The ball...

One of the many items passed down to me was a birthing (or exercise!) ball. At first, it felt just weird to be bouncing around the living room (not really) and before I used it, I couldn't understand how it could possibly be that comfy. But seriously, try it - it's marvellous fun.

I've had quite painful backache so the ball has really helped as it helps you to sit correctly, without even thinking about it. Grandma M commented on my posture while I was sitting on the ball nattering away, and I think that's why it's just a brilliant invention. When you slouch back on a comfy sofa, your posture isn't great from the start and encourages cheeky babies round the wrong way to stay that way! However comfortable it is. But I've been sitting on the ball, doing my ironing, watching Flash Forward, and generally feeling quite content all the while rotating my hips which apparently encourages the baby to stay head down. I will miss it once little 'un is out!