« Return to Services Index Birth Balls Why use a Birth Ball? Birth balls have many uses throughout the perinatal period. During the pregnancy, the ball can be used to help the mom "get comfortable" when no other chair or position seems to work. By sitting on the ball, pressure is equally distributed through her back and pelvis. Sitting on the ball also puts you into a supported squatting position, which may help the baby get into a more Optimal Fetal Position. During the pregnancy, you can also use the ball to help do pelvic rocks or other exercises. During the birth, the ball can be used for various positions to help speed the labor and make it more comfortable. And in the postpartum period, moms can use the ball to sit on to support their perineal tissues to encourage healing. Moms can use the balls to get back into shape after birth. And babies can be positioned on it to be rocked by their parents (this is great for colicky or gassy babies!). Why buy a professional grade ball? There are many types of balls on the market. Many of the ones sold (like Target, Whole Foods Market, or sporting goods stores) cost $15-$30. However, most of these are not professional grade balls, not latex-free, and are not burst resistant… Therefore, I feel that they are DANGEROUS for use in pregnancy and labor! There are professional grade, burst resistant balls that are latex-free and can withstand between 600-1000 pounds of pressure (depending on the ball's size) without concern of rupture, breaking, popping, bursting. Also, these balls are designed to have a slow release in the event of a puncture-the air will go out slowly, providing the safety of the pregnant mom being able to get off of the ball without harm. Do yourself, and your baby, a favor -- buy a high quality ball. For $5-$10 more, you will have peace of mind!