Welcome to my last blog before the festive season is upon us. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful christmas whatever your plans. My tree is up and decorated now and I am really looking forward to spending christmas with my family. My grandson is nearly four and it is so much more exciting when children are a part of the celebrations.
On a more serious note the topic I am highlighting on my blog this week is the move to offer women a caesarean section without a medical reason. This is an area of concern to those of us that are passionate about giving women the tools and confidence to give birth easily and gently.
My belief is that as more medical intervention occurs in childbirth it leads to a cascade of labour complications and traumatic birth experiences. This has led to a most understandable increase in the amount of fear and aversion felt by women and prevent them even considering giving birth vaginally. If more money was spent on offering women counselling, fear release and relaxation techniques for those women, who quite understandably felt afraid to undertake childbirth then not only would women experience the joy of giving birth, but also have less complications recovering from major surgery.
A controversial move by NICE to introduce guidelines for caesarean section to be available as a choice for women has stirred up emotions both for and against the move. I am a great believer in giving women informed choice, but one of my concerns is that women are fully informed about the pros and cons of a caesarean section. What worries me even more is that we have such a negative view of childbirth that we are too scared to give birth naturally!
Don’t get me wrong, a caesarean section is a life saving operation in specific circumstances and should be used in those situations. The problem is when it becomes normal practice and we forget that it is major surgery with a higher risk of complications for both mother and baby.
The philosophy of HypnoBirthing allows parents to release fear and tension, which activates our flight and fight response leading to more pain and a disruption in the natural flow and rhythm of labour and birth. Research has shown that women who have practiced self-hypnosis, visualisations and breathing techniques have shorter labours with less chemical analgesia needed for comfort. Therefore, lets encourage NICE to recommend that Hypnobirthing is available within the NHS as a choice for women who are afraid, or would like to have a gentle, calm birthing.
In recent research carried out at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital by scanning the livers of newborn babies for levels of fat, findings revealed that babies born by caesarean had higher levels of fat in their livers than those born naturally. In the former, the weight of the mother had an impact on the amount of fat in the baby’s livers. However, the mothers weight did not have an impact on those babies who were born naturally or those who were born by emergency caesarean section after the women had laboured.
This study highlights the need for more research into the effects of having a caesarean on both mother and baby, and the need for caution for those women who are tempted to opt for what they perceive as an easier less frightening option for giving birth. I urge you to explore all the options for natural antenatal preparation and get professional help if you feel terrified of giving birth vaginally, because there are natural solutions av
Professional advice and courses for prospective parents wishing to pursue natural and pain free options for pregnancy and childbirth with Hypnobirthing, hypnotherapy and antenatal education.
Tuesday, 13 December 2011
Thursday, 24 November 2011
What are the benefits of using aromatherapy in pregnancy?
Welcome back to my blog this week. As the weeks roll by so quickly and christmas looms ever closer, our stress levels rise at the prospect of choosing presents for loved ones. I would like to take a moment to suggest that not all gifts need involve a great deal of money and just giving/receiving a simple aromatherapy massage by your partner may relieve those aching muscles and swollen ankles.
This weeks article looks at the benefits and some cautions about using aromatherapy during pregnancy and birth.
Aromatherapy has its roots in the most ancient healing practices of mankind using essential oils for their therapeutic properties on mind, body and emotion. Essential oils are distilled capturing the “vital’ force and healing properties of the organic plant material. As far back as 3000bc, the Egyptians were using essential oils for every day use and for embalming their deceased.
Pregnant women are aware that pregnancy and childbirth is a natural process and want to steer away from the use of drugs and medical intervention whenever possible. Aromatherapy can be used very successfully in a number of ways, alleviating minor disorders of pregnancy, easing stress, pain and discomfort and preparing your body for the ultimate experience of labour and birth.
Blending for pregnancy:
• Half strength blends are recommended during pregnancy, therefore 2 drops of essential oils in 10 mls of a carrier oil = 1%
• The molecules of essential oils are small and may cross the placental barrier
• A woman’s sense of smell is heightened during pregnancy therefore, less is best
Methods of application
There are many ways of applying aromatherapy and one of the most popular must be massage. Not only is the skin a fantastic medium for absorbing oils, the actual touch of massage is beneficial physically and mentally by inducing deep relaxation. Bathing is another popular method.
• Massage – 2 drops of essential oils in 10mls of a carrier oil, such as organic sunflower oil
• Baths – maximum of 3 drops dispersed in full fat milk or a carrier oil
• Vaporisers – use a few drops in a burner but don’t leave it burning for more than 15-20 minutes
Guidelines for use of essential oils
• Don’t use during the first trimester of pregnancy
• Don’t use essential oils neat on the skin
• Don’t take essential oils orally
• Keep essential oils in a safe, cool, dark place
• Use a dropper to measure out oils accurately
Safe oils to use during pregnancy include:
• Bergamot
• Citrus oils such as mandarin and grapefruit
• German chamomile
• Lavender after the first trimester
• Neroli
• petitgrain
• Rosewood
• Sandalwood
• Sweet orange
• Tea tree
• Ylang ylang
Some oils, not suitable for use during pregnancy due to their tonic action on the uterus, may then be used at term, to relieve discomfort and assist with contractions during labour. These include:
• Clary sage
• Jasmine
• palmarosa
• Rose
There are many oils, which are not safe to use during pregnancy due to their interaction with other medication or for their toxic effects. Therefore, it is always advisable to refer to an aromatherapist before experimenting yourself.
Conclusion
Aromatherapy has a beneficial part to play during pregnancy and childbirth if used safely. However, like any other drug essential oils have a great potency therefore, caution is advisable in their use. If you have a medical condition or you are unsure about using essential oils it is advisable to check with your midwife or visit a qualified aromatherapist for advice.
If you would like any more information or advice please feel free to contact me on amanda@mama2b.com or to purchase some aromatherapy blends visit my shop at www.mama2bshop.co.uk
This weeks article looks at the benefits and some cautions about using aromatherapy during pregnancy and birth.
Aromatherapy has its roots in the most ancient healing practices of mankind using essential oils for their therapeutic properties on mind, body and emotion. Essential oils are distilled capturing the “vital’ force and healing properties of the organic plant material. As far back as 3000bc, the Egyptians were using essential oils for every day use and for embalming their deceased.
Pregnant women are aware that pregnancy and childbirth is a natural process and want to steer away from the use of drugs and medical intervention whenever possible. Aromatherapy can be used very successfully in a number of ways, alleviating minor disorders of pregnancy, easing stress, pain and discomfort and preparing your body for the ultimate experience of labour and birth.
Blending for pregnancy:
• Half strength blends are recommended during pregnancy, therefore 2 drops of essential oils in 10 mls of a carrier oil = 1%
• The molecules of essential oils are small and may cross the placental barrier
• A woman’s sense of smell is heightened during pregnancy therefore, less is best
Methods of application
There are many ways of applying aromatherapy and one of the most popular must be massage. Not only is the skin a fantastic medium for absorbing oils, the actual touch of massage is beneficial physically and mentally by inducing deep relaxation. Bathing is another popular method.
