Finding Inner Strength: Katie's Birth Story

Preparing for a Different Experience

After experiencing anxieties from her first induced birth, Katie sought out hypnobirthing as a way to create a more positive experience. "I really wanted to do my best to create the most positive experience I could," Katie shares. "For me, that was a natural and calm birth."

Just days before her labour began, Katie experienced a family tragedy. Yet even in the midst of grief, she discovered she had developed inner resources she hadn't expected. "I was so glad for the extra strength I already had from both my 'hypno' self and the extra support I received from Claire," she reflects.

The Birth Journey

Katie began her labour at home, planning for a water birth. In an unusual but touching request, she asked me to be present during her labour - something I don't typically do as a hypnobirthing teacher. However, given the recent family tragedy and her special circumstances, I was honoured to provide this additional support and to be a part of her special day.

While her husband worked diligently to maintain the birth pool temperature, Katie focused on her breathing and relaxation techniques. The attending midwives created a respectful space, understanding Katie's need for quiet and calm. During this time, I guided her through one of our hypnobirthing relaxation sessions, helping her reconnect with her inner strength and focus.

Though her initial plan was for a home water birth, Katie's hypnobirthing preparation helped her stay calm and confident when circumstances suggested a different path. When the midwives recommended a hospital transfer given the length of her labour, she felt empowered to make this decision, understanding that the right birth on the day is the perfect birth. Shortly after transferring to hospital, Katie welcomed her beautiful daughter Evie into the world.

Looking Back

"Hypnobirthing completely transformed my second birthing experience," Katie reflects. "The sessions were fantastic and such good value for money. Claire is so knowledgeable and passionate about what she does. I experienced a family tragedy just days before the birth and was so glad for the extra strength I already had from both my 'hypno' self and the extra support I received from Claire. I had a great birth and a gorgeous baby daughter called Evie. I can't thank Claire and hypnobirthing enough."

Katie's story demonstrates how hypnobirthing can provide not just techniques for labour, but also emotional resilience that extends beyond the birthing room. Even in the face of unexpected personal challenges and changes to her birth preferences, she was able to maintain her focus and achieve a positive birth experience - the right birth on the day for her and baby Evie.

Are you preparing for birth and looking for tools to help you stay calm and confident, whatever path your birthing takes? Learn more about upcoming hypnobirthing courses here and discover how you can prepare for your own empowering birth journey.

Fear Release | Home Labour | Hospital Birth | Hospital Transfer | Second Birth