Choosing the best pregnancy ball can feel surprisingly overwhelming. There are so many sizes, materials, and costs available to choose from; it can be hard to know which will be the right fit for your body and your routine. A pregnancy ball, also known as a birthing ball or exercise ball, is a flexible device that numerous pregnant women use for their comfort, simple exercise, and labor preparation. The right one depends on your height, pregnancy stage, and how you plan to use it. The following guide will explain what you can expect to find, how to size it, and the safety tips you will have to keep in mind so you can shop with ease.
5 Best Pregnancy Balls for Pregnancy, Labor and Exercise
Before you shop, our guides on whether a birthing ball really helps, when to start using an exercise ball in pregnancy, and whether bouncing can break your water answer the most common questions. The following 5 balls are for various budgets and needs. Sizes and prices were taken directly from each brand's list at the time of this writing; please look at the product page before purchasing.
1. Momcozy BirthEase Pregnancy Ball Set (Birthing Ball)
Size: Sized by height, so check the size guide on the product page.
Price: $47.99
The Momcozy BirthEase Pregnancy Ball Set is our top pick as the best birthing ball for first-time moms who want guidance built in. It consists of BPA-free PVC with an anti-burst design that is intended to deflate gradually if punctured, a textured anti-slip surface, and a reinforced base. It can hold up to 330 lb and includes a foot pump to inflate it in approximately 10 minutes. Stage-based courses in the Momcozy app help if you would rather follow along than invent a routine.
2. Trideer Pregnancy Ball
Size: M, L, and XL (roughly 55, 65, and 75 cm).
Price: $33.99 for M and L, $35.99 for XL
If you prefer the printed guide to the app, the Trideer Pregnancy Ball is a great option to consider for the best birthing ball for pregnancy. It is sold in three sizes, has a pump and a pregnancy exercise guidebook, features a ribbed, non-slip, anti-burst design, and is priced at a more palatable amount than a complete guided set. The main caution is the weight rating, as different numbers are printed on the same ball, and you must double-check the specific listing that you purchase from.
3. BABYGO Birthing Ball
Size: 65 cm or 75 cm.
Price: $22.43
The BABYGO Birthing Ball suits moms who want plenty of guidance in the box. It is made from PVC that the brand says is free of phthalates and latex, and the brand describes it as five times stronger than a regular gym ball. The seven-part pregnancy book covers all three trimesters with more than 35 trimester-specific exercises, plus nutrition, labor, and postpartum recovery, which makes it a complete starter package. The ball comes in more than one size, so use the size guide on the listing to pick yours.
4. ProBody Pilates Pregnancy Ball
Size: 55, 65, or 75 cm.
Price: $29.95
The ProBody Pilates Pregnancy Ball is designed for moms who wish to enjoy a simple, pregnancy-focused ball. According to its listing, it is anti-burst PVC, 1.7 mm thick, plus a pump, plugs, and a pregnancy guide, in three sizes. If you are looking for an exercise ball for everyday use and some light exercise, it's a convenient choice for the best exercise ball for pregnancy, but it does not come with an app or video courses, so please be sure to check the weight rating prior to ordering.
5. KEEP Birthing Ball for Pregnancy
Size: 65 cm.
Price: $29.99
The KEEP Birthing Ball for Pregnancy is a heavy-duty pick and a good candidate for the best gym ball for pregnancy if you want a thick, simple ball without extras. This is offered on Amazon as a 65 cm birthing ball for pregnancy and labor, with an extra-thick 1400 g anti-burst construction and a pump provided. The listing gives a weight rating of 1,100 lbs, a manufacturer's estimate. The drawbacks are that it's one size listed, so ensure that 65 cm fits your height, and it's a plainer package, as the listing doesn't mention an app or guided courses.
What to Look For in a Pregnancy Ball
If you're looking for the best exercise ball pregnancy listings, the same few things keep appearing in every search. The following is an explanation of what each of these means in practice.
Size
The size of the ball is most important; if the ball is too small, the knees will be over the hips, and if the ball is too large, the feet will hang. The standard sizes available are 55cm for shorter moms, 65cm for average-height moms, and 75cm for taller moms, and these are approximate sizes that may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Firmness
Firmness comes down to inflation. After inflation, the material expands, and most manufacturers will suggest inflating to about 80%, letting the ball air out for a day or two, and then inflating it to the correct pressure. Use a tape measure and stop at that number.
Weight Rating
Ratings are estimates from the manufacturers and can vary from under 100 pounds up to over 1,000 pounds; some retailers may have several ratings for identical products. Pick a rating that's much higher than your weight, as bouncing can give extra power, and use it as one indicator, not an assurance.
Anti-Burst
Anti-burst is designed to be able to be punctured without bursting, so that if it does burst, you will have time to get out of the way. It is not puncture-proof, and the definition is not consistent, so avoid sharp objects, pet claws, and hot surfaces.
Non-Slip Surface and Materials
The purpose of a stability ball is to support your core, so the best stability ball for pregnancy should have a textured surface that holds onto the floor and your clothes. Search for 'BPA-free' and 'phthalate-free' phrases and for safety testing information like California phthalate and lead standards. A base ring can help to provide stability but is one more thing to store.
Pump and Extras
The pump is important as most balls are deflated. Some sets come with a guide, tape measure, or app courses; that's what makes them different from just a plain old ball.
How to Check If Your Ball Fits
Repeat after the ball has been inflated and allowed to rest.
- Rest the ball on a non-slip floor, sit in the middle with your feet flat and hip-width apart.
- Ensure that your hips are in line with or slightly higher than your knees.
