How does Hilary Erickson suggest optimizing birth outcomes with a birthing ball?

Hilary Erickson suggests several ways to optimize birth outcomes using a birthing ball. She recommends starting to use the ball at any point during pregnancy when you think it will be helpful. The birthing ball can be used to sit on, which doesn't put pressure on your tailbone, assist in stretching out lower body muscles and your back, and move your pelvis in ways that help both you and your baby's mobility.

Hilary advises against bouncing on the ball during pregnancy as it can anger the ligaments that hold your uterus onto your body. Instead, she suggests rotating your hips in a circular or figure-eight pattern, using the ball to assist in stretching, kneeling next to it, or using it as a chair if you have tailbone pain.

She also recommends using the ball on a carpeted surface when you're first starting out and doing it next to a person or an object that you can use to steady yourself.

Remember, it's important to listen to your body and use the birthing ball in a way that feels comfortable for you. Would you like to know more about any specific aspect of using a birthing ball?