Labor Ball Page

Cleaning the Labor Balls

1. Mix 1 part bleach in 10 parts water.  Use rubber gloves and a cloth to wipe the ball, wait approximately 12 minutes and then either hose it down in the shower or wipe with clear water and a cloth.  If desirable, wear a mask while cleaning the ball to avoid the fumes.

2. Use a disinfectant solution like Lysol. Rinse the ball down well, spray with the disinfectant then let it stand for a few minutes and rinse.

Hints and Tips for Labor Balls

1. Use a chux pad or other water proof pad over the ball while your client sits on it. This keeps your ball cleaner and easier to disinfect. Its also much more comfortable for mom!

2. Invest in a ball cover (available at Cutting Edge Press) You can also buy a kit to make your own iron on Logo!

3. Most doulas keep the balls inflated all the time and use ball carrying straps to tote the balls around. It's easier than inflating and deflating the ball every time you need to use it.

4. Never keep the labor ball in a hot car, it will damage your ball. They will tend to lose air in the hot car also.

5. Considering placing a pad under the ball, to help protect it. Small punctures are the labor ball's worst enemy! Never patch a leaking Ball! Get a new one instead.

6. Consider leaving your ball with your client in her 37-38th week. She can benefit from repeated use and will not be unfamiliar with the ball in labor.

When NOT to use a Labor Ball

This section is under construction, please send your suggestions!

All the information contained in this web site is available for those to learn from and use, so long as proper credit is given if used in printed form or     otherwise outside of this site, with the exception of the Doula Notes Logo or photographs contained within this site. That includes materials submitted from others and used here as indicated by credit given.

Last Update on July 7, 1999