Over the course of your pregnancy, as your belly grows and your body accommodates baby’s growth, sleep becomes more difficult. Pregnancy pillows are a wonderful invention that helps a lot of expectant mamas catch some Zs by relieving your lower back and other pressure on your body. It may not help with the frequent bathroom trips, but they are still pretty comfy!
Do I need a pregnancy pillow?
Doctors don’t recommend sleeping on your back after your bump starts getting pretty big [1]. That leaves sleeping on your belly (not a chance) or on your side. For those that can’t sleep comfortably on their side while pregnant, this pillow allows them to do so.
Pillows for pregnant women are designed to adapt to the needs of a changing body. A good pillow can relieve pressure on the spine, back, and hips, as well as improve alignment of the hips, shoulders, and spine.
What are they like?
These pillows vary in shape:
U-shaped
The u-shaped pillow supports both sides of your body, relieving the neck and back. You can tuck it between your knees and under your belly. This shape offers the most support — something many expectant mothers need in their third trimester.
C- or G-shaped
These two are nearly identical. They support your whole body and relieve the stress on your spine. The difference between these and the U-shaped pillow is that you’ll have to turn the pillow every time you change lying positions.
Roller-shaped
This is just an elongated version of a traditional pillow. It supports your belly, helping your back stay flat when you place it between your knees. Unlike a U-shaped pillow, it supports only one side of your body, but it also takes up less bed space, allowing your partner to continue sleeping next to you.
How do I shop for one?
The most common filler for these pillows is holofiber. It holds its shape well, is antimicrobial, and doesn’t absorb odors. Polystyrene is also common; it also doesn’t absorb odors and is antimicrobial, but keep it away from small children and pets, as tearing up this kind of pillow will lead to a private showing of Frozen in your bedroom with all the “snow” flying around. (The loose polystyrene is also a hazard if inhaled.)
Pregnancy pillows come in a variety of sizes. Purchase for your personal comfort and the size of your bed.