• Massage – 2 drops of essential oils in 10mls of a carrier oil, such as organic sunflower oil
• Baths – maximum of 3 drops dispersed in full fat milk or a carrier oil
• Vaporisers – use a few drops in a burner but don’t leave it burning for more than 15-20 minutes
Guidelines for use of essential oils
• Don’t use during the first trimester of pregnancy
• Don’t use essential oils neat on the skin
• Don’t take essential oils orally
• Keep essential oils in a safe, cool, dark place
• Use a dropper to measure out oils accurately
Safe oils to use during pregnancy include:
• Bergamot
• Citrus oils such as mandarin and grapefruit
• German chamomile
• Lavender after the first trimester
• Neroli
• petitgrain
• Rosewood
• Sandalwood
• Sweet orange
• Tea tree
• Ylang ylang
Some oils, not suitable for use during pregnancy due to their tonic action on the uterus, may then be used at term, to relieve discomfort and assist with contractions during labour. These include:
• Clary sage
• Jasmine
• palmarosa
• Rose
There are many oils, which are not safe to use during pregnancy due to their interaction with other medication or for their toxic effects. Therefore, it is always advisable to refer to an aromatherapist before experimenting yourself.
Conclusion
Aromatherapy has a beneficial part to play during pregnancy and childbirth if used safely. However, like any other drug essential oils have a great potency therefore, caution is advisable in their use. If you have a medical condition or you are unsure about using essential oils it is advisable to check with your midwife or visit a qualified aromatherapist for advice.
If you would like any more information or advice please feel free to contact me on amanda@mama2b.com or to purchase some aromatherapy blends visit my shop at www.mama2bshop.co.uk
Friday, 11 November 2011
How massage can help you during pregnancy
Welcome back to my blog on this very special date of 11/11/11. I thought I would share my latest article on the benefits of having a massage during pregnancy for those of you ladies feeling the strain of pregnancy on muscles, joints and ligaments.
Your feedback and experience of massage would be much appreciated so do get in touch with your own experience of having pregnancy massage. I will send my latest Hypnosis CD for pregnancy, birth and beyond to the most interesting account.
Massage techniques have been performed over the centuries to improve overall health and wellbeing by reducing muscle tension and stress. The English word massage is probably derived from the Arabic Mass’h meaning to press softly, which makes this is an ideal therapy to help reduce and relieve those annoying symptoms of pregnancy. Studies point to both maternal and newborn benefits when regular massage is part of your antenatal care.
Potential benefits include:
• Relief from muscle aches and joint pain
• Reduction of swelling in legs, feet and hands
• May relieve sciatic pain by helping to reduce inflammation of nerves and ensuing muscle tension
• Regulates hormones by reducing the ‘stress’ hormones and increasing our ‘feel good’ hormones such as Dopamine and Serotonin
• Increasing our feel good hormones reduces the incidence of depression
• Improved hormone balance also leads to fewer complications in labour, birth and in the postnatal period
• Babies also benefit from less complications such as low birth weight
• Improves our blood circulation
• Improves lymphatic drainage and removal of toxins from your body
• The deep relaxation achieved during massage promotes better sleep patterns
What precautions should I take when having massage during pregnancy?
• Make sure that your therapist is qualified in pregnancy massage
• Trained therapists are aware of the special considerations such as avoiding specific pressure points which can stimulate labour
• As with any complementary therapy it is important to share any relevant medical conditions with your therapist
• Some medical conditions may be contraindicated for pregnancy massage
• Many professionals consider that the best position for you to have a massage is lying on your side, thereby avoiding pressure on your major vessels and ligaments
• Some pregnancy tables may not fit your bump and can still apply pressure to the uterine ligaments
In conclusion, studies indicate that pregnancy massage may improve overall physical and emotional health and wellbeing during pregnancy. It may be incorporated into your regular routine at any time during pregnancy, (although some therapists may prefer you to wait until the second trimester), so what are you waiting for? You know that you deserve it!
Your feedback and experience of massage would be much appreciated so do get in touch with your own experience of having pregnancy massage. I will send my latest Hypnosis CD for pregnancy, birth and beyond to the most interesting account.
Massage techniques have been performed over the centuries to improve overall health and wellbeing by reducing muscle tension and stress. The English word massage is probably derived from the Arabic Mass’h meaning to press softly, which makes this is an ideal therapy to help reduce and relieve those annoying symptoms of pregnancy. Studies point to both maternal and newborn benefits when regular massage is part of your antenatal care.
Potential benefits include:
• Relief from muscle aches and joint pain
• Reduction of swelling in legs, feet and hands
• May relieve sciatic pain by helping to reduce inflammation of nerves and ensuing muscle tension
• Regulates hormones by reducing the ‘stress’ hormones and increasing our ‘feel good’ hormones such as Dopamine and Serotonin
• Increasing our feel good hormones reduces the incidence of depression
• Improved hormone balance also leads to fewer complications in labour, birth and in the postnatal period
• Babies also benefit from less complications such as low birth weight
• Improves our blood circulation
• Improves lymphatic drainage and removal of toxins from your body
• The deep relaxation achieved during massage promotes better sleep patterns
What precautions should I take when having massage during pregnancy?
• Make sure that your therapist is qualified in pregnancy massage
• Trained therapists are aware of the special considerations such as avoiding specific pressure points which can stimulate labour
• As with any complementary therapy it is important to share any relevant medical conditions with your therapist
• Some medical conditions may be contraindicated for pregnancy massage
• Many professionals consider that the best position for you to have a massage is lying on your side, thereby avoiding pressure on your major vessels and ligaments
• Some pregnancy tables may not fit your bump and can still apply pressure to the uterine ligaments
In conclusion, studies indicate that pregnancy massage may improve overall physical and emotional health and wellbeing during pregnancy. It may be incorporated into your regular routine at any time during pregnancy, (although some therapists may prefer you to wait until the second trimester), so what are you waiting for? You know that you deserve it!
Saturday, 15 October 2011
Why use a Hypnobirthing CD during pregnancy
Hello again, and apologies for the long gap between blogs! I have been busy completing my pregnancy and baby gift sets and attended the recent Baby show at Eden Court in Inverness.
This is my latest offering and your comments and feedback are much appreciated. I will send a free CD to the first interesting comment received. Enjoy!
Why listen to a pregnancy hypnotherapy CD
More women are opting to use hypnobirthing techniques to help them relax during pregnancy and prepare for a natural birth. I am going to discuss what Hypnobirthing and pregnancy hypnotherapy is, and the key benefits of using a hypnosis CD to support your preparation during pregnancy.
What is pregnancy hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy has been used as a healing technique for centuries, and was coined from ‘Hypnos’ the Greek god of sleep. Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state similar to daydreaming, neither awake nor asleep. During hypnosis breathing slows, and muscles relax deeply whilst the mind remains alert to positive suggestions. Research has suggested that hypnotherapy may reduce pain, ease anxiety and significantly reduce the length of labour.
