What is Hypnobirthing and Does It Work?
Jul 23, 2025If you’re pregnant and exploring birth prep options, you might have come across Hypnobirthing. If you’re anything like me, you probably thought it sounds a bit "woo-woo"… But what exactly is Hypnobirthing? And (most importantly) does it really work?
Let’s break it down...
What is Hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing is a complete birth preparation programme that combines:
- Evidence-based knowledge about labour and birth
- Deep breathing and relaxation techniques
- Mindset tools to help reduce fear and anxiety
- Practical strategies for you and your birth partner
The goal is to help you feel calm, confident and in control, no matter what kind of birth you’re planning. It’s not about having a “perfect” birth… it’s about feeling empowered before, during and after your baby’s birth.
Even when birth doesn’t go to plan, that sense of empowerment and confidence makes all the difference on the day.
Does Hypnobirthing Actually Work?
In short: yes, it can make a huge difference.
While birth is unpredictable, research and personal stories show that Hypnobirthing can:
- Reduce fear and tension
- Shorten the length of labour
- Lower the chance of medical interventions
- Improve overall birth satisfaction
Most importantly, it helps you feel prepared, informed and positive heading into labour, allowing you to start motherhood from a confident and positive place (rather than fear and trauma).
Who is Hypnobirthing For?
Everyone! Whether you're planning a hospital birth, birth centre birth, home birth, or a caesarean, Hypnobirthing gives you tools that work in every setting.
First-time mums, second-time parents, and their partners rave about how transformative hypnobirthing is. It is so effective that the NHS is investing in Hypnobirthing. Many hospitals (such as Darent Valley Hospital) now have teams of midwives who are fully trained in hypnobirthing.
This is great news for mums who have attended a hypnobirthing course during their pregnancy, as it means you will often have great support from your midwives on the day.
Ready to Try It?
If you’re pregnant, based in London or Kent, and due in late 2025 or early 2026, now’s a great time to start.
My next in-person group course in Abbey Wood starts 20th September, and my next one in Bexley starts 16th October. The classes are small, friendly, and packed with powerful tools to help you have a positive birth experience.
Check out my Group Hypnobirthing Courses here
If you live further afield then I also offer 1:1 Private Birth Prep Coaching and a fully self-based video-based online course.
