliveryandbeyond (at Ireland (country)) https://www.instagram.com/p/CLz4UOkHoiB/?igshid=1sstyphxhzrp4