The Birth Ball
What is a Birth Ball?
The mother sits on a large, sturdy ball called a birthing ball. Her legs will be out towards the sides to help support and stabilize her.
What does a birth ball do?
Ball sitting is comfortable for the mother. It allows her some rest for her legs while still requiring movement in the pelvis. That movement helps the baby to find the best position to travel down through the pelvis and down the birth canal.
When should I use a birth ball?
The birth ball is a great option when the mother feels too tired to continue walking, but does not want to be in bed.
Ball sitting may also be very comfortable for a mother who is experiencing a lot of pre-labor, and is bored with walking or other labor stimulation techniques.
Some sample ball sitting positions:
If the mother is strong enough during contractions, she can "rock" the ball gently during her contractions to help the baby move down the pelvis.
If the mother feels too tired to prevent falling off the ball, you can hold her body to give her some extra support.
With the mother sitting on the ball, and the coach assisting in supporting her upper body, have the mother "sway" her hips side to side.
Birth Balls
You May Also Be Interested In:Read some Sample Birth Plans and get information to help put your birth plan together. Find out about ways to reduce unnecessary pain in labor. Search The Natural Childbirth Directory to find a midwife or doula to help you use natural comfort techniques in labor. Find out what normal labor is like. Review the birth plan options that may be available to you. |
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