Re: [ozmidwifery] birth and the power of the mind

[DebSlater]

Interestingly, it was the work of Grantly Dick-Read that inspired the formation of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) in the UK in 1946, in response to the increased medicalisation of childbirth. 

Although NCT antenatal teachers don't go as far as hypnobirthing, we do introduce the concept of the fear-tension-pain cycle, and the role of too much adrenaline in the progress (or lack of it) in labour - I myself use a flow chart which looks at how tension can be detrimental in labour (and highlight the role of adrenaline).  Many people find it a useful excercise, and find that it helps to give a purpose to the need to relax (rather than just the fact that it "feels nice").  However, it is my  understanding that some adrenaline is necessary in labour (am I correct?), it is just when there is too much.  I know this is putting it simplistically, as the role of the various hormones is incredibly complex.

Debbie Slater
Perth, WA