Hypnotic-Birthing, hypnotherapy and hypnosis are all the same thing. It
becomes
confusing when we throw around all these different uses of the same basic procedure.
All of us have experienced hypnosis. Several times a day we enter a
self-induced trance state. This is a part of the natural activity- relaxation
rhythm of the body known as the ultradian rhythm. We conventionally
experience this as "spacing out." It is also the state in which relaxation and
openness to learning is most likely to occur. Hypnotic-Birthing is the focused use of
the trance state in order to manage birth pain.
We've learned that the unconscious cannot be commanded into a
state of well-being. The old authoritative hypnotist approach, "When
you look at that ashtray, you will stop smoking," has been replaced by
a more sophisticated and successful method pioneered by Milton Erickson,
M.D. Erickson reasoned that each individual has all the resources
necessary for controlling pain already residing within. The hypnotherapist helps the
client awaken these potentials. He/She conveys options to the client
which were formerly present but unperceived.
In order to do this, the hypnotherapist uses a variety of techniques.
The therapist may dialogue with the unconscious, tell anecdotes and metaphors,
stimulate memory recall, help the client recall, reinterpret, or or even
assist in altering the birth experience.
There exists a diversity of uses for hypnosis with individuals.
Although hypnosis is commonly associated with habit cessation
(losing weight, quitting smoking, etc.), almost any area which responds to
conventional therapies can be treated with hypnosis. The well- trained
clinician using hypnotherapy can help clients suffering from depression,
anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, insomnia, substance abuse, phobias,
memory loss, panic attacks, chronic pain and more. Even forms of schizophrenia and
multiple personality have been helped through hypnosis. The medical
applications range from pain control and anesthesia to the more generalized
use in labor and delivery.
Each client may experience hypnosis differently relative to the
technique being used and the psychology of the client. For some, it is a heightened awareness; for
most a profound relaxation. Sometimes the
client hears every word the hypnotist says, and other times the voice fades
in and out or becomes completely inaudible. In Ericksonian work, the client
is never put under the "control" of the hypnotist. The client is
always free to alter the hypnotic experience or awaken at will. Therefore, hypnosis is not an artificial condition imposed upon a
"subject," but rather a skill to be learned by the client to
apply as you see fit. It's not mind control; all clients must
work cooperatively with the hypnotherapist. When used by a competent
and well-trained professional, it is an effective and creative way in which to
make the birth experience a beautiful process.
