How To Use A Pregnancy Pillow

What is the correct way to use a pregnancy pillow?

1. In Front of your Bump – The most popular way to use a full body pillow. The head is rested and elevated at the top end. The knees are either side of the pillow helping to support the hips and relieve pain. The back is aligned relieving any pressure. The ankles are supported comfortably. In this position weight can also be taken off bump by the long middle section of the pillow.

When should you start using a pregnancy pillow?

When Should You Start Using One? – There’s no set time when you need to, or have to, start using a pregnancy pillow. To put it simply, you should start using one whenever you start finding it difficult to change positions during sleep. For most women, this is around week 20, when your belly starts to expand.

Is U-shaped or C shaped pregnancy pillow better?

What to Consider When Searching for the Best Pregnancy Pillows – There are many different kinds of pregnancy pillows on the market, so it’s worth familiarizing yourself with what’s available before shopping. Here are some of the best features of pregnancy pillows to consider when choosing the right one for you:

• Size. Some pregnancy pillows are downright humongous, and not everyone is lucky enough to sleep on a big mattress. If you are tight on space, with a queen or double bed, the best pregnancy pillows for you are those that aren’t curved, like wedges. Check out the compact style of the Boppy and the Hiccapop on the Pampers Parents list below, which could be great options. If you have a large bed with room to spare, go for a larger style that will provide maximum support, like the Bluestone Full-Body Maternity Pillow with Contoured U-Shape, which is the largest pregnancy pillow on the list below.
• Shape. Pregnancy pillows are available in different shapes, with the U shape being the most common. There are also C-shaped pillows and pregnancy wedges, which you place under your belly. U-shaped pillows offer comfort on both sides, so your belly and back are supported, but they can take up a lot of room on your bed, as mentioned above. A C-shaped pillow may work better for some moms-to-be, but it may not offer the same back support as a U-shaped pillow. Additionally, there are pregnancy pillows that don’t conform to either of these shapes, like the Boppy Multiuse Slipcovered Total Body Pillow, which you will see is shaped more like a comma. But if you don’t like the curved style, there’s also the log-shaped Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow, which is also one of the best pregnancy pillows for queen beds and other smaller spaces.
• Material. You’ll find pregnancy pillows made with memory foam or filled with down or a polyester-down alternative. Memory foam can provide optimal support, but some moms-to-be find it too hot. Down and down alternative pillows tend to be cooler and more lightweight, but they might not be as supportive as memory foam. Find what works best for you, but when in doubt, you might want to consider materials similar to the standard pillow you’re sleeping on now.
• Price. Some of the best pregnancy pillows are relatively cheap, but be wary of flimsy ones, as you won’t get the support you need. The most expensive pillow on our list below is the Tempur-Pedic Body Pillow, whereas the least expensive is the Boppy Pregnancy Wedge,
• Cover. Look for a pregnancy pillow with a removable and washable cover so you can clean it easily. All pillows on our list come with a machine-washable cover.

Should side sleepers use pregnancy pillows?

What to Know About Pregnancy Pillows Reviewed by on November 18, 2022 There are many discomforts that come with pregnancy, including body changes, mood swings, and unexpected pains. One unfortunate side effect is the way changes your sleep. If you’re not a side sleeper to begin with, you may have to learn to adjust, both for your comfort and for the health of you and your baby.

One tool that can help smooth that transition is a pregnancy pillow. Pregnancy pillows are specially shaped pillows that assist in sleeping comfortably on your side during pregnancy. Preliminary studies have shown that sleeping on the left side is the best position for a healthy pregnancy. This position is associated with lower rates of compared to back or right-side sleeping positions.

Back sleeping also restricts blood flow to the uterus, which can lead to low birth weights and other health problems for the baby. Side sleeping has health benefits even if you’re not pregnant, as well. Sleeping on your side is associated with healthier breathing during sleep and is a common corrective measure for sleep apnea.

