What is Hypnobirthing?

Hypnobirthing often comes with its fair share of misconceptions! Some people picture it as hypnosis straight out of a magic show—like you’ll be in a trance, snapping your fingers to make contractions disappear. Others think it’s only for those planning a home birth with fairy lights and essential oils or that it guarantees a completely pain-free labour (spoiler: it doesn’t).

Some might imagine it’s all about chanting and mystical vibes, or that it rejects medical interventions entirely. But here’s the real deal: hypnobirthing is none of those things!

It’s actually a super practical and down-to-earth approach to childbirth. Hypnobirthing uses relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and positive affirmations to help you stay calm and in control. It’s for anyone and works in any birth setting—whether you’re at home, in a hospital, or even planning for a caesarean. No chanting required, just tools to make your birth a little smoother, more confident, and dare we say—enjoyable!

So, what’s hypnobirthing, really? Let’s clear it up! Hypnobirthing is all about helping you feel calm, confident, and ready to rock your birth experience—no magic wands or hypnosis crystals involved.

It’s a practical method that teaches you how to relax (for real), breathe through contractions like a pro, and reframe any fears you might have about childbirth. Think of it as your toolkit for handling labour with confidence, whether you’re planning a water birth, a hospital birth, or even a scheduled caesarean.

The “hypno” part? That’s just about rewiring your mindset to stay positive and focused—it’s not about zoning out or becoming a human robot. Instead, you’ll learn how to stay present and work with your body, using techniques like visualisation and affirmations to keep things as chill as possible.

Bottom line? Hypnobirthing isn’t about having a “perfect” birth—it’s about feeling prepared, supported, and in control, no matter how your baby decides to make their grand entrance.

Why Choose Serene Birth with Mathilde

My hypnobirthing course is designed for all types of birth: vaginal birth, elective or unplanned caesarean, VBAC, scheduled induction, assisted or complicated birth.

If you are pregnant and planning to feel positive, empowered and keep calm and relax, this course is just what you are looking for.

This course is a complete antenatal programme which teaches you tools and techniques for a fully prepared and calmer birth.

What are the benefits of Hypnobirthing course by Serene Birth with Mathilde?

The length of labour is usually much shorter.

You are likely to have a more comfortable and often pain-free birth experience.

Your baby will enter a calm and relaxed environment, alert and ready to bond with you as nature intended.

Fewer drugs and medical interventions are used in Hypnobirthing, allowing your baby to develop naturally and easily after birth.

Mothers often recover more quickly after birth because the physical impact is reduced.

Your birth partner will learn how to support you actively and centrally, making it a truly shared and loving experience.

Course Packages

How much is the Course?

Private classes:

4 x 1,5-hour or 2 x 3-hour sessions (usually in the comfort of your own home) - £550

Group classes:

1 full day, for a minimum of 4 couples – from £350 per couple

(prices may vary according to the venue & date upon request)

Online Course (accessible from anywhere in the world!):

4 x 1,5-hour or 2 x 3-hour sessions - £450

What is included?

Open forum for Q&A, sharing experiences, fears or concerns about birth

Understand what hypnosis is

Learn about the mind-body connection in childbirth – the role of the subconscious

The stages of labour and how hypnobirthing can help – physiology of birth

Breathing techniques, relaxation, visualisation and self-hypnosis

Understanding the importance of a supportive birth environment

Comforting measures and pain management options

Intervention and Medical Concerns

Your baby’s 4th Trimester: his/her development and behaviour

Baby Care & Infant feeding

Your postpartum mind and body

Understanding the concept of Matrescence

Refresher classes: 2 x 1.5-hour or 1 x 3-hour sessions - £250

What is included?

Open forum for Q&A, sharing experiences, fears or concerns about birth

The stages of labour and how hypnobirthing can help – physiology of birth

Breathing techniques, relaxation, visualisation and self-hypnosis

Understanding the importance of a supportive birth environment

Comforting measures and pain management options

Antenatal classes: 2 x 1.5-hour or 1 x 3-hour sessions - £300

What is included?

Open forum for Q&A, sharing experiences, fears or concerns about birth

The stages of labour – physiology of birth

Breathing techniques, relaxation, visualisation

Understanding the importance of a supportive birth environment

Comforting measures and pain management options

Intervention and Medical Concerns

Your baby’s 4th Trimester: his/her development and behaviour

Baby Care & Infant feeding

Your postpartum mind and body

Understanding the concept of Matrescence

Extra take away:

Birth preferences template

List of items to pack for hospital, birth centre or home birth

Newborn essentials check list

Kicki Hansard’s Path to Birth and Birth Physiology graphics

Full telephone support up to the birth of your baby

Only for Hypnobirthing classes:

MP3 download to practice your hypnosis at home

Your Handouts

Affirmation cards

"Only with trust, faith, and support can the woman allow the birth experience to enlighten and empower her." Annie Kennedy and Penny Simkin