4. HypnoBirthing – The Mongan Method
HypnoBirthing founder and creator Marie Mongan says of her method for childbirth, “We believe that every woman has within her the power to call upon her natural instincts to bring about the best possible birthing for her baby and herself.” Additionally, HypnoBirthing is designed to teach you that “in the absence of fear and tension, or special medical circumstances, severe pain does not have to be an accompaniment of labor.” HypnoBirthing does not put laboring women in a trance; instead it enables them to daydream and focus via relaxation to achieve a calm and serene birth that is free from fear and full of trust in their body. Contractions are referred to as “surges” that are meant to be overcome in a peaceful, tranquil mental state. Marie Mongan’s book HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method is available here.
*Personally, I listened to HypnoBirthing CD’s during the last several months of my pregnancy, and while they provided me with immense relaxation, often sending me off into a deep sleep or nap, I can honestly say that this type of serene birthing experience via concentration and daydreaming would have never worked for me given the intense pain I felt during labor. However, like I said, all women are different and it may be the answer for some!
+ HypnoBirthing – The Mongan Method
Register for the childbirth class of your choice during your sixth month of pregnancy so you’ll have plenty of time to complete the course and supplement the class with any additional education you desire.
I always thought childbirth educaiton classes sounded ‘old school’ , but after reading Beth’s post I’m ready to sign up down the road when I’m pregnant.
I signed up for a fast-speed childbirth prep class, but nothing could possibly have prepared me for a real-life infant. In fact, watching the videos of women giving birth terrified me. I actually turned to my husband and said “Can I change my mind?”
I did Bradley Method classes and LOVED them. I would highly recommend them to every expecting couple. You will come away from the course being an expert in the process of labor!
Even if you don’t care about having a natural birth or want that epidural, this course is really useful just to understand everything to expect during the course of labor.