By Nala Q&A with Lucy-Janes Pregnancy Care Centre
If you have been following our By Nala journey so far, you will know that Hypnobirthing played a huge role in our discovery of essential oils and the wellbeing benefits they can have during your pregnancy, birth and every day self care as a new mum.
We recently chatted with Lucy from Lucy-Janes Pregnancy Care Centre about her journey from midwife to Hypnobirthing teacher and how essential oils can support a positive pregnancy journey.
Would you like to introduce yourself and what you offer at your clinic?
Lucy Jane’s is a Private Pregnancy Care Centre based in Colne, Lancashire that was set up by myself (Lucy) & my sister Loren. I am a qualified Midwife and have worked with pregnant women and their families for over 10 years. Lucy Jane's is a modern Pregnancy Care Centre that offers parents-to-be the opportunity of meeting their baby outside of the conventional hospital setting. Our scans range from Early Scans which are done from 7 weeks, to Gender Reveal Scans and 3D/4D HD Live Scans. We offer many services that are not offered during the basic NHS Maternity Care, we provide in depth pregnancy screening such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) which is a simple blood test that can identify the risk of genetic conditions. We also help expectant mothers and their partners prepare for childbirth with Hypnobirthing, this is a full course on antenatal education and childbirth with support throughout.
What is Hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing is the use of hypnotherapy in childbirth. It works with the unconscious mind in order to facilitate changes to negative perceptions. Not only does it prepare a couple for childbirth it also includes a complete antenatal education package, it gives you the knowledge to allow you to make the best decisions for you and your baby.
As a midwife, why did you decide to train as a Hypnobirthing teacher?
I would say that I am a feminist, I think this sort of comes with the job role a midwife has. Due to this I am extremely passionate about empowering women, because of being so passionate I became really interested in different ways I could empower the women I care for. I’d heard of Hypnobirthing but I didn’t know much about it, after doing a bit of research I decided to go on the KGHypnobirthing Teacher Course, and I’m so glad I did it because the knowledge, skills and confidence I have gained from it is priceless.
Why do you think more women are choosing a Hypnobirth?
I think the health and wellness sector has boomed in the last few years, people are actively trying to live their life in a healthier and positive way. Due to this Hypnobirthing has become increasingly popular, people think it is a new phenomena when in actual fact it has been around for over 15 years. I also think the NHS lacks in providing antenatal, labour and postnatal education/advice, because of this women are seeking this information elsewhere.
Do you feel aromatherapy could support hypnobirthing and why?
Absolutely, I have recently qualified in Aromatherapy for Childbirth. I use essential oils regularly, I think they are great. They are such a natural way to assist with daily life and any struggles that may arise. I think aromatherapy and hypnobirthing go hand in hand, the aim of hypnobirthing is to try and stay positive and stress free this is where aromatherapy can help. There are so many different essential oil blends that can help to reduce stresses and promote positivity, this is why they work so well together.
What is your view around using essential oils during pregnancy?
I think essential oils can be so helpful in pregnancy, they all have different qualities and can help in different ways. Anything such as backache can be eased with a simple blend of essential oils. They are evidence based and completely safe to use while pregnant.
Would you agree there is a benefit to women using essential oils during birth?
Yes I would most definitely agree. There are essential oils that work absolutely wonders in childbirth, certain oils really do help your labour progress and help your body work effectively.
If you could give one piece of advice to help prepare for birth, what would it be?
The advice I would give is to do your research, make sure you are prepared for anything that could happen. I really do believe that ‘knowledge is power’ if you have the knowledge you can make the best decisions for you and your baby.
Also most importantly, do not let other people’s negative perceptions of their birth experience cloud your judgement. There is a lot of scaremongering in pregnancy and childbirth, for some reason everyone wants to tell their terrifying birth story. Every birth story is different so stay positive and focused on your own.
For more information on joining a Hypnobirthing course, please contact Lucy and Loren at www.lucy-janes.com
If you’re interested in using aromatherapy and essential oil products as part of your pregnancy, birth preparation and beyond, head over to our blog ‘My pregnancy well-being journey’ or shop our essential oil products here.