Sleeping on the left side may also improve heartburn and, and it can improve gut health by using gravity to aid natural digestion. Despite its many positive health effects, side sleeping does have its drawbacks – namely, increased joint pain. While correctly positioned side sleeping can help reduce issues like lower back pain, many side sleepers experience more pain in their neck, shoulders, and hips, particularly in the side they sleep on, due to poor positioning or insufficient support.

This is exacerbated by higher weight, so the weight gain associated with pregnancy can make this even worse. Pregnancy pillows are designed specifically to help reduce the pain associated with side sleeping and to support your growing belly. They most commonly come in the form of a large body pillow that simultaneously supports your back, neck, belly, knees, and hips.

This added support mediates the pain caused by poor positioning on your side, and helps prevent the joints from collapsing or twisting during sleep, especially on softer mattresses. Although similar results can be achieved by using several regular pillows, movement during sleep can cause them to become misaligned or fall off the bed.

Pregnancy pillows, on the other hand, more easily remain in place because they’re all in one piece. They also have a unique shape that is typically more contoured to your body — in particular, your pregnant belly — than standard pillows would be. This enables them to mold to each part of your body, providing just the right amount of support.

• Pregnancy pillows can also be useful for side sleepers who are not pregnant, as they serve a similar function, minus the belly support.
• Many people find them comfortable in general, and compare them to being cuddled or spooned while you sleep.
• Pregnancy pillows come in a variety of shapes and sizes, all designed to support you in different ways.

Wedge pillows. The smallest types, known as wedge pillows or maternity cushions, are designed to be used wherever you need the most support. They’re roughly the size of a regular pillow, but are shaped like a round or triangular wedge to provide additional support.

Total body pillows. In contrast, total body pillows are the largest kind and are designed to support every part of your body at once. They come in U- or C-shapes, depending on whether you want to be fully surrounded by the pillow, or only covered on one side. They typically replace your regular head pillows, since your head and neck are supported by the topmost portion of the pregnancy pillow.

Full-length body pillows. In between these options is the full-length body pillow. This type of pregnancy pillow is similar to the generic body pillows you can buy at most stores, but it is typically contoured to accommodate your belly, and some are flexible or more easily manipulated to provide more customized support.

1. These pillows may be combined with your regular pillows since they typically don’t provide head or neck support, although they can often be positioned to do so at the expense of supporting other areas, if you prefer.
2. Within these categories, there are other variations, including cover materials, firmness, flexibility, stuffing materials, and slight differences in shape, even among pillows of the same type.

Everybody is different, and this is no less true during pregnancy. Different pillows are designed to support you in different ways. Some important features to look for include:

Support where you need it mostA washable coverA shape that conforms to your bodyA design that accommodates your sleep habits

Think about your needs when you sleep. Where do you experience pain? The pillow you choose should support those areas more. Do you frequently change position? Maybe choose a U-shaped pillow that you won’t have to adjust when you roll over. Do you already have a regular pillow you love for neck support? Choose a pregnancy pillow that leaves room for you to continue using it.

1. Do you sweat a lot, as many pregnant women do? Make sure the cover is easy to remove and clean.
2. Carrying twins? An adjustable pillow that accommodates the extra growth in your belly might be the way to go.
3. Don’t be afraid to shop around or test out multiple pillows until you find the one that makes you the most comfortable.

Proper sleep is so important, especially during pregnancy, so it’s worth the effort to find the best pregnancy pillow to help you get your best possible night’s rest. You use a pregnancy pillow much like you would use any other supportive pillow. Depending on the shape and style you choose, position the pillow to support the areas you experience the most pain.

With a C- or U-shaped pillow, for example, it may help to place your head on the portion at the bend in the U (or the tail of the C), wrap your arms around the middle, and place the end between your knees. With a U-shaped pregnancy pillow, you can also place the other leg of the U against or under your back for additional support.

With smaller pillows, like wedge pillows or full-length body pillows, place them where you most need support. You may be able to combine them with additional pillows to achieve the desired level of support. Pregnancy pillows can continue to be useful after delivery. © 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. : What to Know About Pregnancy Pillows

Are pregnancy pillows worth it?

