What is HypnoBirthing?

HypnoBirthing® - The Mongan Method is a 5-6 week course that was developed and founded by Marie Mongan, M.Ed., M.Hy. Marie was a pioneer herself and had four children, all born in the late 1950s and early 60s, without the use of medication. She is the founder of HypnoBirthing (HB), and the HypnoBirthing Institute, which now has practitioners around the world from Tokyo to Calgary. HypnoBirthing® encourages parents to be informed and to reflect on the birthing experience they desire and the environment they want to create for their baby, before, during and after labour. Mom's and their partners receive over 13 hours of education, the HypnoBirthing textbook, a spiral bound workbook, as well as audio recordings, that include affirmations and hypnosis!

Women and their partners will learn:

• How women's bodies are made to birth and how the uterus and body work together during labour.
• How fear, tensions pain and relaxation physiologically and psychologically impact what women feel during labor and delivery, and how it can impact the length of labour
• How to reach an ultimate state of calm and relaxation, in part through hypnosis, visualizations, affirmations, relaxation techniques and special breathing techniques, all which can aid in a calmer and more comfortable birth and delivery.
• Techniques for calm, comfort and confidence in and out of birth!

One study found women taking HypnoBirthing® had substantially less epidurals, IV fluids, fewer C-sections and less babies with low birth rate.

Watch the video called HypnoBirthing®: Taking the Birthing World By Calm for more information!

Click here to see a overview of what is covered in this amazing empowering course (please note the OCH HypnoBirthing® course is covered in 6 sessions vs the standard 5 sessions, allowing more time for practice, questions and a slower pace class).

Length of Course

The course is virtual and typically held over 6 weeks. Each group is over 2 hours long and often held on a weeknight. Each class builds on the other, so by the end of the 6 classes you'll understand not only how your body works during labour and birth, but you'll also have learned and practiced multiple techniques to help you reach a state of calm and comfort in mind and body. Mom's and their partner have the opportunity to experience a greater level of calm and confidence about birth every week, leading them better prepared for the upcoming birth. Each class I set aside time for questions and practice, so we aren't rushed. I also work hard to create a sense of community, it's not just a class; we have fun and support each other. My goal is to help YOU get the most out of the course and to help you feel more prepared, confident and excited about your ability to navigate your upcoming birth!

What is the cost for the group and what does it include?

The course cost $500 and includes over 14 hours of instruction, the HypnoBirthing® course book, a spiral-bound workbook with course handouts, birth hypnosis and affirmation tracks, as well as personalized tips from a hypnotherapist and extra time for practice and questions. (Check to see if your insurance company has a flex plan or covers social work services. If so, your insurance company may cover most, if not all of the course (private or group)!

Am I able to take the course privately instead of in a group?

Yes, private courses are offered. The cost of a private course is offered on a sliding scale ($2,800). Private courses include driving time/milage, personalized feedback, tips and extra time for the couple. Class times are flexible and although we'll cover all of the material, you'll also get more time to focus on the areas in the course you'd like to focus on. Some couples choose to share the cost and have a semi-private group. The course at the rate of $2,800 can be offered in your home free of cost if you live within Calgary; Covid restrictions may apply.

Do you offer private sessions after the group course?

Yes, private session can focus on reviewing and practicing techniques, hypnosis for any linger worries and areas you want to target, reviewing birth preferences and a individualized hypnosis session for birth. These sessions are eligible for insurance reimbursement. If insurance has been used up and finances are a concern, the cost can be offered on a sliding fee, ranging from $180 to $200 an hour.

Where are the group classes offered?

Group classes were offered in NW Calgary prior to Covid; they are now 100% virtual but a hybrid course is in the works.

Can the course be offered in my home?

Private classes can be held in your home free of charge if you are located in North West Calgary. The NW area includes areas like Royal Oak, Sherwood, Kincora, Sage Hill, Evanston, Hidden Valley, Coventry Hills, Panorama, Sandstone and Edgemont. If you are located more than 20 minutes outside the NW zone there is a $20 travelling fee per session.

How long is the course?

The course is held over 6 sessions within 5-6 weeks. Each class is 2.15/2:30 hours  and is full of opportunities to learn, grow, experience and practice techniques that will help you feel prepared and confident for the birth.

When is the next group?

Typically groups will be offered every 7 weeks (minus a break in the summer and Christmas break) and are held during a weeknight. Please contact Monica to find out the start date of the next group.