Hypnotherapy during pregnancy helps you to prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for a natural, calm pain free labour and birth. My pregnancy hypnotherapy CD uses a combination of techniques such as deep breathing, profound physical relaxation, visualizations and glove anaesthesia techniques.
Reasons to use a pregnancy hypnosis CD
1. Relaxation. Achieving deep physical and mental relaxation promotes the release of your own natural analgesia, (endorphins) and oxytocin the’ love hormone’ during labour and birthing
2. Eases morning sickness. Listening to positive suggestions and visualizations, hypnotherapy may help to reduce anxiety, sooth the digestive tract and promote feelings of physical and emotional wellbeing.
3. Bond with baby. Simple visualization techniques help you to bond with your baby during pregnancy
4. Helps you sleep. Many women find listening to a CD at night hugely beneficial as it encourage deep relaxation, physical comfort and promotes restful sleep, which may be more difficult as your bump gets bigger as pregnancy progresses.
5. Preparation for natural childbirth and parenting. Practicing techniques such as deep breathing, deep relaxation, visualizations and glove anaesthesia provide a wonderful toolbox for supporting labour, birth and early parenting.
6. Home comforts. Although a session with a hypnotherapist or attending a HypnoBirthing class brings the greatest benefits, many women cannot attend structured classes due to work commitments or other children. A pregnancy CD brings a hypnotherapy session to you in the comfort of your own home whenever you want.
“Your imagination is your preview of life’s coming attractions.” Albert Einstein
Find out more about how hypnotherapy during pregnancy can help you during pregnancy, birth and beyond. (www.mama2bshop.co.uk/)
This is my latest offering and your comments and feedback are much appreciated. I will send a free CD to the first interesting comment received. Enjoy!
Why listen to a pregnancy hypnotherapy CD
More women are opting to use hypnobirthing techniques to help them relax during pregnancy and prepare for a natural birth. I am going to discuss what Hypnobirthing and pregnancy hypnotherapy is, and the key benefits of using a hypnosis CD to support your preparation during pregnancy.
What is pregnancy hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy has been used as a healing technique for centuries, and was coined from ‘Hypnos’ the Greek god of sleep. Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state similar to daydreaming, neither awake nor asleep. During hypnosis breathing slows, and muscles relax deeply whilst the mind remains alert to positive suggestions. Research has suggested that hypnotherapy may reduce pain, ease anxiety and significantly reduce the length of labour.
Hypnotherapy during pregnancy helps you to prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for a natural, calm pain free labour and birth. My pregnancy hypnotherapy CD uses a combination of techniques such as deep breathing, profound physical relaxation, visualizations and glove anaesthesia techniques.
Reasons to use a pregnancy hypnosis CD
1. Relaxation. Achieving deep physical and mental relaxation promotes the release of your own natural analgesia, (endorphins) and oxytocin the’ love hormone’ during labour and birthing
2. Eases morning sickness. Listening to positive suggestions and visualizations, hypnotherapy may help to reduce anxiety, sooth the digestive tract and promote feelings of physical and emotional wellbeing.
3. Bond with baby. Simple visualization techniques help you to bond with your baby during pregnancy
4. Helps you sleep. Many women find listening to a CD at night hugely beneficial as it encourage deep relaxation, physical comfort and promotes restful sleep, which may be more difficult as your bump gets bigger as pregnancy progresses.
5. Preparation for natural childbirth and parenting. Practicing techniques such as deep breathing, deep relaxation, visualizations and glove anaesthesia provide a wonderful toolbox for supporting labour, birth and early parenting.
6. Home comforts. Although a session with a hypnotherapist or attending a HypnoBirthing class brings the greatest benefits, many women cannot attend structured classes due to work commitments or other children. A pregnancy CD brings a hypnotherapy session to you in the comfort of your own home whenever you want.
“Your imagination is your preview of life’s coming attractions.” Albert Einstein
Find out more about how hypnotherapy during pregnancy can help you during pregnancy, birth and beyond. (www.mama2bshop.co.uk/)
Friday, 16 September 2011
Understanding your Hormones During Pregnancy Part 3
Welcome to my latest blog, and today I want to tell you about an upcoming event which is our local Baby Show on 1-2nd October at Eden Court in Inverness. Come and visit me at my stand Mama2b and have a chat about a holistic approach to pregnancy and childbirth with Hypnobirthing. Try out my range of organic Mama2b products for pregnancy, birthing and babies, and the new gift sets for pregnancy and the gift box for baby too.
Finally, read my final article on your amazing hormones.
Childbirth involves peak levels of oxytocin and prolactin. Add to these beta-endorphins our body’s natural analgesia, and our ‘fight or flight’ hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, and we have a potent cocktail.
Beta-endorphins
• Beta-endorphins are stress hormones produced in the pituitry gland and inhibits the perception of pain
• High levels are present during lovemaking, pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding
• A naturally occurring opiate with analgesic properties similar to synthetic opiates such as pethidine.
• Suppresses the immune system which may be an important factor during early pregnancy aiding acceptance by our body of our developing baby
• It induces feelings of pleasure, euphoria and dependency
• Very high levels during labour, help women to transcend pain and reach an altered state of awereness or ‘zone out’
Fight or Flight Response Hormones
• Hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline comprise our fight or flight response to stress or danger
• Collectively they are known as catecholamines (CA)
• They are secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stressors, whereby they activate the sympathetic nervous sytem for fight or flight
• In the first stage of labour high levels of catecholamines inhibit oxytocin production which in turn slows or stalls labour
• They also reduce blood flow to the uterus, placenta and indirectly to the baby as the blood is redirected to major muscles groups
• Therefore, high levels of these hormones may prolong labour and lead to fetal distress
• Recent research has indicated that a sudden increase in catecholamines at the end of labour may be beneficial, activating the ‘fetal ejection reflex’ and a surge of strong contractions facilitating an easy and quick birth
• Post delivery effects include a rapid drop in levels and subsequent side effects of feeling cold and shivery, when it is important to remain warm
• Baby also experiences high catecholamine levels at birth, which ensures that he/she is alert and responsive, important for bonding and breastfeeding
Prolactin
• Commonly known as the ‘mothering’ hormone prolactin is produced in the pituitry gland
• Increased levels during pregnancy promote development and enlargement of the mammary glands of the breasts
• Falling levels of progesterone stimulate milk production in conjunction with your baby’s sucking stimulation
• Contributes to the surfactant synthesis of your baby’s lungs which help them to mature
• Prolactin may make you feel more maternal
• High levels are found in fathers closely involved with their baby promoting bonding and reducing testosterone levels and libido, but not sexual function!
• Prolactin is produced during sleep and levels are highest at night, hence the importance of night feeding for lactation
• Baby also produces prolactin in pregnancy and early research indicates it may play a role in maturation of baby’s brain/hormone system
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. As always your comments and feedback are most welcome.
