yoga/birthing ball

[Hibou]

My dh got me a yoga ball (birthing ball) for Christmas. I've read that sitting on it during pg helps for posture, back and pelvic aches, and for (later on) helping the baby to present head down. I used it in labor with ds, and it was great. Just wondering if anyone else uses a yoga ball during pg, and what you do with it/ how you use it.

[Mummoth]

I have one. Mostly, I just sit on it, and roll my hips around, or bounce a bit. In the third trimester with DS it was the ONLY comfortable place to sit. I HATED it in labour, though... I only wanted to walk around. Now, with a 2 year old, it's a bit... different. He thinks its a toy, and tries to bump it out from under me, by ramming it with his head... not nearly as relaxing. I gave him his own ball to play with, and he sits on it next to me (Cute!) but the ramming game is still his favorite.

[pamamidwife]

I use one as a computer chair. Very, very wonderful, as it encourages all of us that sit on it better posture!

[TurboClaudia]

I'm sitting on mine right now! And my partner tested it out the other day and is thinking of getting one instead of his cubicle chair at the office! It feels good...

warmly,
claudia
mama-to-be in late spring 2004!

[Sahara]

With my first labor I sat on the ball during early labor, and then just before I started pushing DH threw a soft blanket over the ball and I draped my upper body over it sort of modified all-fours, and had a few contractions that way - it was nice to be supported by something a little squishier than a chair.
Steph

[mamaroni]

I also use mine as a computer chair. It's great, and dh even likes it! I also bounce around on it, and the kids like to play too. I never used one for actual labor, but this time I might, since I'll be right here :)

[ebethmom]

I've often wished that I could take my yoga ball with me to orchestra rehearsals! Those hard plastic chairs are just not comfortable. I need to get mine out the basement - it has been there since we moved. I use my stepdad's often when we visit. Nothing makes my back feel better!

I didn't get a chance to use it in labor with ds. I developed preeclampsia and had to labor in bed strapped up to an IV, blood pressure cuff, catheter, fetal monitor. . .

Eeeeew - poopy 2 year old just came to find me.

[mommasuz]

Sitting on mine right now! I use it to strengthen my body and get the baby postioned properly.