Pregnancy is a journey which is filled with excitement, eagerness and, let's be honest, a fair share of discomfort as well. While the first few months of this journey flow like a breeze, your body slowly undergoes numerous changes to support the growing life within you. At a point when even finding a comfortable resting position becomes increasingly difficult, a maternity pillow can prove to be very handy in alleviating the discomfort. This comprehensive guide will explore everything about pregnancy pillows, from their benefits and varieties to the right way to use them effectively.
Why use a pregnancy pillow?
As your baby bump grows, sleeping on your stomach becomes impossible. Even sleeping on the back or on the side can leave you tossing and turning throughout your sleep. This is why pregnancy pillows are designed to provide comfort and support to your changing body to ensure your body gets all the rest it deserves. Whether you are in your first trimester or nearing your due date, pregnancy pillows are made specifically to support your back, belly, hips and legs.
Benefits of pregnancy pillows
1. Ache and pain relief
Pregnancy pillows can help with your back pain by supporting the spine and relieving pressure on the lower back. They can also help with your hip pain by aligning the hips and legs. Pregnancy pillows are also proven to reduce pelvic discomfort by supporting the belly and reducing pressure on the pelvic area.
2. Better sleep
Pregnancy pillows are designed to support your entire body while providing you with a comfortable position to sleep. Maintaining a position for longer is essential for having fewer interruptions in your sleep, and a rich deep sleep is absolutely necessary for the mom and the baby alike.
3. Increased circulation and reduced heartburn
Pregnancy pillows are helpful for sleeping on your side. This is good, especially on your left side, because it improves blood flow to your heart and keeps you and your baby healthy. Using a pregnancy pillow to prop up your upper body can also help you avoid heartburn and acid reflux, which are common issues during pregnancy.
Types of pregnancy pillows and their uses
1. C-shaped pillow
As the name suggests, these pillows are in the shape of the letter C, so they can provide comprehensive support to multiple body areas at once. These pillows can comfortably cradle the head, back and pelvic region at the same time. This makes them perfect for women who need extra support along the spine. The design also helps reduce back pain by maintaining a comfortable spinal alignment.
2. U-shaped pillow
The U-shaped pillow offers full-body support and is specially designed for people who twist and turn a lot while sleeping. This is because it can provide support to both sides of your body and helps position your neck, back, belly and legs perfectly. It can be used by placing the head in the curve of the “U” and bringing the arms of the pillow to extend along your body. This way, you can maintain a comforting alignment that relieves pressure points and reduces the need for frequent adjustments.
3. J-shaped pillow
A “J” shaped pregnancy pillow is a versatile option that offers substantial comfort without taking up a lot of space. Since it is shaped like a "J,” it can support the head, neck and belly if placed in front, while supporting the back, pelvis and the legs when placed behind. The curve of the pillow can also be used to position the head, and the extended portion can support your growing belly while sitting.
4. Wedge pillow
Wedge pillows are small, triangular pillows that can provide targeted support for specific areas of the body. These can be placed under the belly to support the weight or prevent you from rolling to your back when sleeping. These pillows are highly versatile and can be used in conjunction with other pillows for added support. They are also compact and portable, making them ideal for traveling or additional support while sitting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pregnancy pillows are more than just a luxury, as they are an essential investment for your health and comfort during pregnancy. We at Laadlee understand this, which is why we strive to provide new moms with the best maternity pillows and baby products they can find online. Get your hands on our eco-friendly and BPA-free products today, to ensure the safety and comfort of you and your baby.