HypnoBirthing® UK

[kenashnic]

When my baby is crowning, when do I stop bearing down and when do I start again so I avoid tearing? My midwife has never heard or attented a hypnobirth so shes already confused about me not forcing my pushes. So she wont be able to coach me to help me avoid tearing like she does with other women. Is there anyway of knowing myself? Or do I just keep on bearing down since its not as forceful as pushing? I know when u force push u are told to stop then start after a while again to avoid tearing.

[soshanna_hayhoe]

With birth breathing and following your body's natural urges you give the perineum time to stretch gently and so there is no need to stop birth breathing routinely. Perineal massage done as per the book also prepares the tissues as does a water birth. Just follow your body's lead, visualise the blossom opening or unfolding easily and fully and maintain your relaxed calm state.

[Dee]

I agree with Soshanna - go with the flow of what your body and your baby tells you. Most mums seem to birth the baby, then as the urge to birth breathe or bear down goes away and you are focusing on welcoming your new baby into the world, take a break until you feel the urge to birth breathe again to birth the placenta - the length of break will depend on whether or not you have decided to go for waiting for the placenta to be delivered naturally or not. I hope you have a lovely calm, positive birthing experience.
Dee