The birth ball, once known as a simple exercise ball, has become a game-changer for labor and delivery, focusing on hip mobility and comfort!
Birth balls are excellent for providing lower back support, opening up your hips, and creating more space in the pelvis, helping the baby to settle into the perfect position for a smooth birth. To get the right birth ball size, you need to consider your height first:
- 4ft-5ft 3in, use a 55cm
- 5ft 4in-6ft, use a 65cm
- 6ft-7ft, use a 75cm
I prefer a 75cm ball because it's bouncy and versatile, even if it's slightly oversized for shorter clients. You can utilize the birth ball before, during, and after labor for various purposes. During pregnancy, sitting on the ball instead of a chair can strengthen your lower back and abdomen, providing relief for any back pain you may be experiencing. In the later weeks of pregnancy, adopting a supported squat position on the ball can help widen your hips, preparing your baby for an optimal birthing position.
Bouncing and swaying on the ball create soothing motions for the baby in the womb, which can be used after birth to calm a fussy infant. Leaning over the ball, with your knees on the floor and your torso resting on the ball, allows gravity to encourage the baby into an ideal position. This method is commonly used during labor, and you can even bring the ball into a birth tub or shower for extra comfort.
The birth ball is an invaluable tool during contractions, allowing you to bounce, sway, or perform hip circles to manage the intensity. Encouraging movement is crucial for labor progression, as remaining stationary can lead to slow, stalled, and prolonged labor, which no one wants. The birth ball promotes pelvic movement, opening, and helps the baby descend, making it an essential addition to your birthing toolkit. So, embrace the power of the birth ball and make your labor experience more comfortable and efficient!