- Sit up tall with a neutral back and gently rock from side to side. The balance should be firm.
- If one size fits neither, then check them both out when you're seated on them and also take into account leg length – the longer the legs, the more comfortable the larger ball may be.
If you're unsure, consult your provider or seek guidance from a physical therapist.
Pregnancy Ball Benefits: What It Does for Your Body
A pregnancy ball is not a treatment; it's a comfort and movement tool. Here is what it can reasonably offer, along with a few honest limits.
Core, Pelvic Floor, and Posture
Sitting on an unstable surface will require a little effort from the trunk muscles, and this could help you sit up a little straighter. Gentle pelvic tilts and circles are low impact, but should not be a substitute for a full prenatal routine, and any pelvic floor work should be based on your provider's recommendations.
Back Pain and Pelvic Girdle Pain Relief
As a woman's body changes during pregnancy, the center of gravity shifts, and the ligaments become softer, resulting in aches in the ligaments and back. Other mothers report that they can alleviate any strain on their lower back and hips by sitting up straight and rocking gently. This is for comfort, not a cure, and is not always effective. If your pain is severe, persists beyond a few days, or increases, get direction from your provider or physical therapist.
A Labor Coping Tool, Not an Induction Method
Many lean over the ball, rock side to side, or sit and sway when going into labor to help keep their body upright and mobile. These positions can be used as a break between contractions. Bouncing doesn't start or increase labor, and a ball does not go into labor on its own.
Everyday Comfort and Light Activity
Shortening periods of sitting time can be achieved by changing the sofa or desk chair for the ball for short periods. A minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week is recommended for healthy pregnancies, and exercise with a ball can be performed in conjunction with walking or swimming, but cannot be used as a substitute. Check with your provider if that's right for you.
How to Use a Pregnancy Ball Safely
Safety comes first, because a ball is unstable by design.
Get Your Provider's Approval First
Discuss with your doctor or midwife before you begin, particularly if you are at high risk of pregnancy, bleeding, or balance issues. For some conditions, there are recommendations not to exercise or certain positions not recommended.
Set Up a Safe Space
Use the ball on a non-slip floor, away from furniture corners and sharp objects. Wear shoes that provide support or go shoeless. Have a wall or sturdy chair to reach and someone to call on, particularly in late pregnancy when balance changes.
Keep Sessions Short and Gentle
Start with sitting, then add rocking and hip circles. There is no set time limit, and you can use a birthing ball as long as it feels comfortable and does not cause strain. Keep sessions short at first, build up gradually, and stop when it stops feeling comfortable. Skip vigorous bouncing.
Know When to Stop
Stop and call your provider if you feel dizzy, faint, or short of breath, or if you have chest pain, a headache, vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, regular painful contractions, or calf pain or swelling.
FAQ
Should You Bring Your Ball to the Hospital?
Each policy is unique, so please check with your provider or the labor and delivery unit in advance. If you can use your own ball, have it deflated and with the pump.
When to Start Using a Birthing Ball in Pregnancy
There is no one-size-fits-all answer; many moms start in the second or third trimester. Always consult your provider before taking it slow.
How Long Should You Bounce?
Many moms can do about 10-20 minutes at a time. Bounce lightly, and stop when tired, dizzy, or uncomfortable.
When to Replace a Pregnancy Ball
If it doesn't hold air, is punctured, or has cracks, bulges, thin spots, or surface damage, replace it.
Do Birthing Balls Actually Work?
For many moms, they serve as a comfort and positioning device, but there is no ball that will ensure less pain or a shorter labor. Your provider will let you know if one is appropriate for your pregnancy.
Does Bouncing on a Ball Make You Dilate?
There is no evidence that bouncing helps to open the cervix. Dilation is brought on by labor, but gentle movement can make you feel better in late pregnancy.
Does a Pregnancy Ball Help Induce Labor?
No. A pregnancy ball is not a proven way to induce labor. If you are overdue or worried, ask your provider about medically supervised options.
Is It Safe to Bounce on a Pregnancy Ball?
Many healthy pregnancies do not have a restriction on gentle bouncing, provided that the ball fits you, you are on a non-slip surface, and your provider says it is OK. If anything doesn't feel right, stop.
How Blown Up Should a Birthing Ball Be?
Try to inflate it to the diameter given on the package, in stages, and allow it to rest before adding more inflation. Hips should be level with or slightly above knees when sitting.
Is There a Difference Between a Yoga Ball and a Pregnancy Ball?
Pregnancy balls are typically thicker, anti-burst, textured, and have guides, while the shape remains the same. If there is a yoga ball available that fits and is of good quality, a regular yoga ball can do the job. The safest yoga ball for pregnancy is one that has the same safety features as other balls and is within the weight capacity of the manufacturer.
Birthing Ball vs. Peanut Ball: Which Do You Need in Labor?
A birthing ball is a round ball that is used for sitting, leaning, and rocking. A peanut ball is put between the legs, typically in bed. A 2025 meta-analysis of peanut ball use did not show a clear reduction in cesarean deliveries, but did show a decrease in the first stage of labor with epidurals. Ask your care team what your hospital offers.
Conclusion
The best pregnancy ball should be comfortable for you to use, stable under you, and convenient for your height. Begin with size and a check for a seated fit, then add anti-burst construction, a grippy surface, and any instructions that come with the set. There are courses available if you're looking for built-in classes, and the Momcozy BirthEase Pregnancy Ball Set is a good option as well; budget-conscious moms have options to choose from as well. Whichever you choose, get your provider's approval first, keep sessions short, and stop if anything feels off. A ball is a soft pain relief tool, not a cure or a means to induce labor.