They can relieve aches and pains – As you gain weight and change shape during pregnancy, a supportive pillow can support your back, hips and legs, reducing the aches and pains that can dog pregnant women. If you have pelvic girdle pain in later pregnancy, a pillow can help you to stay comfortable while lying on your side.

How many pillows should you sleep with when pregnant?

Tips on comfortable pregnancy sleeping positions – Not used to lying on your side? Or always been a side-sleeper — but can’t seem to get any rest now that you’re expecting? Here are a few tips to tackle pregnancy sleep problems and get yourself comfy sleeping in the side position:

Use lots of pillows. Try crossing one leg over the other and putting one pillow between them and another pillow behind your back — or any other combination that helps you sleep. Get a special pillow. For extra support, try using a wedge-shaped pillow or a 5-foot full-body pregnancy pillow, Prop yourself up. If pillows don’t help, try sleeping in a semi-upright position in a recliner (if you have one) instead of the bed.

Keep in mind, it’s normal to feel uncomfortable for a few nights or even a few weeks. Your body will most likely adjust to a new position given time.

Is 6 weeks too early for a pregnancy pillow?

When Should You Start Using a Pregnancy Pillow? – There’s no hard and fast rule of when to start using a maternity pillow – it’s all about you and your comfort. But most experts recommend women start using one in the second trimester. This is when your tummy starts growing, and sleeping in your usual positions becomes more uncomfortable.

You’re not getting enough sleep. It’s difficult to change positions in bed. Conditions such as heartburn, sleep apnea, or cramps keep you awake. You’re worried about rolling onto your back. You’re waking up with more aches and pains.

Should pregnancy pillows be soft or firm?

Other factors to consider when buying pregnancy pillows – Of the many different types of pregnancy pillows on the market, each offers something unique that can be beneficial to sleep during pregnancy. The one you ultimately pick will depend on your preferences, but there are a few things to consider when choosing a pillow for pregnancy:

Material: Most pregnancy pillows will come with a cover, which can be available in a variety of materials from lightweight cotton to plush velvet. If you run warm when you sleep, Dr. Wetter recommends choosing a pregnancy pillow with a cotton cover instead of one made of polyester, which is less breathable. Shape: There are three common pregnancy pillow shapes: J-shaped, C-shaped or U-shaped, and the once you chose “may depend on how much support you need,” says Dr. Wetter. C-shaped pillows curve to tuck under your head and between your knees, while J-shaped pillows run parallel to your body with one curve that can either go under your head or between your knees. Or, if you often switch the side that you sleep on during the night (and plan to continue doing so, even as your bump makes it difficult), you might opt for a U-shaped pillow that you won’t have to readjust every time you move. You can also try a smaller option, such as a pregnancy wedge pillow to use under your back for added support without taking up a ton of space. Fill type: Most pregnancy pillow fillings are made from polyester and designed to hold their shape. However, just like a regular pillow, you may prefer a fill type that is more or less firm. Firmer fills like memory foam may offer increased support, but some people prefer a softer fill, like down, that can be snuggled and squished against the body more easily.

Why do you put a pillow between your legs when pregnant?

5. Can Provide Support for Pregnant Women – When you’re pregnant, getting comfortable at night can be seriously tough. Doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid sleeping on their backs and instead favor sleeping on their sides. Pregnancy can also come with discomfort like restless legs syndrome, lower back pain, and joint pain in the knees.

Why are pregnancy pillows so big?

Product Details – Best Overall Sweet Zzz Body Pillow Fill: 100% down alternative fibers

• 1. Taller pregnant people who enjoy using a body pillow
  2. Hot sleepers
  3. Shoppers who prefer to buy and use sustainably sourced products
• 1. Down alternative clusters encased in organic cotton make the pillow exceptionally soft and moldable
  2. 54-inch length ensures the pillow can accommodate most sleepers
  3. Very little heat retention

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Sweet Zzz pillows The Sweet Zzz Body Pillow is soft, moldable, and extra-long. A length of 4.5 feet ensures even exceptionally tall people can lie comfortably with the pillow tucked between their knees.

