How to use a pregnancy pillow correctly

Why do you need a pregnancy pillow? Women expecting the birth of a child need to take care of comfortable sleep in advance. The larger the belly becomes, the more difficult it is to choose a position in which to rest comfortably. At such times, a pregnancy pillow comes to the rescue. This is a necessary accessory, the existence of which many girls did not even suspect before pregnancy.

Why is it necessary

When deciding why you need pillows for pregnant women, you must remember that this is not a simple whim. Doctors are sure that during the period of bearing a child you need to use a special device.

What is the functionality of this pillow:

• allows the pregnant woman to choose a comfortable position for resting, reading, eating, watching TV;
• reduces the load on the body. The effect is especially necessary starting from the second trimester. During this period, the stomach becomes very rounded.

How to use the device:

1. As a support for the lower back, loaded legs, rounded sides.
2. Under the belly. It is necessary to reduce discomfort in this area to a minimum.
3. To reduce the load on the spine. The weight when using the pillow will be distributed evenly.
4. When the baby is born, the pillow will remain needed. Mothers use the accessory during feeding and make it into a comfortable playpen that prevents the baby from falling out of the crib.

After the baby is born, the device is needed for:

• easing the load on the back muscles when feeding. Very convenient if the newborn eats slowly;
• forming a safe play “nest”;
• feeding twins;
• helping the child when he learns to sit.

Maternity pillows differ from regular models in their cover, shape, padding, quality, and price.

When making a choice, it is worth studying each aspect in detail.

Types of pillows

The modern market offers a wide variety of models of pregnancy pillows that can satisfy any needs. But in order for the expectant mother to be truly comfortable with her new acquisition, there are many nuances to consider before purchasing. First, you need to find out what exactly causes the main discomfort: if pain appears locally in one or two places, it makes sense to opt for a small pillow that will be convenient to place directly under the stomach or between the knees. For those who have problems falling asleep or quality of sleep due to unpleasant sensations throughout the body, a full-length pillow is suitable, which will help reduce the load on the spine as a whole.

It should be of good quality, tightly padded and with a smooth finish. When trying to bend or fold the pillow, the filling should not move or clump together. The hardness of the product is also important - the pillow should support the weight of the expectant mother, without allowing her knees or stomach to come into contact with the mattress. In addition, it is better to buy pillows with removable pillowcases that can be easily cleaned or washed.

One more important question remains: how to choose the right pillow shape so that it meets the needs of the expectant mother? To do this, first of all, you should get acquainted with all existing options, studying in detail their pros and cons.

U-shaped, or “Horseshoe”

Based on its name, this pillow is shaped like a horseshoe and is rightfully considered one of the most popular models designed specifically for pregnant women. It has a special recess for the head and support rollers on the sides, so the expectant mother may have the feeling that the pillow is simply “hugging” her from all sides. It is universal, so it can be used both day and night, supporting the stomach and back, and evenly distributing the load on them. Another important advantage of this product: when changing the position of the body during sleep, such a pillow does not necessarily need to be turned over, which means that sleeping on it will be comfortable, like in a cocoon. But when choosing a U-shaped pillow, you should remember its impressive dimensions, that is, it is unlikely to be suitable for a narrow sofa or single bed. In addition, women who like to sleep in the strong arms of their man should not buy the “Horseshoe”, because it will be quite difficult for him to overcome the barrier of support rollers.

"Bagel"

Maternity pillow Bagel
This is an equally popular model that also envelops the expectant mother’s body completely, allowing her to choose from easing the position of her back, head or abdomen, depending on which area she experiences the most discomfort. This pillow copes well with muscle tension, and thanks to its more compact shape, it is suitable for a bed of any size. But there are also some disadvantages: when turning over from one side to the other, you will have to do the same with the Bagel, otherwise the roller will rest on your stomach, and the main load will be transferred to your back.

G-shaped, or “Snail”

This relatively new model on the market has already firmly taken one of the leading positions, winning the sympathy of both expectant and established mothers. You can place it under your stomach or head, lean your back on it, and even wrap your legs around it. “Snail” helps to get rid of tension and relax not only at night, but also during the day, supporting all muscles at once and evenly distributing pressure on different parts of the spine. In addition, a special extension, thanks to which the pillow is shaped like the letter “G”, provides additional support for an expanding belly. But, despite all the advantages, before purchasing such a product it is worth taking into account several important points: the “Snail” has an impressive size, it will have to be turned over, changing the position of the body, and the special “tail” may not be suitable for everyone, even getting in the way in certain poses sleep at night.

