There’s probably no time in your life when sleep is more important than during pregnancy. But, as we know, it’s not always easy to get your 8hrs when you’re growing a tiny human. From back ache to acid reflux, hip pain to positioning, hitting the hay when you’re pregnant can be an uncomfortable experience. This is where pregnancy pillows can help.

A pregnancy pillow or maternity pillow is a pillow designed to support your body as you sleep throughout pregnancy. Pregnancy pillows come in a range of shapes and sizes, all designed to help alleviate all of your aches and pains so that you can get the shuteye you need. They can be used to support multiple areas of your body, including your back, neck, legs, hips, and head, keeping you comfortable as your body grows and changes.

Getting the amount of sleep you need when you’re pregnant can be difficult. Pregnancy can cause discomfort throughout the body, making it tricky to settle into your normal sleeping position and drift off. The more your baby develops, the harder it is to adjust your sleeping position once in bed. Pregnancy pillows can help you to get in a comfortable position that’s beneficial for you and your baby, supporting your body and setting you up perfectly for a peaceful night’s sleep.

You can use a pregnancy pillow whenever you like, but discomfort can start to creep in and disrupt your sleep from the second trimester. Side sleeping is recommended during pregnancy to aid with breathing and circulation, and many pregnant women find that as their bump grows, they’re less able to roll over and drift off. However, you can get used to using the pillow to position yourself comfortably before this, so that when the time comes you can fall asleep on your side quickly and stay slumbering throughout the night.

Regardless of the shape of the pillow, experts recommend that it be placed between the thighs and knees, taking the pressure off those baby-carrying joints and muscles from the knees to the hips. When it comes to head and shoulder positioning, this can be dependent on the type of pillow:

The U-shaped pillow has a curved design that can cradle your entire body. It provides great support to side sleepers, as it supports the spine, knees, hips, and bump. Plus, it can encourage back sleepers to sleep on their side.

Similarly, the C-shaped pillow has a curved design but is smaller in size and can be tucked wherever support is needed the most. The curves of the C can be brought under the neck and between the knees, with the long section underneath the belly, supporting your bump.

Whichever style you choose, the main goal should be to promote neutral spine positioning. This will take pressure off your back and cause the muscles in your hips to relax. If you’re thinking of investing in some extra sleep support for yourself or treating a pregnant loved one, take a look at our range of pregnancy pillows at Soak&Sleep.