Kate Middleton and Hypnobirthing: What Can We Learn from the Princess’s Approach to Birth?

Let’s talk about a royal birth story with a twist. And no, I don’t mean tiaras and horse-drawn carriages. I’m talking about something much more powerful: hypnobirthing. Yes, even Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales herself, used hypnobirthing techniques during her pregnancies. And as a midwife, I think this deserves a proper spotlight.

So, pop the kettle on and let’s chat all things royal and relaxing…

Wait, Kate Middleton Did Hypnobirthing?!

Yes! In a rare interview with Giovanna Fletcher on the Happy Mum, Happy Baby podcast, Kate shared that she used hypnobirthing to support all three of her labours. She spoke about wanting to feel in control, and how hypnobirthing gave her the tools to achieve this along with manage pain and anxiety. I love the fact that during her pregnancy Kate decided to really do her homework, learn how her body works and practise ways to stay calm during labour. I truly believe that knowledge is power, and it seems the princess herself follows this mantra too.

What Is Hypnobirthing, Anyway?

Great question and if you’re new to the idea, don’t worry, I’ve got you. Hypnobirthing is a complete antenatal education programme that helps women feel empowered, informed, and confident about birth. It combines science-backed breathing techniques, visualisations, affirmations, and a good dose of practical knowledge about what’s happening in your body during labour.

It’s not about being silent or “zen” the whole time. Not the way I do things anyway. No crossing your legs and humming. It’s about understanding fear, replacing it with knowledge, and staying in control of your birth – whatever that looks like.

It’s also not about necessarily having an unmedicated birth, which is often what people associate with hypnobirthing. It covers all births and gives you information and techniques to feel empowered. Water births, caesareans and everything in between – I believe hypnobirthing is so beneficial.

(We’ve got a full blog post that goes into more detail: What Is Hypnobirthing?)

From The Palace to Your Living Room

The beauty of hypnobirthing is that it’s accessible to everyone. You don’t need a palace. You don’t need a doula, private hospital, or four maternity outfits (although I won’t lie — she rocked them all!).

I developed an online hypnobirthing course especially for you. I put all my midwifery knowledge and experience from over a decade of working as an NHS midwife. My real-life experience allows me to bridge the gap between what is being taught in hypnobirthing classes and also the realities of what happens in hospitals.

A Midwife’s Final Thoughts

As a midwife, I’ve seen firsthand how hypnobirthing transforms births — less fear, more confidence, and sometimes even shorter labours (yep, the science backs that up!).

Kate’s story reminds us that no matter who you are, your mindset can make a massive difference. And that’s why I’m such a big fan of hypnobirthing — not just for royals, but for every mama-to-be.

So if you’re curious, start here: What Is Hypnobirthing?

Because if it’s good enough for a princess…