Take care,
Amanda
Finally, read my final article on your amazing hormones.
Childbirth involves peak levels of oxytocin and prolactin. Add to these beta-endorphins our body’s natural analgesia, and our ‘fight or flight’ hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, and we have a potent cocktail.
Beta-endorphins
• Beta-endorphins are stress hormones produced in the pituitry gland and inhibits the perception of pain
• High levels are present during lovemaking, pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding
• A naturally occurring opiate with analgesic properties similar to synthetic opiates such as pethidine.
• Suppresses the immune system which may be an important factor during early pregnancy aiding acceptance by our body of our developing baby
• It induces feelings of pleasure, euphoria and dependency
• Very high levels during labour, help women to transcend pain and reach an altered state of awereness or ‘zone out’
Fight or Flight Response Hormones
• Hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline comprise our fight or flight response to stress or danger
• Collectively they are known as catecholamines (CA)
• They are secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stressors, whereby they activate the sympathetic nervous sytem for fight or flight
• In the first stage of labour high levels of catecholamines inhibit oxytocin production which in turn slows or stalls labour
• They also reduce blood flow to the uterus, placenta and indirectly to the baby as the blood is redirected to major muscles groups
• Therefore, high levels of these hormones may prolong labour and lead to fetal distress
• Recent research has indicated that a sudden increase in catecholamines at the end of labour may be beneficial, activating the ‘fetal ejection reflex’ and a surge of strong contractions facilitating an easy and quick birth
• Post delivery effects include a rapid drop in levels and subsequent side effects of feeling cold and shivery, when it is important to remain warm
• Baby also experiences high catecholamine levels at birth, which ensures that he/she is alert and responsive, important for bonding and breastfeeding
Prolactin
• Commonly known as the ‘mothering’ hormone prolactin is produced in the pituitry gland
• Increased levels during pregnancy promote development and enlargement of the mammary glands of the breasts
• Falling levels of progesterone stimulate milk production in conjunction with your baby’s sucking stimulation
• Contributes to the surfactant synthesis of your baby’s lungs which help them to mature
• Prolactin may make you feel more maternal
• High levels are found in fathers closely involved with their baby promoting bonding and reducing testosterone levels and libido, but not sexual function!
• Prolactin is produced during sleep and levels are highest at night, hence the importance of night feeding for lactation
• Baby also produces prolactin in pregnancy and early research indicates it may play a role in maturation of baby’s brain/hormone system
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. As always your comments and feedback are most welcome.
Take care,
Amanda
Sunday, 4 September 2011
TIPS E-Newsletter September 2011
Welcome back again to my blog! I just wanted to share the recent review by a TIPS parent tester for my new CD. There is also a mini competition which gives you a chance to win one of two CDs. For more information and to sign up for TIPS Newsletter go to: www.tipsltd.com
Amanda Gwynne - RGN. RM. ITEC. Complementary Therapies, MNSPH Hypnotherapy, Baby Massage Instructor & HypnoBirthing Practitioner
RRP: £11.99 Listening time: 102 minutes (includes 12 page information booklet)
For more information:
contact Amanda (email amanda@mama2b.com or call 07818 415 516)
visit www.mama2b.com/hypnobirthing
HypnoBirthing is as much a philosophy of birth as it is a technique for achieving a calm, relaxing and stress free way of giving birth. This wonderful program teaches prospective parents breathing techniques, deep relaxation, visualizations, glove anaesthesia and self-hypnosis for a more gentle and natural experience of birthing.
With over 30 years experience Amanda Gwynne offers hypnoBirthing, baby massage, babymooning, bespoke antenatal education, and natural fertility workshops throughout the UK. You can listen to 30 second clips of her three-part CD online at: www.mama2b.com/hypnobirthing
Review by Ariane (TIPS Parent Tester)
The idea of Hypnobirthing is to have a safe, easier, more comfortable birth.
I have only listened to the CD a few times so far but already feel more confident about the labour. It makes you see it in a completely different way and actually look forward to it.
There are 3 parts to this CD.
Part 1 is for the first trimester, and mainly helps with getting through the difficult morning sickness and tiredness stage.
Part 2 is for the second trimester, and deals with getting to know your baby as it grows inside you and understand your feelings about labour.
Part 3 is for the third trimester, and deals with tiredness and labour, as well as helping you to feel confident about how you will be after the baby comes.
I am currently on part 2, and can’t wait to get on to part 3 (one more week to go!). I am much more relaxed and less worried about how labour is going to be, and almost looking forward to it. I’m sure given another few weeks I will be looking forward to it completely.
It’s great listening to it first thing in the morning as it helps you focus on the day ahead, and feel calmer and more relaxed about pregnancy in general.
I will definitely keep on listening to this and hopefully this will result in a positive labour experience.
For a chance to win 1 of 2 Hypnosis for pregnancy and beyond... CDs check out mini-competition 8
Amanda Gwynne - RGN. RM. ITEC. Complementary Therapies, MNSPH Hypnotherapy, Baby Massage Instructor & HypnoBirthing Practitioner
RRP: £11.99 Listening time: 102 minutes (includes 12 page information booklet)
For more information:
contact Amanda (email amanda@mama2b.com or call 07818 415 516)
visit www.mama2b.com/hypnobirthing
HypnoBirthing is as much a philosophy of birth as it is a technique for achieving a calm, relaxing and stress free way of giving birth. This wonderful program teaches prospective parents breathing techniques, deep relaxation, visualizations, glove anaesthesia and self-hypnosis for a more gentle and natural experience of birthing.
With over 30 years experience Amanda Gwynne offers hypnoBirthing, baby massage, babymooning, bespoke antenatal education, and natural fertility workshops throughout the UK. You can listen to 30 second clips of her three-part CD online at: www.mama2b.com/hypnobirthing
Review by Ariane (TIPS Parent Tester)
The idea of Hypnobirthing is to have a safe, easier, more comfortable birth.
I have only listened to the CD a few times so far but already feel more confident about the labour. It makes you see it in a completely different way and actually look forward to it.
There are 3 parts to this CD.
Part 1 is for the first trimester, and mainly helps with getting through the difficult morning sickness and tiredness stage.
Part 2 is for the second trimester, and deals with getting to know your baby as it grows inside you and understand your feelings about labour.
Part 3 is for the third trimester, and deals with tiredness and labour, as well as helping you to feel confident about how you will be after the baby comes.
I am currently on part 2, and can’t wait to get on to part 3 (one more week to go!). I am much more relaxed and less worried about how labour is going to be, and almost looking forward to it. I’m sure given another few weeks I will be looking forward to it completely.
It’s great listening to it first thing in the morning as it helps you focus on the day ahead, and feel calmer and more relaxed about pregnancy in general.
I will definitely keep on listening to this and hopefully this will result in a positive labour experience.
