What Is HypnoBirthing?
By Denise Curtis, CLD, CPD, HBCE
If you’ve been looking into ways to prepare for birth that don’t revolve around fear or worst-case scenarios, you might’ve come across something called HypnoBirthing®. And no—it’s not about being hypnotized with a swinging watch!
HypnoBirthing, specifically The Mongan Method, is a childbirth class that teaches you how to stay calm, confident, and in control during labor. It’s all about working with your body rather than fighting against it. Through a mix of breathing, relaxation, and self-hypnosis techniques, you’ll learn how to create a more comfortable birth experience—whatever that might look like for you.
It’s Not Just for “Natural” Births
A lot of people think HypnoBirthing is only for home births or parents who don’t want any pain medication—but that’s not true at all. The tools you learn can help any kind of birth feel more grounded and positive. Whether you’re planning to get an epidural, having an induction, or even preparing for a cesarean, HypnoBirthing can help you feel more at ease and more in charge of your experience.
This class doesn’t tell you how your birth should go. It gives you the mindset and skills to feel more in control, no matter what happens. And that can make a huge difference in how you feel during and after birth.
What’s Hypnosis Got to Do With It?
Let’s clear this up: Hypnosis isn’t about zoning out or giving up control. It’s actually the opposite—it's a relaxed, focused state of mind where your body feels safe and calm. And when your body feels safe, it releases endorphins (those natural feel-good hormones) that can make labor more comfortable and even shorter.
When you're stressed or scared, your body tenses up, which can make labor more painful and harder. But when you feel calm and confident, your body can do what it was made to do. That’s what HypnoBirthing helps you tap into.
So… What Do We Actually Do in Class?
Great question. HypnoBirthing is a five-class series, with each session lasting around 2.5 hours. Each class builds on the last, giving you time to really absorb and practice the techniques. Here’s a little glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Breathing techniques for each stage of labor, including one that helps lessen your chances of tearing by avoiding forced, coached pushing.
Deep relaxation and visualization exercises that help reduce fear, calm your nervous system, and connect with your baby.
How your body works during labor (you’ll leave feeling more in awe of it than ever before).
Partner support tools to give your birth companion the confidence they need so they know exactly how to help you feel safe, grounded, and strong.
How to advocate for your birth preferences in a gentle but firm way so you feel heard and supported, even in a medical setting.
Birth planning guidance, including questions to ask your provider and tips for creating a supportive environment—whether you’re birthing at home, in a hospital, or in a birth center.
Each class includes hands-on practice, engaging videos, real talk, and time to connect with others who are also preparing to welcome their baby.
Come Join My Next Class!
I’ve supported hundreds of families through pregnancy, birth, and the early postpartum days, and HypnoBirthing is one of my favorite things to teach. I’ve seen how powerful it can be when families go into birth feeling informed, calm, and supported.
My upcoming HypnoBirthing® Class Series is a 5-week course for expecting parents who want to feel more confident and connected as they prepare to meet their baby. We’ll cover everything from how your body works in labor, to how your partner can support you, to practicing those game-changing breathing and relaxation techniques.
Join me in my next class series. (STARTING SOON! Don’t miss out!) It’s a welcoming, small-group experience where we keep things real, supportive, and yes—even fun! You’ll walk away feeling more connected to your body, more prepared for your baby’s arrival, and surrounded by a community that’s cheering you on.
Come learn, laugh, and get ready for birth in a safe space that’s all about helping you feel empowered. You can check out all the details and sign up on my website below. I’d love to have you in class!
