This Birth Story comes from a first time mum who completed the 6 week Pregnancy Relaxation & Mindset Preparation course in Autumn 2019, it is a good example of how a birth experience can be positive in spite of pregnancy complications.
“My baby was due to be born 18/11/19. My pregnancy was really good with only a slight bit of nausea at the start and a few aches and pains towards the end. I did go into hospital a couple of times for reduced movements but looking back I think I was just being extra cautious at any slight change as it was my first pregnancy and I wasn't really sure what to expect.
I was planning for a home water birth which I never would have wanted originally but the relaxation course I went on really gave me the confidence to go for it. The pool was delivered, and my partner set it up ready for the big day. However, the week before my due date I started with horrendous itchy skin all over my body. Blood tests revealed it was obstetric cholestasis. I was told I would need to be induced as the baby was at risk and therefore I would have to give birth in a hospital.
Not the birth I wanted but my main concern was making sure the baby was okay. The relaxation course really gave me the confidence I needed when I was in hospital. I felt in control and asked questions when I was unsure, told midwives and doctors exactly what I wanted and said no to medical interventions they suggested. I would have never have had the confidence to question anything before the course and I'm so glad I did.
I was sent to the labour ward to be induced on Sunday 17th of November at 6.30am after waiting 40 hours for a bed to become available. The midwives were amazing, they kept the doctors away and let me set up the room to help me relax. At 18.04 on the 17th I gave birth to a beautiful, healthy 9lbs 3oz baby girl.
I wouldn't change anything about my birth experience, even though I didn't have much choice due to the medical indications, I'm glad I at least questioned everything. I would recommend hypnobirthing to all women. I am so glad I did it.”
More often than not when complications arise, it is even more important to be able to stay calm, ask questions and make informed choices. The empowerment that brings can make all the difference to how we feel about our birth experience afterwards.
Hypnobirthing is for all births, and is useful in all situations. Take look at our courses here.
