News and Information

Expectant mothers at a hospital in Greater Manchester will be able to try hypnobirthing, as part of an NHS trial. Tameside General Hospital is introducing the technique to women who want to take part. Studies have found self-hypnosis, which started in the United States, allows many women to give birth without pain, and without gas and air, it said. Women are not distracted from the pain but learn how to stay calm so their muscles relax. Full story here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-13451637...

Pain is one of the few areas where hypnosis can be applied clinically in the absence of a broader treatment framework - although hypnosis allied to cognitive behavioural techniques may well be an extremely effective intervention. A number of studies have examined the effectiveness of hypnosis in treating pain, either when used alone or alongside cognitive behavioural therapy. Pain is one of the best-researched areas - there have been a number of meta-analyses (literally a study of studies - one of the most a reliable ways to find out if there is an effect) of hypnosis for pain control. Methods of pain control Hypnotic approaches to pain relief take three forms: Direct suggestion for symptom change Dissociative approaches - encourages clients to mentally 'go elsewhere' and leave the pain behind Resource utilisation - a more Ericksonian approach Meta-Analyses Meta-analyses are essentially studies of studies. Where individual studies can sometimes show contradictory results,...