C-shaped, or “Banana”

Banana Pillow
If an expectant mother uses a pillow of this model, she does not have to worry about her stomach or back being left without support - at night the “Banana” will allow you to sit comfortably on your side, and during the day it will help you relax and rest in a semi-sitting position. In addition, such a product takes up relatively little space, and is especially convenient for women who, even during pregnancy, do not refuse to travel or work trips. Pillows of this shape do not have any significant disadvantages, so they rarely cause negative reviews from their owners.

"Big"

This model has special support rollers for the head, front part of the body and back, which allows you to fix the most problematic areas in a comfortable position, making the expectant mother’s day or night rest truly comfortable. In addition, the “Big” pillow has the advantage of being compact in size, suitable for any bed and does not take up much space during transportation. But if you’re not used to it, it can cause discomfort in the cervical spine, so women who have problems with this area are better off choosing a different type of model.

L-shaped

L-Shaped Pillow
This is a long cushion with a rounded top that fits your head perfectly. It is one of the simplest, but at the same time the most versatile models, which can be folded as desired and used even on small beds. L-shaped pillows not only relax the muscles of the back and legs, but also stimulate blood circulation, although they provide support for only one half of the body, which means that it will have to be turned over periodically during sleep.

I-shaped, or “Roller”

This is a simple and at the same time the most affordable model, distinguished by its compactness and versatility. It is inexpensive, but at the same time allows the muscles to rest and relieves the spine, especially its cervical region. It is a long straight cushion that you can hug from the front or lean on with your back. But due to the lack of support specifically designed for the head and neck, you will have to use a regular pillow in parallel.

Recommended sleeping position

Recommended sleeping positions for a pregnant woman vary depending on the current trimester.

First

In the first three months the baby is very small. The expectant mother can sleep as comfortably as possible without discomfort. She doesn't have to worry about possible harm to the baby.

In the early stages, other worries come forward: constant toxicosis, hormones, fatigue, strong psychological stress, fear for the upcoming months of pregnancy, childbirth.

During this time, you are allowed to rest on your stomach. The pelvic and pubic bones protect the fetus from any pressure. The only inconvenience is the high sensitivity of the mammary glands.

Second

Quite a quiet time. The symptoms of toxicosis disappeared, and the psychological state returned to normal. Most of the difficulties are related to sleep.

The child begins to grow a lot. The uterus enlarges and extends beyond the pubic symphysis.

There is a risk of putting pressure on the baby, although it is protected by the fat layer and amniotic fluid. Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended. The best option is the left side. If you can’t lie in one position all the time, you can periodically change it to your back or right side.

Third

The uterus enlarges more. You need to stop sleeping not only on your stomach, but on your right side. The fetus puts pressure on the mother's internal organs. This can cause stagnation in the right kidney, causing pyelonephritis.

There is also no need to sleep on your back. The uterus presses against the spine, pressing on the inferior vena cava. An obstacle to the free flow of blood appears, venous stagnation begins. What this can lead to:

1. Hemorrhoids will develop.
2. Varicose veins will appear.
3. Blood will flow into the placenta intermittently.
4. There will be pain in the lower back.
5. The digestive process will be disrupted.
6. Blood pressure will decrease. Nausea, dizziness, and weakness will occur.

The only correct position is on the left side.

To ensure comfort, you need to place a special pillow under the knee of your right leg. At this time, it is bent, and the left one is straightened.

This removes some of the load from the pelvis. There will be no swelling in the legs.

Sintepon

Typically used as a filler for budget pillows. Odorless, hypoallergenic, pleasant to the touch, easy to care for. Unfortunately, the padding polyester wrinkles too quickly and loses its shape.

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Benefit for health

Why a special pillow is necessary and good for health:

• it serves as an auxiliary tool for gymnastics. Many women place it under themselves during exercise;
• foot roller. Pregnant women experience swelling and varicose veins. They need frequent foot massages as well as complete relaxation. To relieve fatigue, you can put a pillow;
• eliminating tension from the lumbar spine. Placing a device under your back is necessary to completely remove pain;
• for work. If the expectant mother works while sitting or, for example, does needlework, she needs a device with a supporting effect. An additional use option is as an armrest.

Features of choice

To make the right choice and not throw money away, you need to follow a few simple rules.

1. Never choose pregnancy pillows based on photos - it’s better to try each model in an orthopedic store. This will help you choose the perfect pillow shape, size and softness.
2. When purchasing, carefully consider the seams of the product and the uniform distribution of the filler.
3. Give preference to models with removable covers made of natural fabrics - they are much more convenient and hygienic to use.

Recommended filler

You need to choose from two filler options:

• expanded polystyrene;
• holofiber.

The first is a filler consisting of small balls. It is safe, parasites, fungi and other harmful microorganisms do not multiply inside. Advantages of pillows filled with polystyrene foam:

1. Weightlessness.
2. Hypoallergenic.
3. Environmentally friendly.
4. Moisture-repellent properties.
5. Does not absorb odors.
6. Lasts a long time.

