Project Duration
August 2010 – 2014
Funder
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust , Comprehensive Local Research Network
Project Staff
- Prof Soo Downe (PI) 1
- Kenny Finlayson 1
- Prof Helen Spiby 2
Staff Institutions
- University of Central Lancashire
- The University of Nottingham
Aims
Scoping exercise revealed that 'hypnobirthing' as a concept has been translated into practice in a number of ways, with a range of different components, and no particular agreement about when the sessions should start, and how many there should be. The one common component was that women and their potential birth partners were taught to undertake self-hypnosis.
Self-hypnosis is one of the few complementary modalities for labour pain that seems to have some evidence base, though this is not yet definitely established.
This study aims to assess the effectiveness of self-hypnosis in labour. The primary outcome measure is use of epidural analgesia.
Methods
Eligible nulliparous women who agree to take part are randomised to either usual care, or to group sessions run by midwives trained in self-hypnosis teaching techniques. The sessions take place at 32 and 35 weeks' gestation. Prospective birth partners are also invited to attend, though this is not essential. Each session lasts around 90 minutes. At the end of the first session, attendees are given a CD of the hypnosis 'script'. They are asked to practice with this daily, and then to use it in labour.
Participating women, and their birth companions, are also asked to complete a questionnaire at the time of entering the study, including a scale to assess hypnotisability for the pregnant women, and sub-questions that are designed to establish their beliefs about the possible efficacy (or not) of hypnosis. They are then sent follow on questionnaires when they reach 36 weeks' gestation, and at two weeks and six weeks after the birth. We will also be undertaking focus groups and interviews with staff and participants, to try to find out how being in the study and/or the intervention group influences experiences, beliefs and attitudes.
Stage of Development
Completed, papers pending.