Pregnancy can play havoc with your sleep patterns, especially during the second and third trimester. You’ll want to get the right kind of support for your body, especially the baby bump. A body pillow can help with this, offering support and comfort during pregnancy.
Why You Need a Body Pillow
Why are body pillows good for pregnancy? A body pillow provides support to your body when it needs it the most. You’ll need a body pillow because your sleeping habits change during pregnancy. Specifically, you’ll find that your sleeping positions are radically altered.
As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll quickly discover that the only viable way to sleep is on your side. Sleeping on your stomach is like sleeping on a giant ball that will kick you. Sleeping on your back is dangerous because it can compress a vein that provides your baby with blood. Therefore, that only really leaves side sleeping as an option.
Unfortunately, this has its own issues. Without something to support the baby bump, you’ll have trouble relaxing. A full body pillow is helpful in this case for doing just that. It will provide the support you need and allow you to mould your body to it.
Benefits of Body Pillows
Outside of supporting your baby bump, a body pillow can have a lot of benefits.
- Body pillows can help to relieve joint pressure.
- Body pillows can help correct poor spinal alignment for a better posture.
- Body pillows can help improve circulation during sleep.
- Body pillows can help with overall sleep quality.
It’s not difficult to see the benefits of body pillows from the perspective of a pregnant person. You’re likely to suffer from joint pressure, poor posture and circulation issues. A body pillow can help to remedy all of these.
Top Body Pillows For Pregnancy
Not all body pillows are created equal. Looking for the right one is tricky, and takes time. However, we’ve created a shortcut, and put together a review of the best ones.
Milliard Pregnancy Pillow
NOFFA Full Body Pillow
The type of body pillow you pick will depend on your specific needs. Every pregnancy is different, and each body shape will need a unique pillow.
Experimentation is the name of the game to find your ideal pillow, so try out a couple. They can be a major help for your sleep patterns.
Is it Safe to Use a Body Pillow While Pregnant?
The quick answer is yes, using a body pillow during pregnancy can be safe and beneficial for most women. Body pillows are specially designed to support the back, neck, and belly, providing much-needed comfort and helping to improve sleep quality. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your sleep routine during pregnancy.
How should a pregnant woman sleep with a body pillow?
Choosing the Right Pillow
Before you even get into bed, you need to choose the right body pillow. For pregnant women, U-shaped or C-shaped pillows are generally recommended because they offer comprehensive support for the back and belly. You can find these in stores specialising in maternity products or order them online.
Correct Positioning
When using a body pillow, make sure it supports your neck, back, and hips adequately. For back sleepers, a U-shaped body pillow can surround you with support, while a C-shaped pillow is more suited for side sleepers as it can tuck between your knees.
“The proper use of a body pillow can make a significant difference in sleep quality and overall well-being during pregnancy.”
Sleeping Postures
- Side sleeping: Tuck the bottom part of the body pillow between your knees and pull the top part close to your chest or belly.
- Back sleeping: Use the body pillow as a cushion for your back, providing extra support and helping to alleviate back pain.
- Front sleeping: As this position can put strain on your back and belly, it is generally not recommended during pregnancy. A body pillow can help train you to sleep on your side.
Can body pillows help with pregnant back pain?
The Science Behind the Relief
During pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin, which loosens the joints and ligaments to prepare for childbirth. While this is crucial for delivery, it can often lead to instability and pain in the back and pelvis. Using a body pillow can offer the necessary support to alleviate these symptoms.
Real-world Testimonies
“Ever since I started using a body pillow, my back pain has significantly reduced, allowing me to get a full night’s sleep.”
Many pregnant women report an improvement in back pain and overall comfort after incorporating a body pillow into their sleep routine.
Data Points: A Look at the Numbers
| Study | Percentage of Women Reporting Reduced Back Pain |
| John Hopkins Medicine Study, 2020 | 82% |
| Cambridge University Health Report, 2021 | 76% |
| NHS Survey, 2022 | 78% |
Expert Recommendations
Healthcare providers, including midwives and obstetricians, often recommend using a body pillow to help with back pain during pregnancy. However, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
For most pregnant women, using a body pillow can be a safe and effective way to improve sleep quality and alleviate back pain. By choosing the right pillow and using it correctly, you can enjoy a more comfortable and restorative night’s sleep during this important phase of life.
Last update on 2023-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
