Swiss Ball in Labor: Literature Review Joselinda Sá de Sousa Abreu Silva

Abstract

The swiss ball also known birth ball, it is a health instrument used for the relief of pain, relaxation and acceleration of labor. In Brazil it is still little used compared to the United States, Canada, France, England and Belgium, it is performed by health professionals such as nurses and physiotherapists. This article aimed to show and describe the purpose and effects of the birth ball technique in parturients. A review of all the specific literature found on the subject was carried out, being a scarce content. The electronic bases scielo, bireme and Google Academic were consulted from October 2016 to January 2017; As well as primary sources such as books. The material was selected according to the key words: birth ball, physiotherapy, labor; Dating from 1999 to 2016. The results show that the use of the birth ball is an effective resource for alleviating labor pains, contributing to the demedicalization of the parturient, relaxation of the pelvic floor, and a decrease in the active phase of labor.