My hypnobirthing journey began with Suzie, and I truly believe those classes shaped how I experienced the birth of my baby.
My baby was born on 28th November, via a planned caesarean section in Conquest.
Before starting hypnobirthing, I felt anxious, nervous, overwhelmed and unsure about birth—especially knowing I would be having a caesarean. I carried a lot of fear around surgery, recovery, and whether I would feel present or calm during the experience. I worried that a planned c-section might feel clinical or out of my control.
After completing the hypnobirthing classes, everything changed. I felt informed, empowered, calm, and confident. I understood what would happen, why decisions were made, and—most importantly—what choices I still had. I no longer felt like birth was something happening to me; I felt like an active participant in my baby’s arrival.
In the days leading up to the birth, I focused on preparing mentally and emotionally. I used tools from my hypnobirthing classes, practiced breathing techniques, and visualised a calm, positive birth. Rather than feeling anxious, I felt grounded and ready. Knowing the plan helped me feel safe and reassured.
On the day of the birth, I was with my partner, and I felt calm, focused, and surprisingly excited. I used slow, steady breathing as we arrived at the hospital and while being prepared for surgery. Even in an unfamiliar environment, I felt a sense of peace and trust in my body and my baby.
Once in theatre, I drew heavily on my hypnobirthing tools. I focused on my breathing, used positive affirmations, and stayed connected to my body rather than tensing against the sensations. My birth partner played a vital role— holding my hand, speaking calmly, reminding me to breathe, advocating for preferences —and their presence made me feel safe and supported.
There was a moment where I felt a wobble—a surge of nerves as the procedure began—but I recognised it for what it was. I returned to my breath, grounded myself, and reminded myself that this was a calm and controlled birth. The hypnobirthing techniques helped me regain focus quickly.
I felt well supported by the medical team, who respected my birth preferences wherever possible. Even though this was an abdominal birth, it still felt gentle, intentional, and deeply personal.
When my baby was born and I heard his first cry, I felt an overwhelming wave of love, relief, and joy. Meeting my baby for the first time was emotional and powerful. The moment he was placed on my chest, the world seemed to stop.
The golden hour was incredibly special. We had skin-to-skin, fed, and simply soaked in the moment together. My partner was involved in cutting the cord, staying close, supporting bonding, and it felt exactly how I had hoped it would.
Overall, I feel extremely positive about my birth experience. Hypnobirthing helped me approach a planned caesarean with confidence rather than fear. It gave me tools, understanding, and the belief that all births are valid and powerful.
My birth partner was an essential part of this journey. They were calm, reassuring, and effective, and the hypnobirthing classes helped them understand how best to support me.
I would absolutely recommend hypnobirthing and Suzie to others—especially anyone preparing for a planned caesarean. I am so pleased I did the classes. They transformed my mindset and allowed me to experience my baby’s birth as calm, empowering, and beautiful.
