Sleeping peacefully during pregnancy: Your guide to selecting the perfect pillow.
During pregnancy, it is common to suffer back pain that increases as the weeks go by and the size of the belly grows. This is largely because of the alterations that are taking place in the anatomy of the future mother to facilitate childbirth. The increase in the flexibility of ligaments and joints is joined by a progressive worsening of the curvature of the spine that generates pain that worsens at night and ends up causing insomnia. However, you can avoid, reduce, and even eradicate this discomfort during pregnancy with the help of a good pregnancy pillow, like the eight maternity pillows that we analyze below.
Advantage
- They adapt perfectly to the anatomy of a pregnant woman.
- They allow the rest of the back, belly, hips, and legs of the future mother to grow during and after pregnancy.
- Some models avoid heartburn and much of the discomfort in the back.
- They cushion the posture of the pregnant woman and reduce her movements during her hours of sleep.
- Exponentially reduces back pain and cramps in the lower extremities.
- They facilitate the position of the mother during breastfeeding.
Disadvantages
- Not all models of pregnancy pillows have the same properties.
- Not all maternity pillows serve as nursing pillows.
Sleeping positions during pregnancy
The most recommended position is to sleep on your side, since there are different studies that advise against sleeping on your back and face down with your belly, which is very unlikely. There are even studies that recommend sleeping on the left side, such as the one carried out in Auckland, New Zealand, which ensures that women who sleep on the left side the last night of their pregnancy reduce the risk of gestational death by half compared to those who sleep on the right side.
Also, health professionals recommend the left side because the liver is on the right side of the abdomen. Sleeping on the left side helps prevent the uterus from resting on that large organ. However, it is best to ask the gynecologist.
The top 8 best pregnancy pillows for future moms
To sleep well during the blessed pregnancy period, you need to find the most suitable model for your situation. Throughout this guide, you will find the best pregnancy pillow that will help you get a good night’s rest. Are you ready? Let’s start.
PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow
A prenatal pregnancy pillow like this model could be your great ally to achieve perfect rest during pregnancy. Thanks to its flexibility and design, you can also use it postpartum as a nursing cushion or simply to cradle and sleep with your baby more comfortably.
It is a comfortable pillow with a “C” format, which adapts to the contour and figure of the mother’s body. So it helps you reduce the discomfort of pregnancy. It also offers a high-quality filler, for which it has soft, high-density silk cotton, and its hypoallergenic cover means that anyone can use it. In addition, you can wash its cover in the washing machine.
Other members of the family can also use this maternity pillow, thanks to its multifunctional design. Especially if they need body support and relaxation. If you are looking for a gift for a future mother, this pillow could be an excellent option.
Pros
- Wraps around the entire body
- 100% jersey knit cotton cover
- Conforms to front and back
- Lifetime manufacturer guarantee
- Machine washable cover
Cons
- The stuffing did get a little lumpy after several months
- Your partner can’t get close to you when you sleep
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Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow
This is currently one of the best-rated pregnancy pillows on Amazon. This is a C-shaped total body pregnancy pillow that allows you to attain the position and height that are just right for you. The Snoogle supports your back to prevent sciatica and lower back pain, tucks between your knees for help with back pain and temperature control, cradles your tummy and props up your head to aid in breathing, and helps prevent heartburn and other pregnancy pitfalls.
They make it with polyester, and it is perfect for sleeping and relaxing. To complete the package, the company also provides a custom pillowcase that you can remove for washing. You can also use it as a nursing pillow.
Even after you give birth, this pillow will come in handy. Some moms report using it when they were recovering from childbirth, while others rave about its ability to do double-duty with older babies, supporting them during bottle-feeding. Want to know more and read user reviews? Just follow the link below.
Pros
- Soft fabric
- Covers entire body
- Relatively inexpensive
- Easy to position in different shapes for best support
Cons
- You might replace your spouse in bed
- The cover is hard to get on and off
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QUEEN ROSE Pillow for Pregnancy
It is the perfect pillow for the stage of pregnancy, but you can also use it during maternity. It has a removable cover that covers the padding, and you can wash it easily to eliminate germs and bacteria from time to time. Made of excellent cotton that will give comfort at all times.
The design is adaptable, so you can use it on different occasions, whether it’s sleeping, breastfeeding, reading, or even watching television. It is ideal for lulling mothers’ bodies from head to toe and is perfect for preventing sciatica pain. You can easily wash it in the washing machine, and it does not deteriorate. In case you want to place it on the floor, it has a fold in the corners to give you more support for your back. It is ideal for relieving leg and foot pain.
Pros
- Head and belly support
- Comfortable for your back
- Two size options for more length
- Extra covers are available separately
Cons
- Large and takes up a lot of space in the bed
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Kingta Full Body Pillow
It is a product where you can find comfort during pregnancy, fall asleep, and rest more easily. It has a U-shape that adapts to the whole body and includes a pillow for breastfeeding. They make this pillow with 100% cotton, which does not generate allergies. So you can use it even after having the baby. It is ideal for relieving pain that occurs after pregnancy with surgery.
It is the perfect product for you to take a moment of relaxation, and it provides a sensation of softness. In addition, it is completely malleable and does not generate any type of noise in the face of constant movement. It includes a storage bag to keep you insulated from dust and dirt. The case features a zipper for complete closure.
