Myth #1: “Is Hypnobirthing about being hypnotised?”

Let’s start with the word that throws most people off “hypno”. It sounds like you’re going to be zoned out or under someone else’s control but the reality is the opposite and no, you won’t be clucking like a chicken or staring at a swinging watch.

Hypnobirthing uses deep relaxation, calm breathing and guided visualisation to help you feel more in control during birth. Think of it like meditation or yoga – your body relaxes, but your mind is sharp and grounded. You’re completely in charge and aware, just deeply relaxed, like that lovely moment before drifting off to sleep. You’re actively working with your body not checking out from what’s happening.

Myth #2: “It only works if you’re having a home birth or going completely natural.”

Not at all! A lot of people assume Hypnobirthing is only useful if you’re planning an unmedicated home birth with fairy lights and soft music. While that sounds dreamy to some, the truth is Hypnobirthing works in any birth setting whether it’s hospital, home or birth centre and whether you use pain relief or not.

In fact, Hypnobirthing tools are amazing for managing nerves in a hospital environment, making informed decisions if your plan changes, or staying calm during a C-section. It’s not about a one-size-fits-all experience. It’s about giving you confidence and choice, whatever your birth path looks like.

Myth #3: “It promises a pain-free birth.”

It would be lovely if we could press a button and make all discomfort disappear but that’s not what Hypnobirthing claims to do. Instead, it teaches you how to respond differently to what your body is doing. You’ll learn how to breathe in a way that helps your body work more efficiently, stay calm during surges and soften instead of tense. Many parents do report feeling less pain but more importantly, they feel more in control and less afraid which changes the whole experience.

Myth #4: “It’s a bit too ‘woo-woo’ for me.”

This one’s really common and I totally get it. But actually Hypnobirthing is based on solid science. It taps into how the nervous system works, how fear affects labour and how hormones like oxytocin and adrenaline impact birth. By staying relaxed, you keep your body in the best state for birth to unfold naturally. So whether you’re into meditation or you’ve never tried it in your life, you can still benefit from these tools. You don’t have to be “alternative” to enjoy a calmer birth.

Myth #5: “It’s too late for me to start now.”

Honestly? It’s never too late. While starting in mid pregnancy gives you more time to practise and build confidence, even learning these techniques late on can make a difference.  Families who started the course at around 35 weeks still felt empowered, prepared and more at ease. So don’t count yourself out – you can still do it.

Final thoughts

Hypnobirthing isn’t about having a textbook perfect birth. It’s about feeling calm, capable and supported no matter what direction your journey takes. If you’ve been put off by any of these myths, maybe now you can see there’s so much more to explore. You deserve a positive birth story and Hypnobirthing could be the tool that helps you get there.