The power of the mind during pregnancy and birth can shape your birth experience!
Childbirth Education can ultimately help shape your birth experience. There are many methods to consider, but it is important to understand the instructor and what they include in such classes. In my childbirth education regardless of what Method I am focusing on, I bring the tools of hypnobirthing such as father involvement as the birth companion, and relaxation tools along with the consumer information from ALACE and my experience. I have researched all the methods and found that there was not enough fitness for birth preparation, relaxation or consumer information – always something. I don’t leave anything out, because I see the significant difference in births I attend. On average, the couples who are more prepared (as much as you can possible prepare for such an unpredictable event) are the ones who have faster, easier births. Most of the hypnobirthers, because of the relaxation techniques and having an instructor with a strong background in Yoga and fitness along with homebirth and hospital experience, have there babies quickly and more gently. The nurses often comment on how it is hard for them to tell when a hypnomom is in transition because she is so calm. Relaxation is the key. For every thought there is a response in the body, so happy and calming thoughts are essential along with rest, strength and endurance, a supportive nurse and care provider and tricks of the trade which are taught in the classes and offered with doula services. Every birthing mother also needs to know her true options. This is very important when trying to have an intervention free birth. Fathers also need to learn relaxation and consumer information. Fathers are the eyes, ears and mouth for their partner during birth when a mother can’t always speak or be fully aware because she is focused. Take classes or speak to a doula to find out more about having a gentle birth in the hospital.
LONDON—Ina May Gaskin, of Summertown, Tennessee, was awarded the title “Honorary Doctor” by the Thames Valley University, London, England, on November 24, 2009. The award was presented by the faculty of the Health and Human Sciences division of the University in recognition of her work in demonstrating through midwifery and natural childbirth that women’s bodies still work as they were designed. Gaskin accepted the award in the Grand Auditorium of Wembley Stadium before an audience of 600.