• The fill consists of down alternative clusters that mimic the plush, lightweight feel of real down without triggering allergy symptoms or using animal-based materials.
• An organic cotton shell encases the fill.
• This fabric has earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, ensuring the cotton is sustainably grown and harvested.

An organic cotton liner separates the shell from the fill. This component allows you to wash and dry the shell in household machines without needing to launder the down alternative fibers. Since the fill retains very little heat and the organic cotton is highly breathable, the pillow shouldn’t sleep excessively hot – a major draw for pregnant sleepers who tend to feel warm or sweat while they sleep. Best Value Buffy Cloud Body Pillow Fill: Recycled PET fibers

• 1. Hot sleepers
  2. People with sensitive skin
  3. Eco-conscious shoppers
• 1. Breathable lyocell shell and fiber fill cushion the body without absorbing excess heat
  2. Each pillow uses roughly 73 recycled bottles
  3. Sateen weave makes the cover feel smooth and silky-soft

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Buffy pillows The Buffy Cloud Body Pillow is an affordable option that uses the same naturally breathable design that’s made the brand’s standard Cloud Pillow so popular with sleepers.

The fill consists of PET fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. This material mimics the natural softness and airiness of cotton. A shell made of moisture-wicking lyocell fabric encases the fill. The cover has a luxuriously smooth hand-feel thanks to its sateen weave. The pillow measures 4.5 feet long, making it ideal for pregnant people who enjoy sleeping with a pillow tucked between their legs as well as those who experience frequent back pain.

The fill weighs 88 ounces, so the pillow is lightweight and easy to reposition as needed. Buffy recommends using an additional cover to keep the pillow hygienic and dry cleaning whenever it becomes dirty, as its size will likely be too large for most household washing machines. Most Comfortable Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

• 1. Side sleepers
  2. Those who have found other body pillows too hot
  3. Pregnant sleepers with lower back pain
• 1. Smooth velvet cover glides gently across the skin
  2. Cotton fiber fill retains less heat than foam
  3. Ergonomic design cushions the stomach and alleviates pressure in the lumbar region

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Momcozy pillows Pregnancy can alter your body’s thermoregulation, causing you to overheat and sweat in bed even on colder nights. The Momcozy U-Shaped Body Pillow is a great option for any hot sleeper, pregnant or not.

1. Fill consisting of fluffy cotton batting promotes airflow without retaining too much warmth, especially compared to other pillow materials such as down, memory foam, or latex.
2. Another cooling component is the cover made of smooth, breathable polyester velvet.
3. The pillow uses an ergonomic design to support your entire body.

A gentle curve cushions your stomach, while the back features a small protrusion intended to reduce pressure in your lumbar region and hips. The bottom of the pillow forms a small hook for tucking between your knees. While designed for side-sleeping pillow snugglers, the pillow is thick enough to provide decent support for your head and neck while lying on your back. Best for Back Pain Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow Fill: Shredded memory foam and down alternative clusters

• 1. Those experiencing upper or lower back pain during pregnancy
  2. Hot sleepers
  3. Anyone who enjoys sleeping with an exceptionally long body pillow
• 1. Plush yet supportive fill consists of shredded foam and down alternative clusters
  2. Adjustable design lets you choose between U, J, or C shapes
  3. Breathable organic cotton cover encases the fill

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Newton Baby pillows Back pain and pregnancy often go hand in hand, but choosing the right pillow can help alleviate your discomfort. The Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow measures 55 inches long and features an ergonomic shape that contours to your back, stomach, and hips.

With a fill blend consisting of shredded memory foam and down alternative clusters, the pillow feels soft yet adaptive. Thanks to the detachable extension, you can sleep with the pillow nestled against your front and back, or remove this component and opt for a J shape. You may also feel comfortable with the extension tucked between your legs — this can reduce pain in the lumbar region.