For a chance to win 1 of 2 Hypnosis for pregnancy and beyond... CDs check out mini-competition 8
Tuesday, 30 August 2011
Understanding your Hormones During Pregnancy Part 2
Welcome back to my blog. I hope you enjoyed my first article on hormones and I am sharing the second one with you today. I have found the whole subject fascinating and I am overawed at the complexity of our hormones throughout our life events.
Mother nature in her infinite wisdom has created a complex system of hormones to nurture and support us throughout pregnancy and childbirth. This week I am focusing on the hormones that are involved in the finale of pregnancy and childbirth.
Relaxin
• Belonging to the insulin family relaxin is a protein hormone produced by the corpus luteum, breasts and placenta
• During pregnancy relaxin is found in ten times its normal concentration
• It relaxes smooth muscle, joints and ligaments, and promotes dilation of blood vessels in organs and tissues including the uterus, mammary glands and heart
• Reaches peak levels at 14 weeks and again at delivery
• Contributes to symptoms of heartburn, and pelvic girdle discomfort
• Relaxin helps increase the space for baby to pass through the birth canal
• It also soften and lengthens the cervix
• High levels are found in women with type1 diabetes as well as twin pregnancies
• Effects can last up to 5 months post delivery
Oxytocin
• Oxytocin is commonly known as the ‘love’ hormone as it is released in pulses during lovemaking, childbirth and breastfeeding, and engenders emotions of love
• Produced by the Hypothalamus and stored in the posterior Pituitry gland
• Outside the brain oxytocin-containing cells have been identified in diverse places including the placenta, thymus, adrenal medulla, pancreas and retina
• Oxytocin causes the rhythmic uterine contractions of labour, and levels soar towards the end of labour stimulated by ‘stretch receptors’ in the vagina as baby descends
• It is also responsible for the ‘fetal ejection reflex’ at the end of childbirth facilitating birthing quickly and easily at the end of an undisturbed labour
• These high levels also benefit your baby as they cross the placental barrier and switch off baby’s brain cells reducing the amount of oxygen required during labour
• Following delivery oxytocin stimulates the ‘placental ejection reflex reducing the risk of haemorrhage and also triggers the ‘milk ejection’ or ‘let down’ reflex in breastfeeding
• Your baby has also been producing oxytocin so that crucial bonding is initiated between you both, enhanced by skin to skin touching
• Suckling at the breast stimulates more oxytocin to be produced via the hypothalamus
• Oxytocin promotes feeling of contentment, a reduction in anxiety and feelings of calmness
• High levels of ‘stress hormones’ interfere with oxytocin levels during labour and may cause a delay in progress
• Synthetic oxytocin does not cross the blood/brain barrier except in small amounts therefore, does not have the same euphoric effects as natural oxytocin
Each hormone has its own unique and vital part to play in our ability to procreate, nurture, support and protect our babies during pregnancy and childbirth. Each one is vital, and although the side effects are not always pleasant, it is reassuring to know they are there for a reason. In my final article next week we will be looking at beta-endorphins and prolactin.
Mother nature in her infinite wisdom has created a complex system of hormones to nurture and support us throughout pregnancy and childbirth. This week I am focusing on the hormones that are involved in the finale of pregnancy and childbirth.
Relaxin
• Belonging to the insulin family relaxin is a protein hormone produced by the corpus luteum, breasts and placenta
• During pregnancy relaxin is found in ten times its normal concentration
• It relaxes smooth muscle, joints and ligaments, and promotes dilation of blood vessels in organs and tissues including the uterus, mammary glands and heart
• Reaches peak levels at 14 weeks and again at delivery
• Contributes to symptoms of heartburn, and pelvic girdle discomfort
• Relaxin helps increase the space for baby to pass through the birth canal
• It also soften and lengthens the cervix
• High levels are found in women with type1 diabetes as well as twin pregnancies
• Effects can last up to 5 months post delivery
Oxytocin
• Oxytocin is commonly known as the ‘love’ hormone as it is released in pulses during lovemaking, childbirth and breastfeeding, and engenders emotions of love
• Produced by the Hypothalamus and stored in the posterior Pituitry gland
• Outside the brain oxytocin-containing cells have been identified in diverse places including the placenta, thymus, adrenal medulla, pancreas and retina
• Oxytocin causes the rhythmic uterine contractions of labour, and levels soar towards the end of labour stimulated by ‘stretch receptors’ in the vagina as baby descends
• It is also responsible for the ‘fetal ejection reflex’ at the end of childbirth facilitating birthing quickly and easily at the end of an undisturbed labour
• These high levels also benefit your baby as they cross the placental barrier and switch off baby’s brain cells reducing the amount of oxygen required during labour
• Following delivery oxytocin stimulates the ‘placental ejection reflex reducing the risk of haemorrhage and also triggers the ‘milk ejection’ or ‘let down’ reflex in breastfeeding
• Your baby has also been producing oxytocin so that crucial bonding is initiated between you both, enhanced by skin to skin touching
• Suckling at the breast stimulates more oxytocin to be produced via the hypothalamus
• Oxytocin promotes feeling of contentment, a reduction in anxiety and feelings of calmness
• High levels of ‘stress hormones’ interfere with oxytocin levels during labour and may cause a delay in progress
• Synthetic oxytocin does not cross the blood/brain barrier except in small amounts therefore, does not have the same euphoric effects as natural oxytocin
Each hormone has its own unique and vital part to play in our ability to procreate, nurture, support and protect our babies during pregnancy and childbirth. Each one is vital, and although the side effects are not always pleasant, it is reassuring to know they are there for a reason. In my final article next week we will be looking at beta-endorphins and prolactin.
Friday, 12 August 2011
Understanding Your Hormones During Pregnancy
Understanding your hormones during pregnancy, may help you to appreciate the amazing event and miracle of creation in spite of some of the less endearing disorders caused by the symphony of finely tuned hormones of pregnancy. Pregnancy is one of the most amazing events of your life and brings with it many changes both physical and emotional to support and nurture your developing baby until full term.
Where do hormones originate?
Hormones are secreted by the endocrine system derived from the Greek ‘endo’ meaning inside and ‘crinis’ which is secrete. Their job is to trigger and regulate activity throughout our bodies. Our whole sexual health and fertility, the creation and continuation of pregnancy depend on our hormones.
Hormones released after implantation in the first trimester
The first trimester of pregnancy begins with conception, as the sperm unites with the egg. The embryo implants into the uterine lining (endometrium) and prevents the usual fall in oestrogen and progesterone, which occurs if fertilization does not occur. The first sign of pregnancy is usually a missed period.
Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin
HCG is produced by the chorionic villi after implantation of the embryo and stimulates the corpus luteum of the ovary to increase its production of progesterone to maintain the pregnancy until about 10-12 weeks when the placenta is mature enough to take over production. Levels of HCG peak at about 70 days and is the main hormone measured in pregnancy tests to confirm a positive pregnancy. Unusually high levels may indicate a multiple pregnancy. HCG is thought to be the hormone responsible for a number of early pregnancy symptoms including morning sickness and the overwhelming fatigue that some women experience.