Products with polystyrene foam padding are easy to wash and dry. The only negative is the high price.

Holofiber is small hollow fibers glued together at high temperatures.

Pros:

1. Hypoallergenic.
2. Environmentally friendly.
3. Moisture-repellent properties.
4. Shape retention, springy surface.
5. There are no parasites growing inside.
6. Odors are not absorbed.

Forms

The shape of pillows is one of the main criteria when choosing products. Their form almost completely determines functionality.

Possible applications

How to use the pillow:

• unfold it in a way that is comfortable, completely customize it for yourself. Place under the stomach, side, between the legs;
• fold, twist in different directions, choosing a shape that allows you to fully relax;
• after the birth of the child, use it for feeding;
• For a grown-up baby, the product will be an excellent barrier that ensures safety.

Proper use of a pillow will help a woman sleep soundly at night and feel great during the day. This is very important not only for her health, but also for the baby who has not yet been born.

C-shape

They are also called “bagel pillow”. In shape and functionality, it almost completely repeats the shape of a horseshoe-shaped pillow, but has smaller dimensions - 130 by 90 cm. It can also be used as a nursing pillow.

The main disadvantage of the form is that when you turn over to the other side, you will also have to shift the pillow, which is inconvenient for those women who are used to tossing and turning in their sleep.

Popular manufacturers

Among domestic manufacturers, one can highlight the company BioSon . They are sewn according to anatomical patterns and undergo careful selection and control by regulatory authorities. Pillows of all common shapes are available for sale. You can choose your favorite model yourself.

They follow all the curves of your body, help relieve tension from your back and evenly distribute the load. They will provide comfortable feeding, even if your baby likes to eat for a long time.

The manufacturer presents the following models:

• L-shaped (1660 rubles);
• Big (RUB 2,150);
• Bagel (2460 rub.);
• I-shaped (RUB 1,300);
• J-shaped (RUR 3,210);
• C-shaped (RUR 1,370 – small, RUR 1,460 – large size);
• U-shaped (2230 – small type, 2260 rubles – large).

BioSon produces special pillowcases. Their price ranges from 460 to 920 rubles. The manufacturer uses holofiber, artificial swan down and expanded polystyrene as filler.

The products of the German brand Theraline are very popular. The manufacturer offers C-shaped pillows. A huge selection of colors (more than 30) allows you to choose the best pillow to suit your taste. Additionally, you can buy a cover. Models are presented in 2 sizes: 170 and 190 cm.

The average price for large parameters is 4200 rubles, for small ones – 3800 rubles. The filler is polystyrene foam balls, the size of which is no more than 0.5 cm. The pillowcases are made of durable but soft cotton.

The French company Red Castle produces wonderful Big pillows for mothers and babies (photo below). They are easily transformed and take the desired shape. Their length is 170 cm. The filling is hypoallergenic balls, which are not felt at all during rest.

Made from organic cotton. It is collected by hand in special fields. The raw materials are of high quality and retain the warmth of the hands that collected them. The average price for this option is 5,400 rubles.

How to sew it yourself

If you can’t buy a pregnancy pillow, or you don’t like the models on offer, try sewing one yourself. It's not as difficult as it might seem at first glance.

Tools and materials:

• Sewing machine.
• Threads and needles.
• Scissors.
• Pencil and paper for pattern.
• Fabric for pillow.
• Fabric for pillowcase.
• Filler.

The main advantage of a hand-made pillow is the ability to make an ideal model to suit your size.

First we put the pattern on paper and cut it out. Fold the fabric in half, right side inward. Connect the center of the pattern to the fold of the fabric. For greater accuracy, pin the pattern to the fabric, carefully trace it with chalk and cut it out, not forgetting to allow for seam allowances. Some people prefer to make the entire pattern without folding it in half - and such a solution is possible, do it as you see fit.

After the cutting process, you should end up with two identical pieces. They need to be folded facing inward and basted. After this, we sew it on the machine, leaving about 20 centimeters so that it is convenient to stuff the pillow with filler. After stitching, turn the product inside out and add filler. We sew up the unstitched part by hand or by machine.

Now, using the existing pattern, we cut out two more parts, this time for the pillowcase. It is better to add 1 cm to the pattern, so to speak, “for the freedom of fit” of the pillowcase. To make the pillowcase easily removable, sew in a zipper.

We invite you to look at a photo showing a horseshoe pillow and a pattern for it.

The pregnancy pillow can easily be called a modern invention. And, despite the simplicity of the design, such a thing can make the life of an expectant mother easier. Moreover, it can be used not only during pregnancy, but also after. And if you can’t buy it, sew it yourself.