A breathable organic cotton cover gives the surface an exceptionally soft feel. Since a separate liner contains the fill, you can remove and machine wash the cover whenever a cleaning is needed. The Pregnancy Pillow is competitively priced and Newton Baby offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Softest The Company Store Essentials Feather and Down Body Pillow Insert Fill: 95% feathers, 5% down

• 1. Those who enjoy sleeping with a body pillow tucked between their legs
  2. People who experience lower back pain during pregnancy
  3. Shoppers with limited budgets
• 1. Feather and down fill blend creates a plush yet supportive feel
  2. Shell composed of durable cotton twill
  3. RDS certification ensures ethical and humane animal treatment

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on The Company Store pillows When it comes to pillow construction, softness and support don’t always go hand in hand. The Essentials Down and Feather Body Pillow Insert from The Company Store finds a nice compromise between these two qualities.

This is thanks to the pillow’s fill, which consists primarily of feathers that provide plushness without compressing too much beneath your weight. A small amount of down adds extra softness. The pillow measures 72 inches in length, making it longer than average and suitable for anyone who feels more comfortable sleeping with a pillow between their legs.

A shell made of smooth, long-lasting cotton twill encases the fill. Although the pillow is technically machine-washable, it may be too large for washers with agitators and other household appliances. You can purchase a pillowcase or protector separately to safeguard the insert from stains, dust, and contaminants, which in turn reduces the need for frequent cleaning.

The feathers and down fill holds certification with the Responsible Down Standard, an organization that certifies brands for ethical and humane treatment of all animals that produce the down. In addition to below-average pricing, the Essentials Feather and Down Body Pillow Insert qualifies for free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S.

Your purchase is backed by The Company Store’s lifetime guarantee, which permits returns and exchanges at any point past the delivery date. Best for Spinal Alignment MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow Fill: Shredded memory foam

• 1. Pregnant sleepers who struggle maintaining healthy sleep posture
  2. People who wish to customize their pillow’s loft
  3. Those who prefer to mold their pillow
• 1. J-shaped design supports the body when side sleeping
  2. Adjustable fill allows you to customize pillow loft
  3. Shredded memory foam core contours to the body to help relieve pressure points

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on MedCline pillows The MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow has a unique J-shaped design that can provide extra support and reduce pregnancy-related discomforts.

Snuggling with the pillow helps promote healthy spinal alignment while reducing pain in the lower back and shoulders. The pillow has a polyester shell, which is removable and machine-washable for easy care. Shredded memory foam in the core offers cushioning for pressure points while staying quite moldable.

Two sizes are available. The foam fill can be added or removed to adjust the pillow’s loft up to 5 inches for the small model and 6 inches for the medium model. The small model measures 45 inches long and is intended for adults who are 5 feet 1 inch or shorter. Best for Side Sleepers Bearaby Cuddler Fill: GOLS-certified Melofoam

• 1. Side sleepers
  2. Hot sleepers
  3. Eco-conscious shoppers
• 1. Breathable organic cotton cover
  2. GOLS-certified Melofoam latex supports the body when side sleeping
  3. Machine-washable cover

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Free shipping across the contiguous U.S. Many doctors recommend that pregnant people sleep on their sides, which can often lead to pressure points in the shoulders and ships. The Bearaby Cuddler’s long, tubular shape is designed to help support side sleeping while alleviating pressure.

A breathable, organic cotton shell encases the pillow. The cover is removable and machine-washable for easy care. The core features GOLS-certified organic Melofoam latex that cradles the body to relieve pressure points. Meanwhile, the 7.5-inch profile ensures that your body stays on an even plane when sleeping on your side.

