If you’re pregnant, you’ve already noticed that sleeping isn’t quite as comfortable as it was before, and now you need it more than ever. So you’re probably thinking about getting yourself a pregnancy pillow to improve your sleep, which is the right thing to do. But do you know how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow? And do you know that different-shaped pregnancy pillows can be used differently, not just for sleeping?
Below, I will explain how to use different shapes of pregnancy pillows, so after finishing this article, you will know which form is the ideal one for you.
How to Sleep With a Pregnancy Pillow
There are so many ways that you can use a pregnancy pillow for more comfortable and restful sleep, and you can find the best ones explained below. You can rest your head, legs, arms, and even your belly on it; it all depends on the form of pregnancy pillow that you have. So let’s take a look at all of them and all of the ways you can use them to get a night of better sleep.
C-shaped pregnancy pillow
Getting yourself a C-shaped pregnancy pillow is the best decision if you usually sleep on your side. Also, this form of pregnancy pillow will fit perfectly if you have a larger bed with extra room on it.
Simply place the pillow on your bed, and because of its shape, it will be very easy for you to take your position on it. The right way to use the pillow is to put your back against the curve of the “C”, place your head on the top of the “C”, and put the bottom of the “C” between your knees.
If you feel pelvic tension, the shape of this pillow should quickly relieve it. Another thing that this C-shaped pregnancy pillow will provide is a soft place to put your belly on, which will bring you relief, especially if your belly is a bit bigger.
U-shaped pregnancy pillow
If you often toss and turn while sleeping, using a U-shaped pregnancy pillow is the best for you because you can turn without changing the place of the pillow. Also, if you usually sleep on your back, the U-shaped pillow will provide you with the maximum support for your entire body.
The trick with this pillow is to place it upside down, so your feet should fit in the opening of the pillow, and your head should rest on the curve of the “U”.
I must mention that the U-shaped pregnancy pillow is a bit more expensive compared to the prices of the others, and it’s also bigger, but the benefits and the comfort it will bring you are priceless.
J-shaped pregnancy pillow
The J-shaped pregnancy pillow is a bit similar to the U-shaped pregnancy pillow, but it’s smaller, so it will take up a lot less space in your bed. Also, it will give you the possibility to cuddle with your partner because it’s open on one side.
You can use this shape of a pregnancy pillow in more than one way. You can hug the long side and place your feet on the curved part, or place the pillow upside down and rest your head on the curved part. Whatever feels most comfortable for you is the right way to use this shape of a pregnancy pillow, so feel free to try different ways.
Also read: When Do You Have Your First Ultrasound?
Full-length pregnancy pillow
A full-length pregnancy pillow can also be called an I-shaped pregnancy pillow because of its straight form. A full-length pregnancy pillow is great if you love to sleep on your side. You can rest your head on it or wrap your arms and legs around it. Both ways are very pleasant.
You won’t get much back support from a full-length pillow, but you will definitely get the coziness and support for your belly you might need during your pregnancy. And you can even find a flexible form of these types of pregnancy pillows, so you can bend them and adjust them to your body.
Wedge-shaped pregnancy pillow
Wedge-shaped pregnancy pillows are smaller and cheaper, but they offer great support to your neck, head, and even your belly. The wedge pillow is especially handy if you travel because it’s easily portable so that you can bring it anywhere.
You can put this type of pillow under your regular pillow, but you can also use it to support your belly while lying on your side. You can find this type of pregnancy pillow in the shape of a circle or the shape of a triangle.
How to Use a Pregnancy Pillow After Giving Birth
If you think that you will throw out your pregnancy pillow after giving birth, you’re wrong. I still use mine, and to be honest, it’s really helpful and practical, and I will tell you why.
The trick I use daily is I roll the pillow in the form of a donut and fasten up the ends. Then I place my baby inside of it, as this form is very cozy. Don’t be afraid to try this trick; your baby will be safe and comfortable.
You can use the pillow while nursing for better support and more comfort. The way to do that is to sit and place the pillow around your waist and then use it as soft and stable support for your baby. You can easily breastfeed or bottle-feed your little bundle of joy in this position.
You can also use your pregnancy pillow when having a long car drive. You can even place it in the back of the car, providing more comfort when you stop to take a rest.
Conclusion
Now you know the general guidelines of how to use every type of pregnancy pillow, but in the end, it all depends on what makes you feel most comfortable.
Choosing the right shape and learning how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow can make your pregnancy a lot easier, provide you with better and restful sleep, support for your belly, and not just make sleeping more comfortable for you but for your baby as well. So try different ways until you find the most enjoyable one for you.
