6 of the best birthing balls 2024
WHAT IS A BIRTHING BALL?
A birth ball is a large rubber inflated ball that has a multitude of uses during pregnancy, labour, and post-birth. They are pretty much the same as a gym or exercise ball, but it’s important to buy the right size as gym balls are sometimes smaller.
How can a birthing ball be used?
During pregnancy, sitting on a birth ball is great for your posture and can really help if you have back or hip pain. Gently bouncing on the ball can improve blood flow and it can be used for some simple pregnancy exercises. While sitting on the ball, try rotating your hips in a circle or figure of 8. You could also move your pelvis from side to side and front to back. And while kneeling on the floor, lean over the ball and rock backwards and forwards.
In labour, the ball can be used in several different positions that may help open up your pelvis and allow your baby’s head to move further down. The ball can be used at home during early labour. If you then go to a hospital, most will have their own birthing balls but check first.
After the birth, you may find the birthing ball great for sitting on if your perineum is very sore. You can deflate it slightly to make the ball softer. Gently bouncing on it with your baby can be very soothing for them and can be used to help a baby go to sleep or settle them if they are crying.
When can you start using a birthing ball?
A birthing ball can be used at any time during pregnancy. Any exercises that help you to prepare for birth can be done from 32 weeks.
What size birthing ball should you get?
It’s important to get the right size and when sitting on the birth ball your hips should be around 4 inches higher than your knees.
Birthing balls usually come in three sizes: 55cm, 65cm and 75cm.
55cm balls are for those up to 5ft 4in
65cm balls are for those up to 5ft 8in
75cm balls are for those taller than 5ft 8in
what features should you look out for?
Your birthing ball should definitely be anti-burst. This means that if it is punctured it would then deflate slowly rather than burst open.
Some come with a pump to inflate the ball and a tape measure to help you get it to exactly the right size. The ball should be firm but with a bit of give when you press down on it.
Non-slip balls are extra safe to use and some have a base for the ball to sit on ensuring it doesn’t move around.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BIRTH BALLS TO BUY?
This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:
Consumer reviews
Best-seller lists
Recommendations from industry experts
Award-winning products
Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.
The list is updated annually. Last updated January 5 2024.
If you buy through a link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.
1. BABYGO Birthing Ball
This is specially designed for pregnancy and birth and is five times stronger than a regular gym ball.
Comes with a 100-page pregnancy book that includes exercises, nutritional advice and postpartum recovery information.
Includes a pump.
Made from pregnancy-safe BPA-free materials.
Available in two sizes: 65cm and 75cm.
Anti-burst and non-slip.
2. nbf Birthing Ball
Available in three sizes: 55cm, 65cm and 75cm and five colours: gold, silver, pink, mint and lilac.
Anti-burst and non-slip.
Comes with a hand pump and inflation tape measure as well as a eight page instruction booklet.
Certified to be phthalates and latex free.
3. trideer exercise ball
Comes in four sizes and five colours.
Anti-burst and non-slip.
Comes with a foot pump and a paper inflation measuring tape.
4. mind body future exercise ball chair
This exercise ball comes with a base.
It’s available in three sizes (55cm, 65cm and 75cm) and two colours: black and turquoise.
Made from hypoallergenic PVC.
Anti-burst and non-slip.
Comes with a mini foot pump, inflation measuring tape, spare air stopper plug and plug removal tool.
5. Core balance ball
Available in four sizes: 55, 65, 75 and 85cm and four colours: black, grey, teal and pink.
Anti-slip and anti-burst and made from extra thick PVC.
Comes with a hand pump and measurement tape.
Tested to ensure it is free from any harmful chemicals.
6. opti gym ball
A great value ball although it has not been specifically designed to be used during pregnancy.
Comes in three sizes.
Anti-burst.
Comes with a pump.
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