The pillow measures almost 7-feet long, making it a great option for taller sleepers seeking a product for full-body support. You can choose to upgrade the pillow to include a Cuddler Cover, which is available in five color options. Bearaby offers free shipping on all orders over $50, which covers the Cuddler. Best for Hip Pain Back Support Systems Body Pillow Fill: Shredded memory foam (Good), shredded foam and fiber blend (Better), shredded latex (Best) Firmness: Medium, Medium Firm

• 1. People who tend to sweat in their sleep
  2. Those looking for a body pillow with multiple design options
  3. Value seekers
• 1. Available in straight and J-shaped designs
  2. Three fill options to suit your personal needs and preferences
  3. Cover made of breathable, moisture-wicking bamboo-derived fabric

Sleep Foundation Special Offer Shop Back Support System pillows with 20% off sitewide + free shipping. Use code SF20 Some body pillows are straight and ideal for snuggling, while others have ergonomic shapes to provide lower back and hip support. With the Back Support Systems Body Pillow, you can choose between both options.

The oblong pillow measures 52 inches long, while the slightly longer J-shaped pillow is designed to cushion your hips or fit between your knees. Both provide enough loft to elevate your head and reduce pain in the neck and shoulders. Three fills are available, each with a unique name. The “Good” fill consists of shredded memory foam that feels squishy and highly adaptive.

If you upgrade to “Better” fill, it will feature a blend of shredded memory foam and down alternative fibers for a distinctly softer feel against your body. Pillows with the “Best” fill contain shredded latex, which provides gentle cushioning and also has a lengthy expected lifespan.

While the fill names reflect their increasingly higher price-points, none of the pillows are particularly expensive compared to other competing models. The cover is made of viscose derived from bamboo, a breathable fabric with moisture-wicking properties and a luxuriously soft hand-feel. You may remove and machine wash the cover whenever it needs to be cleaned.

You may also purchase a replacement cover. Back Support Systems offers worldwide shipping with rates based on package weight. You may return unopened pillows within 30 days for a full refund, but opened or used pillows are considered personal care items and may not be returned.

• 1. Side and back sleepers
  2. Shoppers seeking a pillow with an adjustable loft
  3. Expectant moms who want a luxury option
• 1. Shredded latex fill retains its shape
  2. U-shape can be used in a variety of ways
  3. Fill is designed to relieve pressure

Sleep Foundation Special Offer SleepFoundation.org Readers get 20% off with code SF20 The Yana Sleep Pillow has a comfortable combination of support and pressure relief that expectant mothers may find beneficial. Though it has a higher-than-average price-point, shoppers looking for a durable, high-quality pregnancy pillow may find the Yana Sleep Pillow a worthy investment.

The Yana Pillow has a U-shape that’s flexible and can be used in multiple positions. Side sleepers can rest in the middle of the two arms so that they’re supported on both the front and back of their bodies. People suffering from knee or lumbar pain can position the arms to rest beneath those areas for added support.

The pillow’s fill is crafted from shredded latex, which is known for its durability, responsiveness, and pressure relief. Latex is typically a suitable option for those who want to alleviate discomfort from pressure points but prefer a surface that has slightly more bounce than memory foam.

Sleepers are able to add and remove the latex fill as needed to create a comfortable loft level. Hot sleepers should find that this pillow stays cool throughout the night, thanks to its latex fill and bamboo-derived cover. Users can machine wash the cover, though the pillow’s 16-pound weight means it’s too heavy for a washing machine and should only be spot cleaned.

Shoppers can return unopened pillows within 30 days of purchase to receive a full refund. A pregnancy pillow is a sleep accessory designed to support the changing bodies of expecting mothers, help them attain a comfortable resting position, and get more sleep.

• Pregnancy places a great deal of strain on the body, especially as the pregnancy progresses.
• Additional weight often stresses the back and joints, including the hips, knees, and ankles.
• This can cause aches and pains that make getting a full night’s rest difficult.
• Pregnancy pillows are specifically designed to accommodate the contours of the pregnant body and provide support where it’s needed most.

These pillows can be found in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate each sleep position and help prevent aches and pains. The most common types include C- and U-shaped full body pillows that provide support to the entire body, and wedge pillows that can be used to strategically support a single area like the midsection or back.

