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This pillow is a specially designed pillow or stuffed bolster that provides support to various parts of the body during pregnancy, especially for side and stomach sleeping. The unique c-shape or u-shape design allows expecting mothers to align the pillow along various body contours for maximum comfort. These pillows help ensure proper spine alignment and pressure relief on pressure points when sleeping. They provide adjustable lengthy support to the back, bump, hips, legs and neck.
Benefits of using a pregnancy pillow
– Relief from back pain
As the pregnancy progresses, the growing baby bump puts significant pressure on the spine which can cause severe backaches. A pregnancy pillow supports the back and maintains a neutral spinal curve, relieving pressure and pain. The full-body support reduces strain on the back.
– Promotes proper sleeping positions
In later stages of pregnancy, it becomes difficult to sleep on the back due to increased weight at the front. Pillows encourage side sleeping which is the recommended position during pregnancy. They allow you to maintain a side-sleeping position throughout the night.
– Reduces tossing and turning
Frequent shifting of positions to get comfortable becomes challenging as the belly grows. This pillow provides wraparound support eliminating the need to twist and turn in bed all night long. This allows for deeper and undisturbed sleep.
– Alleviates hip pain
Pressure on hips from the baby bump can cause pain, discomfort and restlessness at night. A pregnancy pillow places the hips, back and front in alignment taking pressure off the hips. This relieves pain and allows you to sleep through the night.
– Prevents acid reflux
Lying on the left side is advisable for pregnant women to prevent acid reflux symptoms. A u-shaped pregnancy pillow helps mothers to stay on the left side throughout the night without rolling onto the back. This keeps acid reflux and heartburn at bay.
– Minimizes swelling
Pillows help expecting mothers maintain elevation of the legs above the heart level. This aids circulation and reduces swelling in ankles and feet allowing peace at night.
– Prevents trapped nerves
As the belly grows bigger, pressure on certain nerves can leave the hands and arms tingling or numb. Specially designed pregnancy pillows take pressure off nerves preventing painful trapped nerves.
How to use a pregnancy pillow effectively
There is no single correct way to use this pillow. One has to experiment to find the most comfortable positioning according to their needs and changing body contours. Here are some commonly used placements:
– Back support – Place the pillow lengthwise along the spine for back and bump support when lying on the side. Tuck a small part behind the back or between the knees.
– Full body loop – Use a C-shaped or U-shaped pillow to enclose the entire body. Position it along the back to support the bump and between the legs for total comfort.
– Bumper – Keep a firm pillow behind the back to prevent rolling onto it during sleep. Use another small pillow between bent knees for additional comfort.
– Leg support – Place the pillow parallel under the bump to cushion the legs and spine. Or support swollen feet or calves on one end for perfect elevation.
– Wedge – For heartburn relief, place the wider end under the bump and breast and the narrow part under the back for left side sleeping.
While a pregnancy pillow takes some getting used to, within a few nights, you will not want to sleep without one. Experiment to find the comfortable placement that works best for you each trimester.
Other tips for pillow usage
– Start using the pillow early on for best sleep benefits.
– Choose the right firmness based on body comfort level.
– Place a pillowcase or cotton cover for increased hygiene and protection.
– Try different positions like on the side, back or front based on symptoms.
– Adjust the pillow as the baby bump grows through each stage of pregnancy.
– Share the pillow with a co-sleeping partner for extra comfort and support.
In conclusion, this pillow is an absolute necessity for expecting mothers. Its ergonomic design takes pressure off major problem areas providing much needed comfort, support and relief during the crucial stage of pregnancy. Make sure to commit to using this pillow from early on for undisturbed quality sleep. Discuss your pains and posture with your doctor or midwife to select the right pillow for optimal results.
