The corporate case for Hypnobirthing: A calmer workforce, a stronger business
Including Hypnobirthing as part of your corporate wellbeing employee benefit
Investing in antenatal education is not just a perk, it's an investment in a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce."
Jilly Clarke
In today’s business landscape, forward-thinking companies are continuously seeking new ways to support employee wellbeing. With mental health at the forefront of many corporate agendas, and maternity care being a national crisis; is it time to go further with corporate wellbeing support, especially for expectant parents?
One approach that can help towards this crisis, which is gaining more evidence from research all the time, is hypnobirthing—a practice that not only benefits expectant parents but also strengthens the overall workforce.
Corporate wellness programs focusing on employee wellbeing are gaining momentum for their holistic approach and wide-reaching benefits for the whole workforce. By extending that offering and focusing on expectant parents, companies can create a healthier, more focused, and ultimately
stronger team at a crucial time in employees lives.
A difficult birth experience creates a difficult return to work, and can have a huge impact on employees lives. Improving birth should be at the top of everybody’s agenda.
What is Hypnobirthing?
Hypnobirthing is a childbirth education method that focuses on breathing techniques, mindfulness, and relaxation to prepare the body and mind for a calm and confident birth experience. Through thorough teaching of the science behind birth, the hormones, and the mind-body connection; it empowers expectant individuals to feel in control, reduce anxiety, and embrace the process of childbirth with clarity and ease.
Whilst traditionally viewed as a tool for parents, hypnobirthing’s principles offer broader benefits that can have a positive impact on the workplace.
Employers have a unique opportunity to help change the lives of expectant and new parents, and future generations. To have a huge positive impact on the birth outcomes of their workforce and create a stronger society.
The mental health benefits of hypnobirthing for employees
One of the key advantages of hypnobirthing is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety—two major factors that can negatively affect employees' mental health and productivity, especially during pregnancy and the family transition into parenthood.
Reducing Anxiety: Pregnancy can bring a variety of emotional challenges for employees. Hypnobirthing equips them with relaxation techniques, which not only prepare them for birth but also help manage workplace stress longer term. When employees feel calmer and more in control, they are better equipped to handle daily tasks with clarity and focus.
Evidence is increasing all the time, showing that hypnobirthing techniques can reduce anxiety. Two recent studies are linked here:
Hypnobirthing as an Effort to Reduce Anxiety in Pregnant Women: A Literature Review | Women, Midwives and Midwifery (wmmjournal.org)
Impact of Hypnotherapy on Fear, Pain, and the Birth Experience: A Systematic Review - PMC (nih.gov)
Supporting Emotional Resilience: Hypnobirthing encourages mindfulness, a skill that employees can apply both during pregnancy and beyond. By cultivating this emotional resilience, employees are more likely to manage work-related pressures effectively, leading to fewer mental health struggles and a more balanced outlook.
Many studies are starting to explore the opportunity that pregnancy, birth and early parenthood has in supporting emotional resilience and longer term health. This study from 2023 highlights
that “expectant mothers and partners, before and during pregnancy, present opportunities to build resilience, and positive mindsets to protect developing biological systems from the disruptive effects of adversity. Ostensibly, investing in accessible mental health tools will strengthen individuals and communities, but they must be engaging and enduring as well as effective.”
Time-out for well-being: A mixed methods evaluation of attitudes and likelihood to engage in different types of online emotional well-being programmes in the perinatal period - PMC
Building Confidence and Reducing Fear: Many expectant employees experience fear of the unknown, both about pregnancy, birth and the changes that come with balancing work and parenthood. Hypnobirthing instils confidence in their innate ability to manage these changes. This newfound confidence transfers to their work, where they approach tasks with greater assurance and poise.
Hypnobirthing for improved productivity and focus in the workplace
As companies seek ways to retain talent and boost productivity, offering hypnobirthing programs can have a direct impact on performance at work:
A more focused workforce: Hypnobirthing techniques like controlled breathing and visualization can sharpen focus and concentration. Expectant employees and their families who practice these techniques will transfer these skills into their professional life to better manage distractions, improve their time management, and stay engaged with their work.
Fewer sick days: Pregnancy-related stress and anxiety can often lead to increased absenteeism. With hypnobirthing, employees can better cope with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy, leading to fewer health-related absences. This not only benefits the individual but also helps maintain team productivity and reduces the strain on colleagues.
Better work-life balance: The principles of hypnobirthing encourage a holistic approach to wellbeing. Employees learn to manage their stress levels more effectively, which can result in a better work-life balance. Happier, healthier employees are less likely to burn out and more likely to remain productive and engaged in their roles.
The long-term business benefits of employee hypnobirthing
By offering hypnobirthing as part of your corporate wellness program, your company demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing, which has long-term benefits:
Higher retention rates: Supporting employees during key life transitions, such as pregnancy and the transition into parenthood, builds loyalty and reduces turnover. Employees are more likely to return from maternity and paternity leave feeling supported, leading to higher retention rates and a more committed workforce.
Stronger company culture: Companies that invest in employee wellbeing create a culture of care and inclusivity. Hypnobirthing programs not only benefit expectant employees but also show the entire workforce that mental and physical health is a priority. This fosters a positive environment where employees feel valued and supported.
Attracting top talent: In today’s competitive job market, offering innovative wellness programs like hypnobirthing can set your company apart. Prospective employees are drawn to companies that go beyond the basics of maternity leave and offer real, impactful support during significant life changes.
A calmer workforce, a stronger business
Integrating hypnobirthing into your corporate wellness strategy isn’t just about supporting expectant employees during their pregnancy—it’s about building a calmer, more focused, and resilient workforce. By reducing stress, improving mental health, and boosting productivity,
hypnobirthing can help your business thrive.
A calmer workforce means fewer disruptions, greater employee satisfaction, and a more productive environment. In turn, this makes your business stronger, more agile, and better equipped to meet the demands of an ever-changing corporate landscape.
Is your company ready to embrace the future of employee wellbeing? Consider adding hypnobirthing to your wellness offerings and watch as your workforce becomes more focused, relaxed, and loyal.
The Birth and Baby Company can help
Our on-demand antenatal courses and support programs provide expecting parents with the knowledge and confidence they need for a smooth pregnancy, birth, and transition to parenthood. Our range of packages can provide 1:1 support, regular Q&As. Crucially, all packages provide education on communication with healthcare professionals, understanding risks and options, knowledge on physically supporting themselves through pregnancy, birth and recovery, and advocating for their preferences.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your company support its most valuable asset – its people.