Hypnobirthing More than Parent Education

Abstract

Hypnobirthing is a combination of hypnotherapy techniques and birth preparation education. Although it is often considered modern, hypnotherapy for childbirth has been documented as far back as the 1850s. The concepts and practices of hypnosis itself date back even further, appearing in writings from ancient philosophers such as Socrates and Plato. The scientific study of hypnosis began in the late 18th century with German physician Franz Mesmer, who used it in medical treatment and referred to it
as “mesmerism.” In the mid-19th century, English physician James Braid later coined the terms hypnosis and hypnotism, derived from the Greek god of sleep, Hypnos.