GIVE BIRTH WITH BALLS - Peanut balls for labour and birth
What is a peanut ball? It is an exercise therapy ball shaped like a peanut.
The peanut ball is more commonly (not exclusively) used when mom needs to remain in bed, whether because of epidural use, labour complications or simply because mom is totally exhausted.
Usind a peanut ball may help open the inlet of the pelvis (beginning of labour) or the outlet of the pelvis towards the end of the labouring journey.
Opening up of the pelvis helps to progressing labour as it makes a way for the baby to move easily trough the birthing canal. A peanut ball is an excellent birthing tool that can help you during the first and second stages of labour, meaning that this ball may help you in dilating or opening the cervix to 10 cm. A peanut ball may also be helpful with the pushing stages of labour.
Randomized controlled studies by Tussey et al from 2011 and 2015 showed that women (including those with and without an epidural) who used a peanut ball during labour had a significantly shorter labour time and were less likely to require a cesarean section when compared to women who did not use the peanut ball.
Here are more benefits of using the peanut ball during pregnancy and delivery:
may help in reducing the duration of labour
it may shorten pushing time
it may help in engagement and position of the baby during the later stages of pregnancy
it may reduce the chance of requiring a C section
it can decrease fatigue
it can reduce the need for the use of forceps and vacuum extraction during labour
it helps the baby to get into the position for labour
One size does not fit all as there are different sizes of the peanut ball. It is important that you get a peanut ball designed for labour and find a size that is comfortable for you. Below are recommended sizes based on your height:
if you are a less than 5’ 3” inches - 40 cm is recommended
if you are 5’ 3” to 5’ 7”’ - 50 cm is recommended
taller than 5’ 7” - 60 cm is recommended
note that a 70 cm peanut ball would only work for sitting on or straddling over
There are many options for ways you can use the peanut ball during your labour. Some options are pictured here:
A peanut ball is an amazing and inexpensive tool that can help you and your partner feel more comfortable and confident in getting ready to welcome your baby.
Would like to learn more about how else we can help make your birth experience more comfortable? Contact us today and we will be privileged to help you on this wonderful journey.
In health
Beata ....
References:
Tussey CM, Botsios E, Gerkin RD, Kelly LA, Gamez J, Mensik J. Reducing Length of Labor and Cesarean Surgery Rate Using a Peanut Ball for Women Laboring With an Epidural. J Perinat Educ. 2015;24(1):16-24. doi: 10.1891/1058-1243.24.1.16. PMID: 26937158; PMCID: PMC4748987.
Tussey C, Botsios E. Use of a labor ball to decrease the length of labor in patients who receive an epidural. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing. 2011 Jun 1;40:S105-6.
