Your hypnobirthing shopping list
We’re often asked for a list of what you need to source / buy if using hypnobirthing. First of all, we want to stress that you don’t need to spend a large amount of money preparing for your birth! The most important and powerful thing you can take with you into birth is your breathwork - in for 4, out for 8. That said, we’ve listed a few items below that could be useful, some of which you may already own, some you might be able to borrow...
It’s worth noting that some items are better suited to certain birthing environments e.g. a candle works well at home but you can’t have an open flame in a hospital. If you have any queries, talk to your midwife about your options. If you’re planning a caesarean birth, you might find it useful to read this article as it talks about how you can use hypnobirthing in theatre.
LIGHTING
We recommend creating a softly-lit atmosphere to help you feel less inhibited and aid relaxation…
Candles - work well at home and if they’re scented, even better!
Battery-operated tea lights - work well in all settings.
Fairy lights - usually require access to a socket but can get battery operated ones.
Eye mask - if you can’t control the lighting in a space (e.g. if you're on a shared ward) this is a really good option to keep out any brightness.
AUDIO
What you listen to when giving birth is a very personal choice; some people opt for calming spa music but others prefer up-beat, feel-good tracks! Whatever you go for, you’ll need a way to play it…
Phone & charger - whether it’s a playlist on Spotify, generic spa music or 12 hours of ocean sounds on YouTube, you can usually use your phone for this. Just don't forget your charger!
Headphones - wireless ones are ideal for moving about or wearing in theatre.
Bluetooth speaker - a good alternative to headphones would be a portable speaker.
The Freya app - is the perfect audio companion for pregnancy, labour and birth. Freya is a virtual birth partner app and hypnobirthing-friendly surge timer. Freya will coach you through every surge using a simple breathing technique and help you to relax in between with a mix of calming music, positive affirmations and guided meditations. You can also customise Freya by importing voice notes with words of encouragement from friends and family. (Available to download for just £4.99 on both the App Store and Google Play Store).
SCENT
We recommend choosing essential oils that aid relaxation and then using them regularly in pregnancy when doing your hypnobirthing practice (just make sure they’re safe to use!). By doing so, you’ll build strong positive associations. Then, when in labour, this scent will remind you of all those times where you’ve felt safe, calm and relaxed…
Roller ball bottle - you could use one of these to roll essential oils onto your wrist. They can be used in all settings.
Electric diffuser, reed diffuser or room spray - these are all good options for filling a space with your chosen scent.
COMFORT
Here are some things you might like to consider to enhance your comfort and relaxation…
Massage oil - for light touch massage
Birth comb - squeezing a birthing comb can activate pressure points and help disperse the intensity of your surges
Flannel - can be used to create a hot or cold compress
Facial spray - for an instant spritz to help you feel refreshed
Blanket - familiar and something comforting from home to offer reassurance
TENS machine - you can usually buy or hire these devices (speak to your midwife) and they can help you manage the intensity of surges.
FUEL
It’s really important to make sure you have lots of high energy snacks and drinks available when you’re in labour…
Snacks - think about preparing for birth like you’d prepare for a marathon; your body needs fuel for energy!
Drinks - remaining hydrated is key; your uterus muscles will be working hard.
BITS & BOBS
Other items you might wish to consider getting hold of:
Birth ball - this can be used to support you in a U.F.O position during labour. It’s also a great way to mobilise during pregnancy and exercise gently postpartum.
Birth pool - if you’re planning a water birth at home, you can rent or purchase a birth pool from Birth Pool in a Box.
Waterproof mattress protector - this can be used to protect your sofa or bed whilst labouring at home or if planning home birth. You can always cover the protector with a soft throw or towels that can be washed afterwards.
Positive affirmation cards - these can be placed around the room and will act as little words of encouragement and positive reminders when you’re in labour. Check out our Little Pack of Positivity here.