Dilation is usually gradual, and there are many ways to encourage it, including sexual stimulation, laughing, and using an exercise ball. Learn more here.

Whether you call it a stability ball, a Swiss ball, a yoga ball, or a birthing ball, a quality exercise ball should support the weight of your moving body, retain air, and deflate slowly if punctured.

You need to get a birthing ball that is the right size for your height. As a general guide, if you are up to 1.73m (5ft 8in) in height, use a 65cm ball, and if you are taller than 1.73m (5ft 8in ...