Maternity pillows, or pregnancy pillows, are like ordinary pillows but they are specially designed for comfort during pregnancy. The idea is to support you and your neck but also to give your back support. If a mother sleeps comfortably and in the correct position, so does the baby and this can only be positive for both of you.
There is a large range of shapes and materials to choose from when you are shopping for maternity body pillows and you may even need a different type at different stages of pregnancy.
Wedge maternity pillows that support the tummy and back are actually divided into two pillows which are linked together. The supportive foam keeps its shape and the Velcro strips which hold the two sections together can be adjusted to give the correct support at different stages. This is a great idea because you can adjust it as often as needed and do not have to go out there and buy a new one because you cannot get a decent night’s sleep.
Big boppy maternity pillows give support to any area of the body you require. You can use them to hug and support yourself or use them for your head. The choice is yours but the pillow is big enough to support the top half of the body and the top of the legs if required. Aching legs in bed is one of the most frequently complained about sleep problems.
Make sure that any pregnancy pillow you buy has removable, washable covers as it is often difficult to find any to fit, unless you are adept enough to make your own. Buy something that looks well made and will not drop to pieces in the washing machine because you will be able to use it as a nursing pillow after the baby is born too. It needs to be able to stand lots of washing.
Maternity pillows are not cheap compared with ordinary bed pillows but the right one is a real investment and will save so much stress and strain by helping you get a comfortable night’s sleep. If you are relaxed and feeling well, your baby will be feeling that way too.
Large, handmade maternity pillows measuring eighteen by twenty-four inches come complete with carrying handles and made of washable cotton fabric are available at about $40 , but you do not have to pay as much as that, especially if you are not sure that it is exactly what you need. Some of the fabric patterns are very nice too, so you do not have to stick to plain white, blue, or pink.
Whatever your choice when it comes to choosing your pregnancy pillows, make sure that the filling of the pillow itself is hypo allergenic and can be washed or dry cleaned. Ideally, you should ask if you can have a spare cover with the pillow. If you do not ask, you will never know. It is possible to get a cover for maternity pillows free, if you are buying other things too.