Welcome to the world of birthing balls! 🔵
Your ball has arrived, you've taken it out of the package, and now you're wondering, "What do I do next?" Don't worry—we've all been there! But you're in the right place. We're here to walk you through everything step by step, so you can get the most out of your birthing ball.
⬆️ Inflating your Birthing Ball ⬆️
What You'll Need:
☑️ BABYGO® Birthing Ball
☑️ Pump (standard or electric)
☑️ Measuring Tape
☑️ Plug
☑️ Plug Remover
Step One: Unpack and Unroll.
Remove the birthing ball and accessories from the box and plastic packaging. Allow the ball to reach room temperature—this will make the material more flexible and easier to inflate. Set aside the pump and small bag of accessories, as you'll need them shortly.
Step Two: Preparation is Key.
Once the birthing ball has warmed up, you can start inflating it. First, locate the ball plug (a small plastic pin that seals in the air) and keep it within reach for later.
👣 Foot Pump:
Attach the hose to the blue inflation nozzle on the pump.
🔋 Electric Pump:
Unpack the electric pump and connect the pin nozzle to the inflation port (positioned on the side).
Step Three: Time to Inflate.
For accurate inflation, use a tape measure and insert the pump nozzle into the correct size hole—options include 55cm, 65cm, or 75cm.
👣 Foot Pump:
Begin pumping with your foot (or hands if preferred). This method takes longer, so if you have someone to help, now’s the time to call them in!
🔋 Electric Pump:
Using the switch - turn on the pump, sit back, and let it do the work.
Step Four: 80% of the Way.
Inflate the ball to about 80% of its full size, then insert the plug. Let the ball rest for a few hours (or overnight) to allow the material to stretch.
‼️ Please be patient during the inflation process—it takes time, but the ball will fully inflate. Stay persistent and follow each step carefully for the best results! ‼️
Step Five: Let's Reach the Max.
After the resting period, remove the plug and continue inflating until the ball is firm but slightly pliable when you sit on it. Secure the plug to keep the air in.
Step Six: Time to Test.
Sit on the ball and check your posture:
✔ Your knees should be slightly lower than your hips, forming a 90-degree angle.
✔ If your hips are too high, release some air.
✔ If your hips are too low, add more air.
Keep adjusting until you find the perfect fit. You may need to top it up occasionally, so keep the pump nearby. It's completely normal for the ball to still have crease and fold lines once fully inflate, these will fade with use.
Step Seven: Good to Go.
You’re all set! If you used the foot pump, you’ve earned a break—but once you sit on your birthing ball, you might never want to get off!
⬇️ Deflating your Birthing Ball ⬇️
If you're wanting to deflate the birthing ball for storage or travelling - don't worry! It's as simple as 1,2,3.
Step One: Remove the Pin.
Using the plug removal tool, remove the pin from the ball and allow the air to begin to escape. You can allow the ball to slowly deflate, and then add pressure the ball in time to release the air, or you can help this along using the pump provided (foot/electric).
Step Two: Pump it Along.
Let's have a helping hand from the pump;
👣 Foot Pump:
Pop the hose onto the red nozzle and begin pumping this to allow to air to escape the ball.
🔋 Electric Pump:
Connect the pin nozzle to the deflation port (positioned on the top) and turn the pump on to begin the deflation process. Sit back and relax.
Step Three: Fold and Pack.
Once the ball has deflated, begin to fold and wrap the ball tightly. You will notice more air escaping from the ball as you fold this away. Pack away correctly and store at room temperature. Keep the accessories stored alongside the ball so you have a complete pack for next time.
⚠️ Safety First ⚠️
To ensure both your safety and your baby’s, keep these important guidelines in mind when using your birthing ball:
Surface: Use your ball on a flat, non-slip surface for added stability. Avoid smooth or slippery floors.
Footwear: Exercise barefoot or wear non-slip socks or shoes to prevent slipping.
Hygiene: Dry your hands before use to maintain a firm grip. Clean the ball regularly with warm water and a soft cloth to prevent germs. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the material.
Liquid: Wipe up any spilled liquids immediately to prevent slips and ensure a safe surface.
Condition: Inspect the ball before each use for any signs of damage, wear, or deflation. Replace the ball if it shows signs of deterioration.
Limits: Do not exceed the recommended weight limit of 1000kg. If you experience pain, discomfort, or any unusual symptoms, stop using the ball immediately.
⁉️ Frequently Asked Questions ⁉️
Let's answer all things birthing balls. Many women can simply inflate and off they go, but there are a few key factors that many people are left questioning.
What should I do if i'm missing an item from my Birthing Ball?
If you open your birthing ball and notice that something is missing, don’t worry—we’re here to help! Simply reach out to us at help@babygo.uk, and one of our friendly team members will arrange a replacement for you. Use the checklist below to make sure you have everything you need.
Box Contents:
✅ 1 x BABYGO® Birthing Ball
✅ 1 x BABYGO® Pregnancy Book
✅ 1 x Foot Pump
✅ 1 x Tape Measure
✅ 2 x Ball Plug
✅ 1 x Ball Plug Removal Tool
What size birthing ball do I need?
We offer three birthing ball sizes; 55cm, 65cm and 75cm.
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55cm – Best for people under 5'1" (155cm)
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65cm – Ideal for people between 5'1" and 5'10" (155–178cm)
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75cm – Best for people over 5'11" (180cm)
What size birthing ball do I need?
Our birthing ball is crafted from a hypoallergenic, BPA & phthalates free material. This makes our ball skin friendly and perfect for using postpartum with your little one.
How firm should the birthing ball be?
The ball should feel firm but still have a little give. You should be able to apply pressure and press into it slightly with your hand.
How do I know if my birthing ball is the right height?
When sitting on the ball, your knees should be slightly lower than your hips, creating a comfortable sitting posture. This is the ideal position when using the ball, to ensure you're using the ball at a safe height.
Is it safe to use my birthing ball during pregnancy?
Absolutely! Birthing balls are designed to safely support your weight while improving comfort, posture, and preparing your body for labour. Our birthing ball includes a specially designed pregnancy book, packed with expert advice, trimester-specific exercises, and practical tips to help you navigate common pregnancy challenges. Whether you're using it before, during, or after pregnancy, this ball is your go-to tool for a smoother, more comfortable experience.
Can my birthing ball burst?
Crafted from high-quality materials, our birthing ball prioritises your safety with its anti-burst design, giving you peace of mind during use. This feature means it will slowly deflate rather than pop if punctured. You should always check for damage before using your birthing ball.
Can I use my birthing ball after pregnancy?
Of course! Our ball is great for postnatal recovery, helping to improve posture, strengthen core muscles, and even relieve tension. Many people also use it to gently bounce or rock their baby to sleep while holding them. Just make sure you're comfortable and check with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns during your postpartum recovery.
When should I start using a birthing ball?
You can start using a birthing ball at any stage of pregnancy, but many women find it especially helpful in the second and third trimesters to improve posture, relieve discomfort, and prepare for labour.
Can a birthing ball help induce labour?
While a birthing ball won’t directly induce labor, sitting, rocking, and bouncing on it can help encourage your baby to move into an optimal position and may help stimulate contractions naturally.
How do I clean my birthing ball?
Wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they may weaken the material.