What Hypnobirthing Really Is (and Isn’t)
If you’ve ever Googled “what is hypnobirthing?” you’ve probably seen everything from whale music memes to people claiming it’s about being “hypnotised” into labour. Let’s clear that up right now: hypnobirthing is not about mind control, chanting, or walking around in a trance.
So, what is it?
Hypnobirthing is an antenatal education approach that teaches you how your incredible body is designed to give birth and how to work with it, not against it. Think: steady breathing, relaxation techniques, positive mindset shifts, and practical tools that help you feel calm, confident, and in control.
Here in Portsmouth, my hypnobirthing antenatal classes give you the full toolkit. You’ll learn:
Breathing techniques to calm your nervous system and stop the fear, tension, pain cycle in its tracks.
Relaxation tools that actually work, because no one needs extra stress when contractions kick in.
Visualisation and affirmations that help retrain your brain to trust your body.
How your partner can support you so they feel useful and confident too (instead of like a spare part in the corner).
Hypnobirthing explained, simply:
It’s science, not woo. It’s about your hormones, your nervous system, and your mindset, all working together to make birth feel less overwhelming and more empowering.
Who is hypnobirthing for?
Everyone. First baby, fourth baby, home birth, induction, planned caesarean, hypnobirthing isn’t about a “perfect” birth. It’s about feeling steady, informed, and ready for whatever your journey looks like.
The benefits of hypnobirthing:
Lower stress and anxiety during pregnancy.
Reduced fear and tension in labour.
Tools you’ll actually use in those 3am “oh no” moments.
A calmer, more confident birth partner.
Confidence that doesn’t end on birth day, it follows you into parenthood too.
So if you’re in Portsmouth, South Hampshire, or West Sussex and you’ve been curious about hypnobirthing antenatal classes, here’s your sign: it’s not about being hypnotised, it’s about being prepared.
Because when birth feels calmer, the whole journey feels lighter.
