I gave birth to my first son naturally, but there were various complications and I didn’t feel I had much control over anything. I am sure worry and external stresses were a factor.
For our second baby, I was keen to go for a natural birth again, but to try and keep my busy brain and anxiety at bay. A friend suggested Hypnobirthing, so we decided to give it a go.
Brighter Birthing was brilliant, from start to finish. Leanne shared her knowledge and experience in a really clear and logical way, without making any judgements. Her explanations and advice, along with practical exercises to demonstrate how the techniques work made total sense. My husband and I were able to practice them in the following weeks with ease. It was also great to learn more of the science behind everything and the real meaning of Hypnobirthing, rather than the misconceptions I had before.
I realise you can never predict what will happen where babies and childbirth are concerned, but I was so pleased that we had Leanne’s help this time, as I felt calmer and more confident about what was in store.
Having strategies to deal with situations with some control felt very reassuring and empowering.
My waters broke at 9:30pm and my surges started shortly afterwards. I used the Hypnobirthing techniques Leanne had taught me, and the breathing in particular was a huge help – I don’t think I could have survived the long car journey to hospital without them!
I used the Hypnobirthing techniques Leanne had taught me, and the breathing in particular was a huge help – I don’t think I could have survived the long car journey to hospital without them!
We set off early, due to the hospital being such a drive away. Breathing out through the pain and focussing on positive thoughts like “I’m getting closer to meeting my baby” kept me relatively in control and relaxed.
We arrived at hospital at 1am and the midwives assessed I was 1cm dilated. They gave me a sweep and told me to go for a walk. Only a few minutes later, I collapsed in the corridor due to the intensity of my surges and just 15 minutes after that I was back with the midwives in a lovely room with a birth pool (no time to fill it though!) and pushing.
Baby Zac arrived at 2:46am, healthy and well and we were able to go home later the same day.
The final stage of labour was intense, quick and painful. I really don’t think I could have done it, especially with no pain relief, without the Brighter Birthing lessons, so I am extremely grateful. Leanne gave me the confidence and the tools to get through it without my worries and negative thoughts causing me to tense up.