Recently, the "yoga ball" in the waiting room has received a lot of praise from mothers who have approved it. Sitting on it and bouncing it can greatly relieve the pain of uterine contractions and increase comfort. With great interest, what is the "yoga ball" that expectant mothers can't put it down? Let me introduce our old friend to you today~
What is a birthing ball (doula ball)?
In the eyes of mothers-to-be, the tool that looks like a yoga ball is actually a doula ball that has become very popular among mothers recently. A doula ball is a delivery ball, which refers to a large rubber ball, usually equipped with a fixed bracket. It's very comfortable to ride on.
The science behind birthing balls
Studies have shown that the traditional supine position is not conducive to the opening of the maternal pelvis, and the restriction of the position reduces the plasticity of the pelvis. The puerpera shakes in various positions on the delivery ball and the massage of the midwife has a strong stimulating effect on the pelvic floor muscles of the puerpera, which helps to open the cervix for smooth delivery.
During natural childbirth, rational use of pregnancy balls can effectively increase the rate of natural childbirth and reduce the degree of maternal pain.
Why birthing balls work
Upright positioning: Unlike lying in bed, the ball keeps you upright, allowing gravity to help baby descend.
Pelvic mobility: The ball allows for natural pelvic movement and rotation, which traditional positions restrict.
Active participation: You remain an active participant in your labor rather than a passive patient.
Comfort and control: You can adjust your position and movement to find what feels best for you.
What are the benefits of birthing balls?
So what are the benefits of pregnancy balls? Let's explore the proven advantages that make birthing balls so popular in delivery rooms worldwide.
Benefit 1: Relieves muscle tension and pain
In the stage of opening the cervix, frequent uterine contractions make the muscles of the pregnant woman's whole body tense. The use of the delivery ball can allow pregnant mothers to move independently, avoid excessive muscle tension, relieve pain, and make childbirth easier.
How it works:
• Gentle movement prevents muscles from locking up
• Rhythmic bouncing provides distraction from pain
• Active positioning gives you sense of control
• Movement releases natural endorphins
• Reduces need for pain medication
Benefit 2: Helps fetal head descent and accelerates labor
It can relax the pelvis of the pregnant mother, help the fetal head to descend, and effectively accelerate the labor process. And the pelvic space will be further expanded as the activity of the pregnant mother increases, so it can reduce the pain during childbirth.
Research shows:
• Can reduce first stage of labor by up to 90 minutes
• Helps baby rotate into optimal position
• Opens pelvic outlet for easier delivery
• Uses gravity to encourage descent
• May reduce need for interventions
Benefit 3: Promotes cervical dilation
The delivery ball increases the comfort of the mother and helps to relax the muscles of the whole body, thereby promoting the dilation of the cervix. At the same time, soft music can be played to make pregnant women more relaxed and effectively shorten the delivery time. You must know that many factors that hinder the delivery process are caused by "nervousness".
The relaxation-dilation connection:
• Stress hormones can slow labor
• Comfort and movement reduce stress
• Relaxed muscles allow cervix to open more easily
• Upright positions apply optimal pressure on cervix
• Combined with music and support, creates ideal environment
Benefit 4: Relieves back pain and discomfort
During childbirth, more than half of pregnant mothers will feel back pain. With the birth ball, pregnant mothers can adjust a comfortable posture and relieve low back discomfort through exercise.
Back pain relief techniques:
• Leaning forward over the ball takes pressure off spine
• Rocking movements massage lower back
• Partner can provide counter-pressure while you're on ball
• Changing positions frequently prevents stiffness
• Especially helpful for "back labor"
How to use the birthing ball during labor
So how to use the maternity ball? Here's a step-by-step guide to using the birthing ball safely and effectively during labor.
Step 1: Entering the delivery room
Pregnant women enter the waiting room when they have regular uterine contractions. During the waiting process, the midwife guides the pregnant women to use the delivery ball correctly.
What to expect:
• Your midwife or doula will introduce the ball
• They'll help you find the right size and inflation
• You'll learn basic positions before active labor
• Support person will be taught how to assist you
• Ball will be available throughout your labor
Step 2: Getting comfortable on the ball
Pregnant women wear loose and comfortable clothes, squat on the production ball during the interval of contractions, and perform ups and downs and side-to-side swinging movements. Through exercise, it plays an indirect friction effect on the lumbosacral region, buttocks, and vulva of the parturient, thereby relieving the pain caused by uterine contractions.
Effective movements to try:
Gentle bouncing:
• Sit on ball with feet flat and wide apart
• Gently bounce up and down during and between contractions
• Let your body find its natural rhythm
• This encourages baby to descend
Hip circles:
• Move your hips in circular motions
• Try clockwise and counterclockwise
• Helps baby rotate into optimal position
• Feels soothing during contractions
Side-to-side rocking:
• Rock your hips from side to side
• Creates gentle massage effect
• Relieves pressure on lower back
• Can be done during contractions
Figure-8 movements:
• Move hips in figure-8 pattern
• Combines benefits of circles and rocking
• Keeps pelvis mobile and open
• Many women find this most comfortable
Step 3: Full body stretching and rotation
The pregnant woman's body, waist and pelvis can be fully stretched with the rotation of the maternity ball, and it also helps the fetal head to descend, enter the pelvis and rotate, helping pregnant women to give birth smoothly. In addition, the birth ball can also distract pregnant women, increase comfort, and reduce concerns about contractions.