Progesterone
Progesterone is one of the major hormones of pregnancy and is produced initially by the corpus luteum, followed by the placenta with a steady rise in levels until labour and birth when there is a rapid drop in levels. This drop may also be one of the triggers to facilitate the onset of labour.
During implantation and early gestation, progesterone appears to decrease your maternal immune response to help facilitate the acceptance of your embryo by your body. It decreases contractility of the uterine smooth muscle by preventing contractions to maintain your pregnancy. Some of the ‘minor disorders of pregnancy such as heartburn and constipation are also down to the relaxation of smooth muscles!
Progesterone in conjunction with relaxin also softens cartilage, which may contribute to the common ‘pelvic girdle discomfort’ that many women experience during their pregnancy as it progresses.
On the positive side many women find that their hair appears thicker and glossier, as progesterone stimulates your hair follicles to go into a resting phase.
Finally, high levels of progesterone inhibit prolactin during pregnancy, but may help to trigger milk production after birth due to its rapid fall at the end of pregnancy.
There are so many hormones working in harmony throughout your pregnancy that it is impossible for me to include them all in one article. Watch out for my next blog when I will continue to explore the amazing effects of hormones on pregnancy, birth and beyond.
Sunday, 31 July 2011
Watch my video presentation on Hypnobirthing
Hello again,
I am sorry it has been such a long time since I last wrote my blog, so much has been happening work wise. I am now an expert on www.mindfulmum.co.uk a great mazazine style website with a huge amount of useful information, advice and articles relating to conception, pregnancy, birth and babies. I love their ethical and holistic ethos and feel proud to be part of their team. My latest article on 'Why use affirmations during pregnancy and childbirth" is available to read on their website so so check it out.
Finally, I have recorded my first video powerpoint presentation on Hypnobirthing. Have a look and see what you think!
http://youtu.be/y861mUUG6sM
Thanks for watching and look forward to chatting soon.
Amanda
I am sorry it has been such a long time since I last wrote my blog, so much has been happening work wise. I am now an expert on www.mindfulmum.co.uk a great mazazine style website with a huge amount of useful information, advice and articles relating to conception, pregnancy, birth and babies. I love their ethical and holistic ethos and feel proud to be part of their team. My latest article on 'Why use affirmations during pregnancy and childbirth" is available to read on their website so so check it out.
Finally, I have recorded my first video powerpoint presentation on Hypnobirthing. Have a look and see what you think!
http://youtu.be/y861mUUG6sM
Thanks for watching and look forward to chatting soon.
Amanda
Sunday, 10 July 2011
Friday, 24 June 2011
Using a birthing ball during pregnancy and childbirth
Welcome to my blog!
There was a full moon eclipse last wednesday (15th June 2011). Astrologers say this heralds a time of many changes and disruptions in our lives and I have certainly noticed changes occurring in my life! When I worked in the Far east the Chinese were very in tune with the cycles of the moon and its impact on labour and childbirth. During the week of the full moon women flooded in to the hospital with their 'waters' leaking and in labour. As we know the moon has a huge impact on the tides of the ocean and all things fluid. Bearing in mind that our constitution is mainly water, and our baby floats around in water for nine months it is hardly surprising that the full moon also impacts on us during this time. If you have been affected by the full moon with your experience of pregnancy or childbirth I would love to hear from with you with your story. With consent, I will publish the most interesting story on my blog and send the recipient a free gift of Mama2b organic baby products.
Moving on to my article for todays blog. I thought I would follow on from my last blog about the benefits of perineal massage to using the birthing ball for pregnancy and childbirth. Recent research has shown that the benefits of using the ball during pregnancy encourage the pelvic floor to relax and stretch during labour, as well as many other benefits.
BENEFITS OF USING THE BALL
In labour:
After birth:
Directions for using the birth ball:
Well, thats it for this week. I look forward to hearing from you soon with your own experience of a full moon birthing!
Take care, Amanda For any further information don’t hesitate to contact Amanda on www.mama2b.com
There was a full moon eclipse last wednesday (15th June 2011). Astrologers say this heralds a time of many changes and disruptions in our lives and I have certainly noticed changes occurring in my life! When I worked in the Far east the Chinese were very in tune with the cycles of the moon and its impact on labour and childbirth. During the week of the full moon women flooded in to the hospital with their 'waters' leaking and in labour. As we know the moon has a huge impact on the tides of the ocean and all things fluid. Bearing in mind that our constitution is mainly water, and our baby floats around in water for nine months it is hardly surprising that the full moon also impacts on us during this time. If you have been affected by the full moon with your experience of pregnancy or childbirth I would love to hear from with you with your story. With consent, I will publish the most interesting story on my blog and send the recipient a free gift of Mama2b organic baby products.
Moving on to my article for todays blog. I thought I would follow on from my last blog about the benefits of perineal massage to using the birthing ball for pregnancy and childbirth. Recent research has shown that the benefits of using the ball during pregnancy encourage the pelvic floor to relax and stretch during labour, as well as many other benefits.
USING THE BIRTHING BALL DURING PREGNANCY AND LABOUR
The ball was originally developed and used for physical therapy treatment, mainly by physiotherapists. The birthing ball is a fantastic comfort tool to use during your pregnancy, labour, birth and beyond. The ball is very versatile, light and portable, and easy to clean. The birthing ball has been chosen for its safety, with anti-burst up to 250kgs.
Using the birthing ball during the last months of pregnancy has many benefits such as encouraging the optimum position for baby prior to labour, and also strengthens the lower back and abdominal muscles. During labour the ball can be used to support different positions for comfort and support. Postnatally the ball can be used to help regain your figure.
BENEFITS OF USING THE BALL
In pregnancy:
1 Sitting upright on the ball with legs at a 90 degree angle from 34 weeks onwards enhances pelvic and perineal relaxation.
2 Rocking and swaying whilst sitting on the ball helps to encourage your baby into an optimum position for labour and birth, especially if carried out daily from 34 weeks gestation.
3 Using the ball in the last month of pregnancy helps to strengthen the lower back and abdominal muscles.
4 Squatting on the ball may increase the pelvic outlet by 1-2cms.
5 Leaning over the ball and swaying your hips helps your baby into an optimum position and also eases backache.
In labour:
1 In labour, the ball can be an invaluable tool and used in a variety of positions.
2 Sitting on the ball for monitoring or other procedures avoids being restricted to lying on the bed with restricted movement.
3 Sitting on the ball encourages a natural swaying movement of the hips. This not only encourages fetal descent, but helps to relieve some discomfort during contractions.
4 With the ball on the floor or the bed you can kneel and lean over the ball, which is great for relieving ‘back’ labour and aids rotation of a fetus in a posterior position.
5 Leaning over the ball can also be used for the ‘pushing’ stage of labour.
After birth:
1 Sitting on the ball with baby on your knees is very soothing to babies with its natural swaying motion.
2 Once you have been given the ‘all clear’ from your GP the ball is a great tool to help tone up those muscles and get you back in shape.