Why can’t I sleep on my right side while pregnant?

Background – Many physicians advise pregnant women to sleep on their left side. Previous studies have linked back and right-side sleeping with a higher risk of stillbirth, reduced fetal growth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia, a life-threatening high blood pressure disorder that affects the mother.

Researchers have hypothesized that, with these sleep positions, the increasing weight of the uterus during pregnancy could compress the aorta (the central artery conveying blood to the upper and lower abdomen) and the inferior vena cava (the central vein returning blood from the lower abdomen to the heart).

The authors of the current study note that many of these earlier studies included a small number of women. Moreover, most asked women about their sleeping positions after the stillbirth or other complication. This raises the possibility of recall bias—that women who had a complication may unintentionally overemphasize a sleep position because they thought it could be responsible for the complication.

When should I stop lying on my back when pregnant?

What is the new evidence on maternal sleep position in late pregnancy? – Going to sleep in the supine position (on the back) in late pregnancy is a recently identified and modifiable risk factor for late stillbirth. New research shows that women can halve their risk of stillbirth by going to sleep on their side from 28 weeks pregnancy compared with sleeping in the supine position.

Is it too early for a pregnancy pillow?

When should I start using a pregnancy pillow? – A pregnancy pillow can be used at any time you are feeling in need of a little extra support or a better night’s sleep. During the second trimester many women might feel they are ready for a little extra support as they start to feel those first aches and pains – although some may want to start using a pillow sooner.

What if I accidentally sleep on my back while pregnant?

What happens if I roll over onto my back in my sleep? – The best guidance is to create a sleep situation where you feel comfortable and supported sleeping on your side. Again, pregnancy pillows can help with this! But if you do end up rolling over onto your back while sleeping, try not to stress too much.

Many that ending up on your back here and there throughout the night should not be harmful to your baby. If you find yourself most comfortable on your back while sleeping, you can try a semi-reclined setup using a wedge pillow. This will keep you up at an incline that should mitigate the weight of your bump pressing against your vena cava.

It will also make it easier to breathe and can reduce heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.

Can I lay on my back when pregnant?

Key Takeaways – To prevent complications, people should avoid sleeping on their backs after 20 weeks of pregnancy—but don’t worry if you accidentally wake up on your back sometimes. The ideal pregnancy sleep position is on your side.

Can my boyfriend lay on my pregnant belly?

What sex positions should I avoid during pregnancy? – Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, there’s almost nothing that’s off-limits. By the second trimester, you’ll want to steer clear of any position that puts weight on your belly, like your partner lying directly on top of you or you lying on your stomach, and anything that keeps you on your back for too long.

Can I lay on my stomach at 6 weeks pregnant?

Pregnancy pillows – During pregnancy, a person sleeping on their side should keep their knees bent at a comfortable angle and place a thin, soft pillow between their knees to reduce lower back stress. A pregnancy pillow shaped like a crescent can offer support to the arms and knees alike.

1. People with heartburn can also try putting a pillow under their upper body to raise it slightly to reduce the risk of reflux.
2. During late pregnancy, people experiencing shortness of breath may also benefit from lying on their side or having pillows propping up their upper body.
3. Elevating the legs slightly with a pillow may also help individuals with leg swelling or pain.

It is generally safe for people to sleep on their stomach during pregnancy, although it may be uncomfortable and cause back or neck pain. Research suggests that it is safe for people to sleep in whichever position they prefer until around 30 weeks of gestation.

Why can’t I sleep 6 weeks pregnant?

Insomnia in early pregnancy – Early pregnancy insomnia is primarily caused by the shift in hormones and the symptoms women experience as a result, such as nausea, vomiting and increased urination. All of this disrupts the body’s regular sleep and wake cycles, Mustaleski says.

Can I sleep on my back while pregnant?

