Birthing balls – do I need one?
Every woman should be given information of when, how and why to use a birthing ball in pregnancy and potentially labour.
The ball is an amazing resource for ALL women in pregnancy but particularly in 3rd trimester, to ease pelvic girdle pain, back pain, anchor feelings of relaxation and to promote a positive birthing position for baby.
If you have a vaginal birth you can also use your birthing ball to encourage birth and ease discomfort in labour.
After your baby is born the birthing ball can be used for mum and baby too!
Other benefits of using a birthing ball
- Offering stability and comfort so you can stay active for longer in pregnancy which reduces risk of health problems
- Developing core strength and abdominal muscles (which will also be used in vaginal labour)
- Promoting positive, calm breathing needed in pregnancy and labour
- Encouraging safe and comfortable pelvic mobility throughout pregnancy
- Placing your spine and pelvis in more favourable position to relieve discomfort
- Moving or keeping baby in an optimal birthing position, encouraging breech or back-to-back babies to move into a head down anterior position
- A more comfortable ‘seat’ to easily get on and off! Use your ball to replace your desk chair or sofa for the benefit of you and your baby
What size birthing ball should I choose?
Essentially your knees should be lower than your hips.
The NHS currently advises the following sizes:
- If you are 5’8” or shorter use a 65 cm ball
- If you are 5’9” or taller use a 75 cm ball
It is worth bearing in mind if you are around 5 ft a 55 cm ball may suit or if you have longer legs you may need to size up.
The ball should be firm not squidgy and blown up to the full size.
Where can I find a class on how to use my birthing ball?
I host a 1 hour single birthing ball session every 2-3 months. Currently this session is hosted in Chester le Street, County Durham. You can email info@bumptobabyyoga.co.uk to find out then the next session is.
There is ALWAYS an online version of the session available. You can purchase it and watch it at your convenience as many times as you’d like.
Download Online Birthing Ball Class Video
What other mums-to-be have said after they’ve been to or downloaded the birthing ball class?
“I really enjoyed it and finally I feel I can use my ball in a helpful way. I wasn’t really sure what to do with it beforehand”
“Thanks so much Jill it was really useful. I’m ordering my birthing ball tonight! The session opened my eyes, I had now idea what to expect but left feeling informed and confident”
“It was brilliant Jill! I feel great – thank you!”
“Brilliant class! I now know how to use the ball rather than just sitting looking at it. Thank you so much!”
“Loved it! Feel so good after it and it’s great to know how to use it rather than just sitting watching TV on it!”
“Thoroughly enjoyed the class. I feel better than I have in weeks! I’ve gained confidence in using the ball thank you”
“I feel so relaxed Jill and full of knowledge. I can start to use the ball properly rather than just looking at it in the corner of the room. Thanks so much, brilliant class”
