Aniball

Aniball

ANIBALL for birth preparation

Using Aniball allows you to:

• practise pelvic floor relaxation with the help of breathing
• try different birthing positions to find what feels comfortable for you
• experience the pressure sensations that trigger the urge to push
• become familiar with the urge to push caused by the baby in the birth canal
• learn how to breathe your baby out naturally and gently without forceful pushing
• be less intimidated by these sensations, allowing you to act more intuitively during birth
• prepare for your birth by helping you to stay calm and trust your body

The purpose of Aniball is NOT to stretch the vagina, or the perineum.

Being relaxed, in control of your breathing and with awareness of when to relax your pelvic floor as you push can make baby’s journey into the world much easier.

The goal is to consciously learn how to relax during the sensation of pressure with the help of breathing so that during labour you can control pushing which may assist with reducing injury.

The balloon is not intended for muscle expansion and should not be used in this way.

Everything has its time – the birth canal is ready to pass the baby only during  birth itself thanks to a unique cocktail of hormones and contractions.

Always follow the instructions in the manual and listen to your own body.

Proper use of Aniball is safe for mum and baby

Birth outcomes depend on several factors – including the mother’s age, the number of previous births, the weight of the baby etc.

Aniball is designed for active women who want to help reduce their risk of birth injury as much as possible. Appropriate preparation can help increase the chance of childbirth without injury.

What is Aniball made from?

The balloon, as well as the pump, are made from high-quality biocompatible body-safe silicone. 

Some important points:

• Aniball is inflatable to adapt to your anatomy
• the purpose is not to reach the largest circumference of the balloon
• listen to your body
• focus on gradual relaxation of the pelvic floor with the help of breathing
• inflate the balloon to a comfortable size but only to the point of mild tension, not pain. It is strongly recommended not to exceed the circumference of 25 cm. (approximately 10 pumps)
• it should not cause pain or any other discomfort
• during use you have full control over the balloon inflation and deflation via the valve
• use valve to fully deflate prior to removal

How to Use Aniball Correctly*

Basic Principles:

1. Breathing Exercises
   Learn to consciously relax the pelvic floor muscles using breathing, which can help ensure a smoother passage for the baby
2. Correct Pushing
   Become familiar with the pressure caused by the baby in the birth canal and learn how to breathe your baby out spontaneously and gently.
3. Birthing position
   Practise using in different positions to find what feels most natural for you

*Read instructions supplied with device

Caring for your Aniball

• Before first use, and after each use, wash the silicone balloon thoroughly using oil-free pH neutral soap and warm water (at least 40 °C) for 1-2 minutes and rinses under running water
• Balloon can be sterilised in boiling water for 5 minutes
• Allow to dry on a clean surface before storing

A recently published study using Aniball confirmed that Aniball:

• Is safe
• Does not cause dilation of the vagina
• Can reduce risk of episiotomy by 60%
• (British Journal of Midwifery, February 2023, Vol. 31, No.2) https://www.britishjournalofmidwifery.com/content/research/investigating-antenatal-pelvic-floor-training-using-a-vaginal-balloon-device-in-czech-women

FAQ

What result do I aim for?

Balloon measurement does not reflect results. The goal is not to reach a specific circumference, but to work within a comfortable range

How often should I use Aniball?

Starting from the end of your 36^th week of pregnancy it is suggested to use 15 minutes per day

Do I have to keep increasing the size of the balloon?

No! Aniball should only be inflated to a comfortable level which should feel like gentle tension. It may take a few sessions to get used to the sensation and you do not need to increase every session. Listen to your body.

Can the balloon burst?

No. Aniball has been thoroughly tested under relevant European directives on medical devices.
Can Aniball induce labour?

Not if used as instructed during a healthy pregnancy.

Where is Aniball made?

Aniball is 100% manufactured in the European Union. The silicone balloon is a Czech product and the silicone material is made in Germany. All other components are made in the EU.

Aniball consists of:

1. Inflatable balloon
2. Mechanical pump
3. Tube
4. Connecting adapter
5. Two-way valve