Finding the Right Pregnancy Pillow
Written by: Perry Nichols
Pregnancy Women Need Quality Rest
Pregnant women need as much quality rest and sleep as they can get to handle the many changes their bodies are going through. But often times, the last half of the pregnancy makes it rather difficult to get that quality rest while still being comfortable. Between the frequent trips to the bathroom, the backaches, and the kicking baby, it's a wonder pregnant women get any sleep at all, let alone any real restful sleep.
Pregnancy Pillows
Luckily, there are several types of pregnancy pillows to choose from to make sleeping a bit easier, each with different comfort features and benefits. A pregnancy pillow can be a special, ergonomically designed pillow, or can simply be a large, oversized body pillow that provides support from the neck to the knees. These pillows come in a variety of fabrics and materials, designs, colors, and shapes.
Pregnancy Wedge
This type of pregnancy pillow is wedge-shaped and is used when lying on the side. These pillows can also be used when in a semi-reclining position, which is great for reading or watching television in bed, and most pregnancy wedges are made from fire-retarded foam.
Maternity Pillow
Most pregnant women prefer to sleep on their side, which is why the maternity pillow is a popular choice, particularly during the last trimester of pregnancy. This style of pillow is actually two adjustable pillows connected together by fabric. With velcro tabs, the pillow can be adjusted to offer support for both the belly and the lower back.
U-shaped Pregnancy Pillow
These pillows come in varying sizes and are unique in that they offer support on both sides of the body. Oversized u-shaped pillows are large enough to span the length of the body, support the legs, and keep the back properly aligned. This type of pillow is also helpful for those who find themselves tossing and turning during the night.
Body Pillow
As their name suggests, body pillows offer full body support and are usually four to five feet long. These pillows contour to the body's changing shape, providing comfort in addition to the support. Body pillows are filled with different materials, some softer or firmer than others, which would merely be a matter of personal preference.
Look for a quality-made pillow that will retain its shape with frequent use, and remember that these pillows aren't just for growing bellies, but also for keeping the spine, legs, and hips supported as well. Unfortunately, a sore back often accompanies pregnancy, but by using some type of pillow when sleeping or resting, pressure on the lower back is relieved along with supporting the stomach.
There are many pillows with hypoallergenic fills for those with allergies, and natural cotton is a comfortable material for the outside of the pillow, especially during the summer months. Some pregnancy pillows also have removable covers that are machine washable.
Experts Recommend Sleeping on Your Left Side
Regardless of the type of pregnancy pillow you decide to use, experts recommend sleeping on your left side while pregnant for a few important reasons. While sleeping on the right may not cause any real harm, the left side does allow for better blood flow, and may also help the kidneys operate more efficiently. During the latter half of pregnancy, most women are advised not to sleep on their back, which puts all of the weight on the uterus, as well as the spine and back muscles. Sleeping on the back may also cause a decrease in blood pressure in some women, while others may experience an unsafe increase.
