Frequently Asked Questions
Natal Hypnotherapy™
When should we attend a course?
You are advised to attend a course any time between 28-38 weeks.
How is this course different from others?
Most antenatal courses focus on "what is available" - the theory of giving birth, hospital procedures, the kind of pain relief available and what to do when things go wrong.
Other courses may talk about the importance of being relaxed, overcoming fears, importance of breathing, etc. However as they are all taught at a conscious level, the information does not always filter through to the all important store house, or subconscious and so does not actually help the couples address their own concerns. Quite often all the information can simply enhance or even create new fears rather than help you over come them.
The Natal Hypnotherapy™ course is focused more on how to have the birth experience that is right for you. The course covers all the key information you need regarding the physiology of birth, however it also focuses heavily on the emotions of birth. The course is tailored to each individual, allowing them to overcome their particular concerns and to prepare for the birth in the way that is appropriate to their circumstances.
In addition, as much of the course is done using hypnosis, the key elements are absorbed by the subconscious level and so bypass the critical, analytical conscious part of the mind.
Is this a HypnoBirthing® course?
No, Natal Hypnotherapy™ is not part of the US HypnoBirthing® group. Natal Hypnotherapy™ has been developed in the UK by its founder, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Maggie Howell. The techniques have been developed organically through her own experiences of using them for four births, through her work as a hypnotherapist and Doula and her work with leading birth specialists including Michael Odent, Ina May Gaskin and Sheila Kitzinger.
Both HypnoBirthing® and Natal Hypnotherapy™ use professional hypnosis techniques to help couples prepare for the birth. Both teach how relaxation, hypnosis and overcoming fear can drastically reduce the level of pain and help the couple feel and be more confident and in control.
Private Labour and Birth Preparation Course
When should we attend a course?
You are advised to attend a class any time between 28-38 weeks.
How is the course taught?
We will always use 'evidence-based' knowledge when we teach and will provide information, practical skills and resources to help parents make informed choices for themselves and their baby.
We are not able to provide any medical advice and parents attending a class are encouraged to take any questions about their medical care, or that of their baby, to their midwife or doctor.
Courses are facilitated through a variety of teaching formats including discussion, teacher presentation and active sessions.
Will I need to provide anything?
Everything needed for the course will be provided. We recommend you wear comfortable casual clothes for the day as we encourage you to practice supportive positions for labour.
What is the course schedule?
The dates and timings of the course is always at a mutually convenient time. To ensure energy levels remain high, we will stop for refreshments regularly.
What role does the birth Partner have?
Dads-to-be are encouraged to become aware of the vital role they can play throughout the pregnancy, during labour and birth and in the early days and weeks after your baby's arrival.
Is there any support beyond the course?
During the day, we will cover a lot of information which may mean that after the course you may still have questions or decisions to make. We will ensure that you are given the support to enable you to make these very important informed decisions about your labour and birth. You are welcome to make contact with us via telephone or email, using the information detailed on our Contact page.
Yoga for Pregnancy Class
What should I bring to the class?
Please bring an exercise/yoga mat, pillow and blanket with you. A limited number of mats are available for use in class should you forget your mat but we cannot guarantee there will be enough for everyone. Don't forget to bring a bottle of water to sip during the class.
What should I wear to the class?
Wear loose fitting, easy-to-move-and-stretch in clothes, preferably cotton or cotton mix. Also something warm for relaxation time, for example socks and a fleece. I recommend you wear "layers"! Remove footwear prior to starting the class.
Should I eat before coming to the class?
Avoid a heavy meal prior to the start of the class and try and eat only something light, for example, raw vegetables or fruit.
When should I arrive at the class?
Arrive in good time for your class, but no more than 15 minutes before the start. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your class we may be unable to let you in.
Is there anything you need to know about me?
When booking a course you are required to fill out a health/medical information questionnaire. It is always wise to consult your doctor prior to beginning any form of exercise programme.
When can I start attending the class?
Generally speaking it is safe to start from as early as 6/8 weeks however, I recommend that ladies start after their first consultation and/or scan (as appropriate) at about 13/16 weeks. Please refer to your doctor or midwife first before embarking on your course if you have any queries about your particular circumstances.
When should I stop attending the class?
This will depend entirely on your fitness level and the baby's health. It is not unusual for ladies to attend right up to their due date!
Does it matter that I haven't done a course like this before?
The short answer is 'no'. Although this course follows many basic Yoga poses, it is different to 'normal' Hatha Yoga practice (the physical exercises of Yoga) in that all the postures have been altered so that they do not place any strain on the lower abdomen. The main emphasis during the class is developing the skill to breathe and relax effectively.