Does Hypnobirthing Actually Work? What the Research Says

Hypnobirthing has moved from fringe practice to mainstream option. Celebrities endorse it. Instagram is full of serene birth stories crediting it. But beneath the testimonials and marketing, what does the actual evidence say? Does hypnobirthing work, and if so, what exactly does it do?

The answer is more nuanced than either enthusiasts or skeptics would have you believe.

What Hypnobirthing Actually Is

Hypnobirthing is a childpregnancy meditations method that uses self-hypnosis, deep relaxation, breathing techniques, and positive affirmations to reduce fear and pain during labor. The most well-known programs are HypnoBirthing (the Mongan Method), Hypnobabies, and the newer GentleBirth program.