The
exercise ball is known in
maternity wards as the "birthing ball" or "birth ball", and many women,
once they've experienced it, wouldn't
consider going through labor without one. It's actually just a regular
exercise ball you would find in a physiotherapy department. The birth
ball for labor is just
another method of easing the discomfort of labor. It helps keep the
pelvis moving while offering support to relieve spasms and the
intensity
of labor.
The birthing
ball for labor becomes an important
tool which can be used in different positions during maternity and can
become an
important alternative to the bed. The ball offers greater range of
movement than a chair and so allows the woman to focus on her
contractions and change positions as necessary. Being free to move can
improve blood flow to the placenta and therefore help prevent possible
fetal distress.
During
the last few
weeks of pregnancy the exercise ball is easier to get out of than a
chair and is often more comfortable.
To
sit on the ball you should place feet about shoulder width apart, keep
your chest up, and maintain the normal curvature in your lower back
(lordosis). Find your neutral position - neither hyperextended, nor
flattened. If you feel you are going to fall off the ball simply butt
it up against a wall or for even more stability, into a corner. Just
watch for sharp objects. Letting air out of the ball with also create a
softer surface and give you a bit more stability.
I
had a
patient mention to me that she uses her exercise ball to help her new
baby get to sleep. Apparently the gentle rocking motion is just what it
takes.
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