Can I sleep on my back when I’m pregnant? As your belly grows, sleeping on your back may not be good for you. It puts the weight of your uterus on your spine and back muscles. In the second and third trimesters, lying on your back may compress a major blood vessel that takes blood to your uterus, making you feel dizzy and possibly reducing blood flow to your fetus.

• Sleeping on your side during your second and third trimesters may be best.
• Eep one or both knees bent.
• It may help to place a pillow between your knees and another under your belly.
• You also can try a full-length body pillow for support.
• Published: January 2021 Last reviewed: January 2021 Topics Copyright 2023 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

All rights reserved. Read, This information is designed as an educational aid for the public. It offers current information and opinions related to women’s health. It is not intended as a statement of the standard of care. It does not explain all of the proper treatments or methods of care.

Can I sleep on my right side while pregnant?

What are the best sleep positions during pregnancy? – It’s often recommended that you sleep on your left or right side during pregnancy. However, some experts say it’s okay to sleep in whatever position is most comfortable. You can ask your doctor or midwife for their recommendation on sleeping positions to decide what’s best for you.

From the What to Expect editorial team and Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You’re Expecting, What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial policy,

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How do you position a pillow for a pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy Massage Positioning – Why It’s Important – Our Knox Remedial Massage Therapist, Leanne, explains what our mummas need to know about Pregnancy Massage. Pregnancy Massage- what to look out for Many mothers-to-be think that to get a good massage, they need to be lying face-down and expect to be lying in a pregnancy pillow or a table with a pregnancy hole.

1. In reality, these systems are usually designed for use by physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths, where the pregnant client is lying face down for a maximum of 10-15min, not for hour long massages.
2. Specially designed pregnancy pillow systems can be used up until 25 weeks but therapists must use caution and it should not be used for longer than 20 minutes.

Therapists must ensure that there is sufficient support of the pelvis and that there is no increase in lumbar lordosis. Extra towels and padding must be used to pad up the belly cutout depending on the depth required for the client. Why does position matter? Lying face down while pregnant can actually aggravate the discomforts of pregnancy.

According to Carole Osborne, author of Pre- and Perinatal Massage Therapy, p utting pressure on the lower back while lying face down can increase intrauterine pressure, shorten the muscles in the lower back and increase strain on the ligaments, which maintain the correct position of the uterus and support the pelvis.

As your pregnancy progresses the breasts will enlarge and some women may notice an increase in sinus pressure. Lying face down will put additional pressure on the chest and sinuses. For all of these reasons, I prefer to do all of my pregnancy massages in the side lying position. What are the benefits of a side-lying position? Catherine McInerney, Director of Pregnancy Massage Australia, recommends the side-lying position as the safest option for massage during pregnancy. The side lying position offers a number of positive physical and psychological benefits for both mum and baby.

This position puts the muscles in the lower back into a relaxed position, gently lengthens the spine, reducing the effects of lower back pain whilst supporting the abdomen. It also reduces strain on uterine ligaments and prevents increase in sinus pressure. A sidelying, fetal position is a very soothing, comfortable position, one in which most people sleep, so it is very calming physically and psychologically.

When side-lying the therapist has easy and safe access to all areas of the body in order to treat those aches and pains commonly experienced during pregnancy. So what does a side-lying massage look like? To ensure the safety and comfort of both mother and baby you will start lying on your left hand side with your head on a firm pillow.

1. This will keep your head and neck in alignment.
2. You will be given a small wedge shaped pillow to put under your abdomen to support the growing uterus and prevent twisting and straining of the uterine ligament and lumbar spine.
3. Next, a pillow will be placed between your legs and your legs will be put at a 90 degree angle.

This allows the pelvis to stay in alignment, reduces pressure on the lumbar spine and provides the legs with even blood flow. Finally a small pillow or rolled towel will be placed under your upper arm to support the breast area and prevent rotation of your shoulders. Leanne, our Remedial Massage Therapist and mother of two, has undertaken further training with Pregnancy Massage Australia and obtained her Certificate in Pregnancy Massage to ensure our mums and their little ones are in safe hands. Call or book online today.