Many women love to use birthing balls, especially in their final trimester to relieve pain, stress, and is a comfortable way to exercise.

There are a few basics about using a birthing ball that are helpful to know. First of all, a quality birth ball will cost between $30 - $50. You can find them for less, but it is my recommendation that you avoid them. Why would you want a cheap one that could get damaged, begin to wear out, and eventually pop or busrt? If you are going to get one, get a good one that you can feel safe and comfortable in using.

Most birthing balls will range in sized depending upon your size. As you can see from the photos above, you don't want too small of a ball, or too large. You need to get one that is according to your height so that when you use it, it is just right for you. Balls range in size, typically, between 50 - 75 cm. A size chart that we recommend is this: If your height is 4'8" to 5'3" get a 55 cm birthing ball. If your height is 5'3" to 6'0" get a 65 cm birthing ball. If your height is 6'0" to 6'7" get a 75 cm birthing ball.

Safety should be your number one concern. As previously mentioned, get a sturdy ball that is "Burst Resistant." If it isn't burst resistant, do not buy it. Don't worry about the price when it comes to buying a birth ball that needs to support you without the fear of it popping and having you land on your bottom or your stomach. Safety is #1. Also, make sure you get some kind of a guide, birth ball exercise DVD, or something so you don't find yourself rolling off. You will need to know proper inflation and how to use it.

You can always find one at a sports store or possibly at a maternity store. I know of several women who found theirs on Amazon. They like the brand, Fitball® One feature that Fitball has is a "slow deflation" if it would ever get punctured. This way there is no danger to you. You pretty much get your choice of color and size with Fitball.

Here is a recommendation, before you buy one, that others have to say as well. If you are almost in between with the size chart above, then choose the larger size birthing ball. You can always deflate the ball a little bit to make it more your size and comfortable. Making it too small and you will not feel the real benefit of using one. I am 5'2" and I went up to the 60 cm ball. It was much better, especially in the 3rd trimester when you tend to carry a little more baby weight.

Finally, don't think that buying a birthing ball is just for your pregnancy. Many moms continue to use them after their baby is born to excerise, bounce their baby one while sitting on your lap, and more. Fussy babies enjoy being held while mom or dad gently bounce on the ball.