Refractory period (sex) after orgasm in which further sexual stimulation does not produce excitement. While the refractory period varies widely among individuals, ranging from minutes to days, most men cannot achieve or maintain an erection during this time, and many perceive a psychological feeling of satisfaction and are temporarily uninterested in further sexual activity; the penis may be hypersensitive and further sexual stimulation may feel painful during this time frame. An increased infusion of the hormone oxytocin during ejaculation is believed to be chiefly responsible for the male refractory period, and the amount by which oxytocin is increased may affect the length of
Birthing ball Birthing ball A birthing ball or labor ball is a large air–filled rubber ball (a gym ball about in diameter) that a woman can sit on during labor. A birthing ball allows the woman to rock back and forth seated on a softer surface. A woman on a birthing ball may need a support person to keep her steady. A birthing ball may be especially useful during back labor. Hospital policies on birthing balls vary, in part because the balls provide a somewhat unsteady seat, some hospitals are concerned about their safety if a woman falls during birth. It is