All kinds of trends come and go when it comes to labor. When I was first approached with this idea six years ago, that is exactly what I thought the peanut ball was going to be – a trend. Now, six years later, I am a firm believer in the peanut ball. I have utilized this birth tool, along with positioning techniques, to aid in a stalled labor, change a baby’s position, and even prevent a C-section! So, what is this amazing tool?

The birthing ball has been used to help with labor pain and progression for quite some time. There isn’t really any positioning that goes with it, but it has proven to aid in labor. The problem with the birthing ball is it becomes useless if the laboring woman decides to get a labor epidural for pain. At that point, she becomes unable to get out of the bed. Imagine a birthing ball, but in the shape of a peanut!

There is your peanut ball! The appeal of the peanut ball is primarily the ability to utilize it with a labor epidural. Nurses assist patients with the placement of the ball, as well as which position would work best for the baby’s position and the dilation of the cervix.

The peanut ball is placed in between the legs in various positions to assist with different stages of labor and positions of the baby. Most commonly, the patient is positioned laterally with one leg underneath the ball and the other on top of it. The positions are changed regularly, every 30-45 minutes.

The use of the physiology of labor is not a new concept, but using this ball along with frequent position changes is a relatively new concept. Frequent positions utilized are hands and knees, sitting straight up, and using a stirrup for a “runner’s position." The peanut ball puts a different spin on things because it is designed to open the pelvis and assist with the descent of the baby, as well as promote dilation.

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There is information all over the internet, all you have to do is google it. I have personally taken classes from the Peanut Ball Lady. I would encourage you to check out her Facebook page. Whether you are a patient or a birthing professional, this information can be beneficial to you. You can find videos on You Tube, along with other social media platforms.

Jamie Prock, RN-BSN, is an OB Nurse currently practicing within the Indian Health Service.