In each class we cover important information on a range of topics regarding pregnancy and childbirth, hypnosis tools and practice hypnosis sessions. All of the material in class is very important, as is any material that students will follow-up with at home. Here is a brief overview of each class.

Class1: Introduction to Hypnobabies:

In class 1 students are introduced to the Hypnobabies' philosophy and positive mindset. We will discuss: the power of words, belief systems, how your mind works, the mind/body connection, and what hypnosis is and ISN'T. Topics also include anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, learning hypnosis tools and communication with your partner. We have an in-class hypnosis relaxation session called "Learning Self-Hypnosis."

Class 2: Staying Healthy and Low Risk:

In class 2 students learn about the importance of nutrition and exercise during pregnancy. We will discuss: nutritional guidelines, the importance of protein, avoiding harmful substances, prenatal positions, prenatal exercises for birth preparation. Topics also include natural comfort measures for pregnancy, using hypnosis for prenatal discomforts and an introduction to the stages of labor. We have an in-class hypnosis relaxation session called "Creating Anesthesia."

Class 3: Your Options in Birthing:

In class 3 students will learn about the choices in childbirth and preparing for birth. We will discuss: the importance of decision making, informed consent, your rights as a patient, communication with your care providers, and common procedures in childbirth and their risks. Topics also include creating a birth plan, packing your birth bag, and the benefits of professional labor support and touring the place of birth. We have an in-class hypnosis relaxation session called "Hypnotic Childbirth #1."

Class 4: The Onset of Labor:

In class 4 students learn all about what happens when their birthing time begins. We will discuss: "due" dates, preparing for your birth-day, how to time contractions, true labor vs. "pre"-labor, comfort and relaxation during labor, and creating a peaceful environment for birth. Topics also include communication with nurses, the progression of labor, optimal fetal positioning and using hypnosis tools "in the moment." We have an in-class hypnosis relaxation session called "Hypnotic Childbirth #2."

Class 5: Birth Partners, Transformation and Birth:

In class 5 students learn about the important role of the birth partner and about the stages of labor and pushing. We will discuss: birth partner support, partner's verbal cues, the stages of labor and birth, mother-directed pushing, using hypnosis for pushing, and the placenta. Topics also include how doulas help the birth partner, the change of plans script and postpartum choices. We also have an in-class practice of hypnosis tools, inlcuding all cues students have been practicing.

Class 6: Birthing Your Baby and Beyond:

In class 6 students create imagery of exactly what their birth will be like and we have a birth rehearsal. Class begins with an in-class hypnosis relaxation session called "Visualize Your Birth." Then students will practice being in labor with positional changes, eyes-open hypnosis, and cues from the birth partner. We will also discuss newborn procedures, postpartum care, breastfeeding and parenting.