birthing balls & exercise balls

LaBellaVida

Are these the same thing, but called different names?
I've got an exercise one at home and I feel like I would pop it.
I've seen other balls and they feel much thicker, and better quality, and I'm thinking they are 'birthing' balls.

Anyway, my hips have been hurting, so I'd like to use one. .. Plus I'd like to use one during labor.

Anyone know if there are actual differences between the two?

Kayanne87

As far as I can tell, they are the same. My childbirth class instructor said they were the same thing, too. Some brands/stores just have better quality balls than others. I was also told my hospital had birthing balls for patient use and you may want to check on your hospital (if you're planning on going to a hospital).

LaBellaVida

Thanks. I actually found my answer via more googling. Yes, they are the same, but like you said some are better quality.

I think I'm gonna get a better one. I'll check target tomorrow and maybe Walmart. If not I found one on Amazon with great reviews.

Thank you!

Mrs_Bennett

Yup, I think they're the same like the PPs said. I've been sittin on mine for several weeks now, and it's definitely helped with hip pain. Good luck!

AggieMom0809

It's not even the better quality that makes them birthing balls. I used the one at the hospital and it helped a ton. I didn't use one with my first because I knew nothing about them much less that the hospital had one on hand. It wasn't until I told one of the nurses that it felt better to be moving around than laying in bed that she offered it to me. I will be asking to use it early on this time.

It was the same brand as I had at home, but the smaller one. Apparently their average patient is a lot shorter than I am so they only had the smaller ball. It never felt like it was about to pop from my fat butt. 

shannjohnston

I love having one.  My hips are usually super sore once I get home from work, so I sit on the ball instead of the couch.  Does a world of good!