Pregnancy ball, gym ball, Swiss Ball or even Fit Ball, whatever its name, it will become your ally throughout your pregnancy. Become an essential tool, this accessory will help you to soften you and strengthen your muscles for your childbirth.
Invented in the 1960s by physiotherapist Suzanna Klein, the pregnancy ball was created as part of the rehabilitation of patients with health problems and back pain. Over the years, its usefulness has evolved and has become a must-have accessory for expectant mothers. Yes, it can be very useful on the day of childbirth but will also allow the preparatory work beforehand. All while following the recommendations and advice of his doctor.
Using the prenatal pregnancy balloon
The birth of a child is a magical event, but it is often painful. But, the pregnancy balloon can become your new ally and will make your pregnancy more comfortable.
Initially used during yoga or pilates classes, the gym ball has found its usefulness in pregnant women. Yes, today many maternity hospitals offer the use of the balloon before and after childbirth. Very beneficial for health, fitball is an excellent way for pregnant women to relieve themselves of all types of ailments.
The Swiss Ball comes in the form of a gigantic ball made of very strong rubber. Its solidity helps support the weight of the young mother and bring her a certain balance. Made from anti-shatter materials, these balloons support all sizes and adhere to the ground very easily. You can find all materials: latex, leather, foam or rubber.
Thanks to this practical tool, pregnant women will be able to relax and control their breathing. The posture will be immediately improved and the lower back and back pain will undoubtedly decrease.
The pregnancy ball is the best way for a mother-to-be to know her body and its pain.
Did you know ? This accessory also has benefits for baby. Indeed, by the movements carried out on the ball, your little one will be rocked in its amniotic fluid.
With many virtues, pregnancy balloons will also accompany you during childbirth. The pelvis is more flexible and this will facilitate the descent of the baby.
Some mothers use this balloon to relieve all the pain and to get to know their pelvis better so as not to have to have an epidural and therefore have a natural childbirth. Also, the use of the balloon will allow faster dilation and avoid having to have a cesarean section.
That's not all, this quality accessory can also accompany you at work. It can find its use during long tiring days for moms. It should be noted that a good number of pregnant mothers replace their work chairs with pregnancy balls because this relaxes the pelvis and the muscles more easily.
Warning ! It is important to know that using the Swiss ball does not induce childbirth but will only facilitate preparation and orient the baby in the pelvis.
With its relaxing properties, the ball will offer you a relaxation worthy of a spa session. Who says healthy mom says more serene baby!
Some examples of exercises to prepare your body for the birth of a baby with a pregnancy ball
Using the post-natal pregnancy balloon
Immediately after childbirth, we tend to quickly want to find our figure! However, the body has its reasons which must be taken into account. If you don't listen, then the backlash can be painful.
This gentle gymnastic practice will bear fruit postpartum and can only be beneficial for the pregnant woman.
In order to find the line and re-educate the perineum, there are many "fitness" type exercises such as the obliques which will correct your diastasis or the pelvic floor which will allow you to strengthen your abductors and re-educate your pelvis by squeezing your ball hard between them. legs.
Another exercise that works wonderfully: the lateral supine position with one leg raised, this will facilitate blood circulation and reduce feelings of heaviness. Having a pregnancy ball is like having a permanent massage since your tensions disappear.
There are some relaxation techniques that can help make the baby's arrival easier. While sitting on the ball, you can make circular movements with your pelvis. This exercise will loosen your abdominal belt and these small movements will rock your baby who will appreciate this moment of softness.
In addition, the ball can have benefits for posture and helps relax muscles.
During pregnancy, the pregnant woman tends to have the posture a little relaxed. A real magic balloon!
Yes, the gym ball offers many possibilities and the risk of injury is minimal, as long as you don't stand on it. You should know that post-pregnancy exercises also prevent post-partum depression, a taboo subject affecting a lot of mothers.
A real fitness accessory, it will also allow you to regain your initial weight, provided you are regular in using the ball.
Using a pregnancy balloon after baby is born
Here is our selection of pregnancy balloons:
© Decathlon
A pregnancy balloon: how much does it cost?
What else do you want ? An inexpensive Swiss ball will allow you to exercise during or after your pregnancy. However, before buying your ball, it is best to take your time and get one that matches your size. The price may vary depending on the size you take. Indeed, on the market, there are balloons with a height of 45, 55, 65 and 75 cm corresponding to the height of the ball. It is therefore necessary to inflate the balloon in order to respect the maximum recommended height. Also make sure that the balloon can withstand 300kg of pressure.
Safety being paramount, you should not skimp on the quality of your ball. Yes, you can find these little gems in various stores: a sports hall or store, a childcare store or even on websites. In addition, there are products to accompany your fit ball such as pumps allowing you to inflate your ball according to your weight and size.
The price of swissballs varies and can range from 5 euros to 179 euros.