Directions for using the birth ball:
1 The birth ball should be large enough for you to sit on with legs bent at a 90 degree angle ( See size order guide).
2 Use the birth ball with a ‘spotter’ someone to help you on and off the ball and provide support for some positions.
3 The birth ball should be inflated using the pump provided and should roll easily, and feel firm to the touch.
For any further information don’t hesitate to contact Amanda on www.mama2b.com
Sunday, 12 June 2011
The benefits of Perineal Massage
Hello again!
I thought I would talk about a topic I think is so important for women. Many women don't know what or where their perineum is located and how important it is to their physical and maybe indirectly to their emotional well-being. We start our lives wearing a nappy and I for one do not want to spend my latter years wearing them because of stress incontinence, not to mention the embarrassment and poor body image!
Luckily, we now know that spending a few minutes a day during the latter weeks of pregnancy massaging the perineum can help it to stretch during labour, reducing the incidence of tears and trauma with long term consequences. Don't forget even if you do not need stitches it is still important after delivery to strengthen the muscles again by doing your pelvic floor exercises, preventing prolapse of the uterus and the dreaded leakage!
I thought I would talk about a topic I think is so important for women. Many women don't know what or where their perineum is located and how important it is to their physical and maybe indirectly to their emotional well-being. We start our lives wearing a nappy and I for one do not want to spend my latter years wearing them because of stress incontinence, not to mention the embarrassment and poor body image!
Luckily, we now know that spending a few minutes a day during the latter weeks of pregnancy massaging the perineum can help it to stretch during labour, reducing the incidence of tears and trauma with long term consequences. Don't forget even if you do not need stitches it is still important after delivery to strengthen the muscles again by doing your pelvic floor exercises, preventing prolapse of the uterus and the dreaded leakage!
Perineal Massage:
The perineum involves the skin and muscles between the vagina and anus. As your baby’s head is crowning, the pressure of the head on the perineum stretches and expands the perineaum enabling the baby to be born easily. On occasion the perineum is unable to stretch sufficiently and tearing may occur.
Several research studies have shown that perineal massage during the latter weeks of pregnancy is helpful in preventing the incidence of tearing, lacerations and the need for an episiotomy.
Directions:
Perineal massage should be started at about 34 weeks gestation either by you or your partner. You will need some vegetable oil such as organic sunflower oil or a blend such as Mama2b perineal oil. These oils contain nutrients which can be absorbed by the tissues, whereas mineral oil just coats the surface. Use a mirror initially to see what you are doing if practicing yourself. Find a comfortable, private place to perform the massage and don’t forget to time yourself too!
Positioning:
Massaging yourself may be easier if you stand with one foot raised and resting on a chair, or the bath, using your thumb to massage yourself. If your partner is going to assist you, you can relax in a semi-reclining position, propped up wih pillows, legs apart and supported with a pillow under each knee. Your partner can use the index and middle finger to perform the massage.
Technique:
Take a few deep breaths to relax and then dip two fingers in the oil and slowly and gently insert them 1 to 1.5 inches into the entrance of the vagina (maximum up to second knuckle). The fingers pull down gently and then sweep from side to side from 3 o’clock to 9 o’clock and back again. You should feel a slight tingling or burning sensation, but not pain. Ease off if it is painful and build up gradually. The movement replicates the way the perineum stretches during birth. You can also massage the outside area between forefinger and thumb. Start with 2 minutes the first week and increase slowly until you can massage for up to 5 minutes.
Benefits:
The ability to participate and enjoy a more comfortabel birthing and postnatal recovery. It can be particularly helpful if you have previous scar tissue or a rigid perineum from exercise such as horse riding.
Reference:
Shipman. MK. et al. Antenatal perineal massage and subsequentperineal outcomes: a randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 104(7): 787-91, July, 1997.
Contact Amanda at amanda@mama2b.com or www.mama2b.com
Well thats it for this week. I will jump off my soap box now and do my pelvic floor exercises!
Take care until next time.
Amanda
Thursday, 2 June 2011
Guiding your baby into an optimal position for childbirth
Hello folks, I am happy to announce that the sun is shining and I didn't need to wear my coat when I took the dog for a walk this morning! Hooray! Following my last blog, my website is now live and available for you to visit at www.mama2b.com
Welcome to my third blog, I hope you enjoy reading my blog today. I have written about a subject that is dear to my heart as both myself and my daughter experienced labour and birth with a baby in a posterior position. Therefore, I want to spread the word so that others may avoid a long and difficult birth with this knowledge.
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. Any comments much appreciated and if you would like to share your experience about a posterior baby, I would love to hear from you.
Welcome to my third blog, I hope you enjoy reading my blog today. I have written about a subject that is dear to my heart as both myself and my daughter experienced labour and birth with a baby in a posterior position. Therefore, I want to spread the word so that others may avoid a long and difficult birth with this knowledge.
I am passionate about teaching pregnant women about optimal fetal positioning, and the side effects of a posterior position of the baby on their experience of labour and birth. Having experienced a posterior position (baby lying with his/her back to your back) during labour and childbirth myself, and how it impacted on the outcome of my delivery, has motivated me to spread the word. Sadly, when I had my daughter many years ago no one really knew about the effects of a posterior position and how to prevent or change your baby’s position prior to, and during labour. Thankfully, times have changed and we have the knowledge to help ourselves now.
During the latter weeks of pregnancy most babies will adopt a position with their back towards the front of their mothers abdomen. However, our 21st century lifestyle has encouraged an increase in the number of babies lying in a posterior position.
You can tell if your baby is lying in a posterior position if:
· You feel the baby kicking at the front of your tummy, rather than at the side
· You notice a dip in your abdomen over your belly button when you lie on your back
· You may have backache in the last few weeks and your baby’s head does not engage into the pelvis
However, all is not lost! From 34 weeks onward your own postural awareness and habits can encourage your baby to lie with his/her back to your left front side of your abdomen. This position encourages the baby’s head to engage in the pelvic brim with the baby’s head in a flexed position. This has the potential to increase the likelihood of a normal birth, due to a smaller diameter of baby’s head and nice even pressure on the cervix (opening to uterus) during labour.
There are many techniques you can employ to encourage your baby into an optimal position during the latter weeks of your pregnancy:
· Spend time every day on all fours (the uterus forms into a hammock and the baby naturally swings round to an optimal position as the spine is heavier and follows gravity)
· Use forward leaning upward postures e.g. Leaning over a bean bag or birthing ball
· Always sit with your knees lower than your hips
· Spending time sitting on a birthing ball with your legs at a 90degree angle, rocking and swaying intermittently.
· Leaning over the ball and swaying your hips helps ease your baby into an optimal position and also helps to ease backache.
· Lie on your left side to rest with a pillow between your knees.
· Swimming with the abdomen forward, but avoid breast- stroke movements with your legs as it stretches the ligaments.