Advanced positions:
Kneeling and leaning forward:
• Kneel on floor (use cushion for comfort)
• Lean forward over the ball
• Rest upper body on ball
• Perfect for back labor
• Allows partner to massage your back
Squatting with ball support:
• Use ball against wall for support
• Squat down during contractions
• Maximizes pelvic opening
• Uses gravity effectively
• Great for pushing stage
Standing and leaning:
• Place ball on bed or high surface
• Stand and lean over it
• Maintains upright position
• Provides support when tired
• Easy to sway hips
Important safety precautions and contraindications
Notice: When NOT to use the birth ball
The birth ball should be used under the guidance of a midwife. The following pregnant women are contraindicated and should never use the birth ball:
Medical contraindications:
Pregnant mothers with serious complications such as:
• High blood pressure (severe preeclampsia)
• Heart disease or cardiac complications
• Severe respiratory conditions
• Any condition requiring bed rest
Pregnant mothers with pregnancy complications such as:
• Placenta previa (placenta covering cervix)
• Placental abruption (placenta separating)
• Preterm labor concerns
• Incompetent cervix
• Multiple pregnancy complications
Fetal concerns:
• The fetus has abnormal fetal heart rate
• Amniotic fluid contamination (meconium)
• Fetal distress indicators
• Abnormal fetal positioning that requires monitoring
Medication considerations:
• When drugs such as pethidine and diazepam take effect
• After epidural administration (may use with assistance)
• Any medication that affects balance or coordination
• When under influence of strong pain medications
General safety guidelines
Always have support:
• Never use the ball alone
• Have midwife, doula, or partner nearby
• Someone should spot you when getting on/off
• Keep call button within reach
Proper environment:
• Use on non-slip surface
• Ensure adequate space around you
• Remove obstacles and hazards
• Have chair or bed nearby for support
Listen to your body:
• Stop if you feel dizzy or faint
• Rest when you need to
• Change positions if uncomfortable
• Communicate with your care team
Choosing a quality birthing ball
Essential features to look for
Using Trideer's birthing ball, the material is soft, safer and non-toxic; and the birthing ball must have an explosion-proof test, and the load-bearing capacity is greater.
Critical safety features:
Anti-burst construction:
• Must be rated as anti-burst or burst-resistant
• Deflates slowly if punctured, not suddenly
• Essential for safety during labor
• Look for professional-grade balls
Material quality:
• Soft, non-toxic PVC material
• Thick construction (2-3mm minimum)
• Non-slip textured surface
• Free from harmful chemicals
• Easy to clean and sanitize
Weight capacity:
• Should support at least 300 lbs
• Professional balls often rated for 400+ lbs
• Accounts for pregnancy weight plus movement
• Provides safety margin
Proper sizing:
• 65cm ball for most women 5'4" - 5'10"
• 75cm for taller women over 5'10"
• 55cm for shorter women under 5'4"
• When sitting, hips should be level with or higher than knees
Frequently asked questions
Q: When can I start using a birthing ball during labor?
A: You can start using the ball as soon as you're in active labor and have regular contractions. Many women use it during early labor at home and continue in the hospital.
Q: Can I use a birthing ball if I have an epidural?
A: Yes, but with assistance! You'll need help getting on and off the ball, and someone should support you while you're on it. Peanut balls are especially good with epidurals.
Q: Will the birthing ball guarantee a faster labor?
A: While studies show it can reduce labor time by an average of 90 minutes, every labor is different. The ball is a tool that can help, but there are no guarantees.
Q: Is it safe to use a birthing ball if my water has broken?
A: Generally yes, but always check with your healthcare provider first. They may have specific guidelines based on your situation.
Q: Can the birthing ball help turn a posterior baby?
A: Yes! Leaning forward over the ball and doing hip circles can encourage a posterior baby (back-to-back) to rotate to anterior position.
Q: Do hospitals provide birthing balls?
A: Many hospitals now have birthing balls available in labor and delivery rooms. Call ahead to check, or bring your own.
Q: Can I use a regular exercise ball instead of a birthing ball?
A: Yes, they're the same thing! Just make sure it's anti-burst quality, the right size, and properly inflated.
Q: What if I feel too unstable on the ball?
A: Start with support from a wall, partner, or chair. You can also try a peanut ball, which is more stable. With practice, you'll feel more confident.
Conclusion: Your birthing ball companion
Birthing balls have become a beloved tool in delivery rooms worldwide for good reason. They offer a natural, drug-free way to manage labor pain, speed up delivery, and give you an active role in your birth experience.
Key takeaways:
✓ Proven benefits: Reduces pain, speeds labor, helps baby position
✓ Safe and natural: Non-invasive pain management tool
✓ Increases natural birth rates: Helps avoid unnecessary interventions
✓ Gives you control: Active participation in your labor
✓ Versatile use: Multiple positions for different stages of labor
✓ Professional guidance: Use with midwife or doula support
✓ Know contraindications: Not suitable for all situations
Whether you're planning a natural birth or just want more comfort options during labor, the birthing ball is a valuable tool to have in your birth plan. Talk to your healthcare provider about incorporating it into your labor, and practice with it during pregnancy to feel confident when the big day arrives.
Ready to add a birthing ball to your birth plan? Choose a quality, anti-burst ball like Trideer's professional birthing ball - designed with soft, non-toxic materials, explosion-proof construction, and the load-bearing capacity you need for safe, comfortable labor support.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider about using a birthing ball during labor, especially if you have any pregnancy complications or medical conditions.
