A birthing ball is a large, inflatable plastic ball generally measuring about 65cm in diameter. Although reminiscent of a children's toy, birthing balls are tools for pregnancy and labor. While birthing balls are now available in some maternity units to assist women giving birth, getting your birthing ball during pregnancy will allow you to take full advantage of the benefits it has to offer.
Pregnancy Exercise
Gently exercising on your birthing ball during pregnancy is a way to strengthen your abdominal muscles and lower back muscles. Working with your birthing ball before the onset of labor also allows you to try out and practice different birthing positions.
Comfort and Flexibility
During pregnancy and labor, a birthing ball is often easier and more comfortable to sit on than a chair or bed. Unlike a chair, a birthing ball can also easily accommodate a variety of positions, such as sitting, squatting or kneeling, a feature that allows you more options in finding a position that works for your changing body. During labor, this variety has the added benefit of allowing you to easily transition between laboring positions.
Pain Relief
Bouncing or swaying on the birthing ball can help you cope with the pain of labor. Placing a warm compress underneath your bottom while sitting on the ball can also help reduce pelvic pain. In addition, sitting or leaning over the ball makes it easier for your birth partner to massage your back or provide other physical support.
Optimal Orientation
Leaning over the ball helps you assume a hands-and-knees position, a maneuver that is sometimes recommended to help your baby move into the best position for delivery. Using the ball for this position helps reduce strain on your hands and wrists.
Faster Labor
Sitting on or leaning over the ball may help speed the progress of labor, as both positions encourage open posture and freedom of movement. Sitting on the ball also allows gravity to assist in moving the baby down into the pelvis.
Tool for New Baby
Your birthing ball can still be useful after delivery. Holding your baby while gently rocking or bouncing on the ball can help to soothe him and may be less physically demanding than trying to comfort him while standing.
Postpartum Exercise
Your birthing ball can also be used for general exercise after birth. Gently exercising on your ball may speed your recovery from childbirth by stimulating pelvic circulation and strengthening your core muscles.
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