· Use the Rebozo technique to help the baby rotate into an anterior position
A baby lying the other way round with his/her spine against your spine and facing forward looking ahead (like a soldier at attention) is often described by health professionals as being in a posterior position or OP position. It’s a good idea to ask your midwife or obstetrician at your clinic visits what position your baby is lying in from about 34 weeks.
The side effects of having a posterior position prior to, and during labour and birth are:
· Baby not engaging in the pelvis prior to labour
· A larger diameter of his head to descend through your birth canal
· Uneven pressure on the cervix due to positioning
· This may lead to a longer more complicated labour and birth
· Early rupture of membranes (breaking of waters spontaneously)
Jean Sutton pioneer of optimal fetal positioning suggests tips in early labour to encourage the baby to rotate in to an optimal position:
· Walking up some stairs sideways bringing her second leg up beside the first on each stair
· Rocking from side to side also lifts the hips
· March on the spot
· Lift one foot (your preference) on to a stool
· Try lying on your left side initially with a pillow under the uterus to lift it to the midline.
Studies have shown that just spending 10 minutes a day in the hands and knees position can encourage the baby to lie in an optimal position.
There have been many medical advances in childbirth since I had my daughter, but I think this simple technique has the potential to save many women from a long and painful labour with medical intervention and assisted delivery. It is simple and easy to implement these simple techniques into daily life, but the benefits are enormous!
References:
Sutton J. and Scott P. 1995. Understanding and Teaching Optimal Foetal Positioning. Birth Concepts, New Zealand.
Robertson A. 2004. The Midwife Companion: The art of support during birth. Birth International, Australia.
If you would like any further advice or to discuss optimal fetal positioning please don’t hesitate to contact me on: amanda@mama2b.com or alternatively call me on 0905 620 1241 (calls cost £1 a minute)
Friday, 20 May 2011
Learning to do 'nothing' and just 'be'
It has been one of those weeks! I have realised that patience is not one of my strong points, and I hate waiting for things or events. For example, there have been hiccoughs and delays with my beautiful new website going live (very frustrating) and finally my new CDs arrived yesterday after what seem like forever! However, having cried, jumped up and down in frustration, I have finally come to the conclusion that this has not made any difference to the outcome, but it has affected I the way I experience the events in my life. Once I changed my attitude to these holdups, which I could not change, and allowed myself to just "be" I felt much calmer.
It brought to mind some words of wisdom from Marie Mongan founder of HypnoBirthing that women realise that they have the ability to relax through the first stage of labour, but when it come to the baby's descent and birthing, that is a different ball game. Suddenly they want to know what to do to give birth. Marie Mongans answer is simply 'nothing'. She suggests that using HypnoBirthing 'nothing' works very well. Its natures perfect design from the very outset of our conception.
A pregnant woman does nothing following conception, and during the next 40 weeks a baby develops and grows within her uterus. Life progresses with more changes and development within her mind and body which she trusts implicitly until she enters the medical model in labour. Don't get me wrong, medical intervention at the appropriate time saves lives. However, women are not encouraged to listen to their own body and instincts. Women instinctively turn their birthing over to their bodies and 'zone out' so that their mind with all its fears and preconceived ideas are released. In reality, the only important thing that you need to do is 'nothing' and to just 'be'. Marie Mongan suggests that "we need to stop fixing birth and allow the rhythm and flow of birthing. What women need to master is to be 'out of their minds' so that calm birthing becomes normal and not something extraordinary".
'Your vision becomes clear when you look inside your heart. Who looks outside dreams. Who looks inside awakens'
Carl Yung
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
First blog from Mama2b
Welcome!
I am thrilled to be able to share my news, views and useful information/articles that I have either written or found from my research into fertility, pregnancy, natural childbirth and early parenting. I hope you will find this blog helpful and informative, and look forward to hearing your feedback.
I recently attended the Scottish Baby show in Glasgow with my 'wee' stand Mama2b and had a great few days speaking to prospective parents, finding out about their experiences past and present. What struck me the most was that so many people had experienced trauma during their first labour and birth, with their birthing experience so far removed from what they had imagined and hoped for themselves, their partner and their baby. Many felt scared and and were not looking forward to their next labour and birth. This has a big impact on their feelings and enjoyment of this current pregnancy. Most of them stated that this time round they wanted to have a different experience. They desired a more gentle and calm experience of childbirth, using natural techniques such as breathing, visualizations, and to remain more aware and in control of their choices during pregnancy, labour and birthing.
I was more than delighted to explain about HypnoBirthing which I have been practicing since early 2004 as a midwife/hypnotherapist and as a HypnoBirthing practitioner for the last two years with the Mongan method. I will attach an article that I have written about hypnobirthing with my next blog, for those of you who are interested and would be delighted to answer any questions you may have about upcoming courses available throughout the UK.
Finally, just to let you know that I have a stand at the Bumps, Babies and Beyond pregnancy and baby fair at Tree Tops Hilton in Aberdeen on 22nd May from 10 am until 4 pm. Do come over and say 'hello' and have a look at the exclusive range of organic aromatherapy products for pregnancy, birth and beyond blended for their therapeutic properties. Take some time out and listen to my new extended 3 track hypnobirthing CD including morning sickness, baby bonding and relaxation, and preparation for labour and birthing.
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.
Wishing you all health and happiness.
Amanda
I am thrilled to be able to share my news, views and useful information/articles that I have either written or found from my research into fertility, pregnancy, natural childbirth and early parenting. I hope you will find this blog helpful and informative, and look forward to hearing your feedback.
I recently attended the Scottish Baby show in Glasgow with my 'wee' stand Mama2b and had a great few days speaking to prospective parents, finding out about their experiences past and present. What struck me the most was that so many people had experienced trauma during their first labour and birth, with their birthing experience so far removed from what they had imagined and hoped for themselves, their partner and their baby. Many felt scared and and were not looking forward to their next labour and birth. This has a big impact on their feelings and enjoyment of this current pregnancy. Most of them stated that this time round they wanted to have a different experience. They desired a more gentle and calm experience of childbirth, using natural techniques such as breathing, visualizations, and to remain more aware and in control of their choices during pregnancy, labour and birthing.
I was more than delighted to explain about HypnoBirthing which I have been practicing since early 2004 as a midwife/hypnotherapist and as a HypnoBirthing practitioner for the last two years with the Mongan method. I will attach an article that I have written about hypnobirthing with my next blog, for those of you who are interested and would be delighted to answer any questions you may have about upcoming courses available throughout the UK.
Finally, just to let you know that I have a stand at the Bumps, Babies and Beyond pregnancy and baby fair at Tree Tops Hilton in Aberdeen on 22nd May from 10 am until 4 pm. Do come over and say 'hello' and have a look at the exclusive range of organic aromatherapy products for pregnancy, birth and beyond blended for their therapeutic properties. Take some time out and listen to my new extended 3 track hypnobirthing CD including morning sickness, baby bonding and relaxation, and preparation for labour and birthing.
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.
Wishing you all health and happiness.
Amanda
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