Let’s be honest, pregnancy is uncomfortable. You're creating an entire human while your internal organs shuffle around, so discomfort is generally expected. That being said, there’s no better reason to indulge in some comfort must-haves - including a good pregnancy pillow.
Pregnancy pillows come in all different sizes and shapes, some looking like scrunched up question marks with zip-off tails while others resemble body-sized pillow pets. The most important thing is finding one that works with your body and how you like to sleep. I usually recommend side sleeping and suggest getting either two pillows or one that functions as two pieces: one that sits between your legs for hip support and another that props up your bump while also supporting your back.
There's a reason side sleeping is recommended during pregnancy - it reduces some of the pressure on major blood vessels and takes weight off your lungs, giving your growing babe plenty of space. But, even if you’re naturally a side sleeper, as your bump grows thing can get uncomfortable pretty quickly. That's where your pregnancy pillow(s) come in. The one between your knees lifts and separates (does anyone else remember that commercial?) your thighs to take the pressure off your hips. The second pillow nestled against your back fills in any empty space created by your bump, allowing you to slightly recline while still lying on your side.
Rather than being trapped by your pillow, most clients report that correctly positioned pregnancy pillows actually gives them more mobility while sleeping. Instead of being locked into one position, you can lie at different angles on each side without fully waking up or shifting around from back pain. A good pregnancy pillow means the end of struggling to find a new position all night and settling for uncomfortable and poor sleep.
So yes, a pregnancy pillow may take up a decent amount of coveted bed real estate. But if pregnancy pillows provide even a little extra comfort during a time that you absolutely deserve it, I say go for it. Different shapes and styles work better for different body types and preferences, so it’s normal to try out a variety before you find one (or more) that fits like a glove and gets you one step closer to a good night’s sleep.
