How to choose and use the right birth ball for pregnant women

Many women use birth balls from pregnancy to delivery. Although in general, a birth ball is considered safe and comfortable to use by pregnant women, but choosing a birth ball should be done carefully. The reason is, birth balls have a variety of sizes. So, how do you choose a birth ball and what should you pay attention to when using it?

How to choose a birth ball for pregnant women

There are various benefits of a large ball birth ball for mothers during pregnancy and before delivery. This ball can help reduce various complaints that pregnant women feel, such as back pain, pelvic pain, or difficulty sleeping, and can make labor easier.

Birth ball can be a tool for pregnant women to exercise. The American Pregnancy Association said that exercise is very beneficial for the health of pregnant women and the fetus in their womb. With exercise, the blood flow of pregnant women, including to the fetus, can flow smoothly.

Birth balls come in a variety of sizes and materials. To get comfortable when using a birth ball, pregnant women need to know how to choose the right birth ball for themselves.

Measure height

Basically, to be comfortable and safe when using a birth ball, your feet need to be flat on the ground when sitting on them. Your knees should also be about 10 cm lower than your hips or at least parallel to your hips.

To get the right position, you need to know how to choose a birth ball according to your height. The following are the requirements for the height and size of the birth ball that you can use as a reference:

If you are 162 cm tall or below, choose a birth ball that measures 55 cm after inflating.
If you have a height between 162-173 cm, choose a birth ball measuring 65 cm after pumping.
If you have a height above 173 cm, choose a birth ball with a size of 75 cm after pumping.

However, don't just stick with these conditions when determining the size of the birth ball you want to buy. You also need to pay attention to the conditions listed on your birth ball label, such as the recommended height and maximum body weight.

Suitable material

The next way to choose is by looking at the ingredients of the birth ball. Basically, birth balls have anti-slip ingredients so they are safe for use by pregnant women. However, not all ingredients are suitable for everyone.

Some people who are allergic to latex should avoid using birth balls with this ingredient. Use other types of materials that are also often used for birth balls, but are still safe, such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or what is often called vinyl.

Things that need to be considered when using a birth ball

Apart from how to choose the size and material, there are a few things you should pay attention to when you first use a birth ball. The following is do's and don'ts when using the ball for the first time.

Use a birth ball a few months before delivery because it can make pregnant women get used to it and can make labor easier.
Don't use a birth ball alone to prevent slipping.
If you are worried that you will slip or roll, you can put a little sand into the ball through the hole before blowing it, so that the birth ball is more balanced.
You can also use carpet underlay so that it doesn't slip and is more balanced.
Better not to use footwear, such as socks or shoes. If you want to use socks when wearing a birth ball for pregnant women, you need to choose socks that have anti-slip under them.
Before sitting on the birth ball, place your feet flat on the floor with your legs extended about 60 cm apart for balance. Then place one hand on the ball and slowly lower yourself and sit on the ball.
Once you are comfortable, put your hands on your knees and try to move your hips to different sides.
If you feel unstable when rocking or have difficulty getting up, hold on to the person accompanying you or place the chair in front of you.
When using a birth ball for exercise, do it in slow, controlled movements and breathe normally.
Stop using birth balls when you feel dizzy, sick, or uncomfortable.
Consult with your obstetrician before choosing and using a birth ball for pregnant women.