hypnobirthing, relaxation, nhs antenatal classes, hospital tour (Preparing for Birth)

Member Name: ariom

Product:	Preparing for Birth
Date:	13/10/08 (35 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: helped me relax and get the birth I wanted.

Disadvantages: none

I was very keen to have a relaxed pool homebirth. I didn't get in the pool but did manage to have a relaxed homebirth and I feel that the preparation I did was a larger factor in contributing towards this.

Firstly, I purchased and read the hypnobirthing book (Mongan method). I think it's important to read and understand the philosophy behind the concept, and not just listen to some cds. I practised the relaxation methods in the book, listened to the relaxation methods on the cds daily. I found that I often fell asleep doing this, and that is what happened during labour as well. I often slept through contractions and for a long time slept between them. I visualised my labour and myself being in control and practised positions in the pool (unfilled). This gave me confidence and self belief in the birth I would have.

I also did optimal fetal positioning. This is to help the baby get into a back to front position which is to known to provide a more comfortable labour. The principle is that you should remain upright, forward and with open legs as much as possible. I was borderline obsessive with this and from my 20 week scan I don't think I reclined once, was only not upright for sleep and only ever was on my back when it wasn't in my control. My baby was in the right position from 28 weeks and I feel that this contributed to it.

However, I also didn't want to be in an ignorant position. I knew that there are factors which are outside anyone's control in labour and birth so I wanted to be prepared for the worst outcome as well. I went on a tour of my local hospital suite and asked questions about induction, assisted delivery and c-section. I wanted to feel informed and in control if the worst did happen. It didn't so I don't know how well my preparation would work.

I furthermore went to my local NHS Antenatal classes. A lot of what they said was common sense and it was taught in a very simplistic manner. However, it was very useful for knowing how things happen in my area - when do they expect you to call them, what you can request at different times etc. They also answered many of my questions about if things didn't go to plan.

Summary: hypnobirthing, relaxation, nhs antenatal classes, hospital tour