Pros
- Full-body support
- Improved sleep quality
- It is also good for those who need extra support for their back, hips, or legs.
- Perfect for those with allergies
- Removable and washable cover
Cons
- Some people may find it too bulky or restrictive.
- Cumbersome to move around
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NiDream Bedding Pillow for Pregnancy
A good number of users think that this is the best pregnancy pillow since it has 100% cotton padding that gives it enough softness to make it comfortable while obtaining firmness, providing adequate support to the lower back and the belly as it increases in size.
In addition, its U-shape design achieves a better adaptation to the normal curvature of the body. You can easily find an appropriate position to sleep or rest without having to alter the angle frequently.
Thanks to this shape, it is also suitable for use during breastfeeding, allowing both mother and baby to lie down and carry out the activity comfortably.
Pros
- 360 full support
- Hypoallergenic and good for sensitive skin
- Unzips to move around and adjust the polyester fiber filling
Cons
- I went flat and didn’t have enough stuffing inside
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Naomi Home Cozy Body Pillow
The Naomi Home Cozy Body Pillow is one of the best pillows in terms of price and quality. It helps the mother to adopt a comfortable position during the last months of pregnancy, either sitting or lying, and favors a correct position during breastfeeding, relieving stress and decreasing back or neck pain.
They make this pillow with small spheres of silicone hollow fiber that can adapt to the contour of the mother’s shape comfortably, allowing both to relax in a less stressful position. It has a 100% cotton cover that protects the product from dirt and is completely machine washable.
Pros
- Full U-shape for tons of support during pregnancy
- Gusseted neck and shoulder area for perfect upper-body support
- Suitable for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
- You can also use it as a nursing pillow
Cons
- It takes up a lot of room in bed
- Tends to get flat over time
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Leachco Back ‘N Belly Contoured Body Pillow
Leachco Back ‘N Belly Contoured Body Pillow is another product that stands out for use as a pillow for pregnancy and lactation.
This best pregnancy pillow allows a comfortable and proper rest for the mother during pregnancy, especially towards the end of gestation. It provides equal support for the back and tummy at the same time. You don’t need to reposition the pillow during the night. Simply turn it from side to side. You can also use it in the first months of life, such as as support for breastfeeding, promoting correct posture for mother and child, or as a baby bouncer.
They make this pillow from cozy, warm polyester. It also comes with a custom cover case that is removable and washable. Finally, you get head support twice because of it.
Pros
- Firm but soft support
- Higher than other pillows
- Machine washable
Cons
- Large and bulky
- May be too short for taller people
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Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
It will keep you super comfortable throughout the duration of your pregnancy. This pillow for pregnancy runs along the length of your body. Simply wrap yourself around it for support. The company uses shredded memory foam in the core. It will conform to your body’s unique shape and provide support where you need it most. They make the cover from a combination of polyester and bamboo.
The result is a super-soft material that can easily circulate air through it, keeping you cool. The materials used to make this 100% hypoallergenic pregnancy pillow are great for those of you with allergies.
Pros
- Keeps spine aligned
- Adjustable fill and firmness
Cons
- Too warm for some users
- Tricky to fill to ideal firmness
Discover more and the price here
How can a pregnancy pillow help you sleep better?
Pillows for pregnant women are a very useful accessory during pregnancy since, in addition to supporting the belly, they help to alleviate back discomfort. This is because they provide a perfect fit, adapting to the woman’s body and relieving the load on the back and joints. In this way, they are also a good ally to relieve pelvic and hip pain, especially when it comes to very long pillows that reach the knees.
Its use also helps to restrict movement at night, preventing you from turning or spending a lot of time on your back. This position can double the risk of fetal death, as revealed by a study conducted by researchers at the University of Manchester. They are also a great idea to prevent heartburn and gastrointestinal discomfort caused by an improper sleeping position.
A guide to buying a pregnancy pillow and frequently asked questions
Below, we answer some of the most common questions before buying a pregnancy pillow.
What is the best way to use a pregnancy pillow?
The best way to use a pregnancy pillow is to place it under the belly and between the legs to provide support and alignment to the spine. It can also be used to support your back when sitting or as a backrest when breastfeeding.
What is the difference between a “C”-shaped and a “U”-shaped pregnancy pillow?
The main difference lies in their shape and how they provide support. C-shaped pregnancy pillows are designed to hug the body, providing support for the belly and back. “U”-shaped pillows offer more comprehensive support, encircling the entire body and supporting the head, neck, belly, and legs.
Can I use a pregnancy pillow after pregnancy?
Yes, pregnancy pillows can also be useful after pregnancy. They can provide additional support during breastfeeding, help you find a comfortable sleeping position after delivery, and serve as a supportive cushion when sitting or resting.
How can I wash a pregnancy pillow?
Most pregnancy pillows come with removable covers that can be machine washed following the manufacturer’s instructions. As for the pillow itself, some can be machine washable, while others require dry cleaning or simply spot cleaning with a damp cloth. It is important to review specific care instructions before washing your pillow.
That’s all for now, friends. This is our selection of the best pregnancy pillows for you. Have you found the best pillow for pregnancy that is perfect for you? Surely yes. Let us know your thoughts in the comments. And don’t forget to check out our selection of the best nursing bras for pregnant women. Thank you.