What are the different types of pregnancy pillows & how to use them

There are several types of pregnancy pillows, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Each variety of pillow caters to a different set of needs. A maternity pillow should be selected after assessing and understanding the discomfort being faced. Every pregnancy is different, and so are the challenges associated with it. The type of pillow required will differ from case to case. Following are the types of maternity pillows available:

• Pregnancy wedge pillow: The pregnancy wedge pillow, also known as a maternity cushion, is the smallest of the pregnancy pillows available. This pillow can be used during or post-pregnancy. A round wedge pillow and a triangular wedge pillow are two types of pregnancy wedge pillows available.

How to use it: It can be placed under the tummy or behind the back to provide the necessary support while sleeping on your stomach or sideways. The pillow can also be used as your standard pillow. It will assist in relieving heartburn and reflux as it raises your head above average body height.

• Full-length pregnancy pillow: These pregnancy pillows are long and provide a cushion to the entire body. These pillows offer comfort to the arms and legs and support the tummy. While this type of pillow is suitable to hug and embrace, it does not provide a significant amount of support to the back. Straight full-length pregnancy pillows and flexible full-length pregnancy pillows are two types of pregnancy pillows.

How to use it: Full-length pregnancy pillows are designed to hug and cuddle. Unlike other pregnancy pillows, they cannot be placed under the tummy or behind the back. You can wrap your arms and legs around the pillow by placing your belly at the center of the pillow.

• Total body pregnancy pillows: With a height of five to six inches, these pillows are perfect for women of any height. It is ideal to be used during the second trimester as it provides immense support to the spine and helps reduce hip and back pain.

There are two types of total body pillows:

C-shaped pillow: As the name indicates, the pillow is shaped like the letter C and provides support to the head, tummy, legs, and back.

How to use it: This pillow is useful for those who like to sleep in a riding position. You can place your head on the top of the pillow and slide your back into the curve.

U-shaped pillow: The U-shaped pregnancy pillow is suitable for those who prefer sleeping on their back but cannot sleep in this position due to an increase in their belly size. It offers support to the entire body, including the tummy and the back.

How to use it: Similar to C shaped pillows, the top of a U shaped pillow can be used to rest the head and slide your body into the pillow. You can wrap your legs around one of the sides and sleep.

The pregnancy sleeping pillow is a convenient and useful accessory for women having body aches and back pains due to which getting a good night’s sleep becomes challenging.