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Best Pregnancy Pillows
Pregnancy is hard on your body. As you progress through the weeks in your first, second, and third trimesters, bodily discomforts are likely to appear. This can make getting a good night’s rest feel almost impossible, especially once you’re no longer able to sleep on your stomach or back. But getting a full night’s sleep is just as important, if not more so, when you’re pregnant.
Pregnancy pillows can bring some much-needed relief to sleep-deprived expecting mothers. These specialized pillows are designed to support your growing stomach, while making the doctor-recommended side sleeping position a bit more comfortable. We’ll break down the various shapes and intended functions of pregnancy pillows, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Best Pregnancy Pillows
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Best Overall
Eli & Elm Ultra Comfort Memory Foam Body Pillow
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Most Comfortable
Sweet Zzz Body Pillow
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Best Value
Buffy Cloud Body Pillow
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Best for Side Sleepers
Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow
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Best for Back Pain
Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow
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Best Pressure Relief
The Company Store Essentials Feather and Down Body Pillow Insert
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Best for Spinal Alignment
MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow
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Best for Hip Pain
Back Support Systems Body Pillow
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Best Cooling
Yana Pillow
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In-Depth Reviews
Best Overall
Eli & Elm Ultra Comfort Memory Foam Body Pillow
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Eli & Elm pillows
Shop NowThe Eli & Elm Ultra Comfort Memory Foam Body Pillow is a great candidate for pregnant women who are looking for a strong balance of cushioning and support. The “U” shape keeps the entire body supported while the foam fill cradles you in all the right places.
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Pros
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Fill can be added or removed to adjust the loft and overall feel
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Ergonomic design cushions the lumbar region for enhanced pressure relief
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Cover is made from a breathable poly-cotton blend
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Cons
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Foam is prone to heat retention
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Women who are sensitive to smell may notice off-gassing odors at first
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Price
$145
Fill
Shredded memory foam
Firmness
Medium
Anyone in the market for a pregnancy pillow will discover a wide range of options when shopping online. Eli & Elm’s Ultra Comfort Memory Foam Body Pillow checks a lot of the key boxes for pregnant people, including an ergonomic shape that supports the lower back, extra length, cushy fill ideal for snuggling, and a breathable cover to offset heat retention. The pillow is also adjustable — simply add or remove the shredded foam to achieve your ideal loft and firmness levels.
Although this pillow measures 56 inches long, the compact U shape prevents it from spilling onto your partner’s side of the bed. The thickest portion of the pillow rests against your lumbar region — a common source of discomfort during pregnancy, particularly during the second and third trimesters — and a slender arm can be placed between your knees or legs for added lower back support. Since the pillow is adjustable, you can reallocate the fill to areas where you need more cushioning.
The cover is made from a blend of polyester and cotton with some spandex to make the fabric stretchy and smooth. You can separate the cover from the inner sleeve holding the fill, then wash and dry it in your household machines. Avoid exposing the foam fill to water, as this can cause permanent damage.
The Ultra Comfort Memory Foam Body Pillow is competitively priced and shipping is free of charge for all orders. Eli & Elm allows you to test the pillow at home for up to 45 nights, and full refunds are issued for all returns during this time frame.
The Sweet Zzz Body Pillow is a squishy and moldable down alternative model, with an extra-long size that allows you to tuck it between your legs while supporting your belly. Women of all heights should find this pillow comfortable.
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Pros
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Down alternative clusters encased in organic cotton make the pillow exceptionally soft and moldable
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54-inch length ensures the pillow can accommodate most sleepers
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Very little heat retention
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Cons
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May be too soft for sleepers who need a supportive pillow
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Long length takes up a lot of space
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Price
$149
Fill
100% down alternative fibers
Firmness
Medium Soft
The Sweet Zzz Body Pillow is soft, moldable, and extra-long. A length of 4.5 feet ensures even exceptionally tall people can lie comfortably with the pillow tucked between their knees. The fill consists of down alternative clusters that mimic the plush, lightweight feel of real down without triggering allergy symptoms or using animal-based materials. An organic cotton shell encases the fill. This fabric has earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, ensuring the cotton is sustainably grown and harvested.
An organic cotton liner separates the shell from the fill. This component allows you to wash and dry the shell in household machines without needing to launder the down alternative fibers. Since the fill retains very little heat and the organic cotton is highly breathable, the pillow shouldn’t sleep excessively hot – a major draw for pregnant sleepers who tend to feel warm or sweat while they sleep.
An affordable price-tag and free delivery across the contiguous U.S. make the Body Pillow a good option for shoppers with limited budgets. Sweet Zzz also offers reasonable flat shipping rates for Canadian customers. Each purchase is backed by a 50-night sleep trial and 4-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Value
Buffy Cloud Body Pillow
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Buffy pillows
Shop NowThe Buffy Cloud Body Pillow is a down alternative option that’s snuggly but supportive enough to comfortably place under your belly and between the legs. The approachable price-point makes it a great value, and you can easily continue using the pillow post-pregnancy to get the most bang for your buck.
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Pros
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Breathable lyocell shell and fiber fill cushion the body without absorbing excess heat
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Each pillow uses roughly 73 recycled bottles
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Sateen weave makes the cover feel smooth and silky-soft
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Cons
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Rectangular shape does not offer the same full-body support as a U-shaped model
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Might feel too plush for women who prefer firmer support
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Price
$69
Fill
Recycled PET fibers
Firmness
Medium
The Buffy Cloud Body Pillow is an affordable option that uses the same naturally breathable design that’s made the brand’s standard Cloud Pillow so popular with sleepers. The fill consists of PET fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. This material mimics the natural softness and airiness of cotton. A shell made of moisture-wicking lyocell fabric encases the fill. The cover has a luxuriously smooth hand-feel thanks to its sateen weave.
The pillow measures 4.5 feet long, making it ideal for pregnant people who enjoy sleeping with a pillow tucked between their legs as well as those who experience frequent back pain. The fill weighs 88 ounces, so the pillow is lightweight and easy to reposition as needed. Buffy recommends using an additional cover to keep the pillow hygienic and dry cleaning whenever it becomes dirty, as its size will likely be too large for most household washing machines.
Buffy utilizes FSC-certified recycled cardboard for all deliveries. Customers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free ground shipping with their order. The company places a 7-day hold on the card you use for your purchase, so you won’t be charged right away. Pillow returns are accepted within 30 days of the order date.
Best for Side Sleepers
Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow
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Shop NowComfort is key for any sleeper, but it’s especially important when you’re pregnant. The Momcozy U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow has a plush cotton fill that optimizes cushioning, and the ergonomic design helps minimize pressure buildup throughout your body.
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Pros
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Smooth velvet cover glides gently across the skin
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Cotton fiber fill retains less heat than foam
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Ergonomic design cushions the stomach and alleviates pressure in the lumbar region
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Cons
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Customer is responsible for return shipping fee
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May require frequent fluffing to distribute the fill evenly
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Price
$45
Fill
Cotton fiber fill
Firmness
Medium
Pregnancy can alter your body’s thermoregulation, causing you to overheat and sweat in bed even on colder nights. The Momcozy U-Shaped Body Pillow is a great option for any hot sleeper, pregnant or not. Fill consisting of fluffy cotton batting promotes airflow without retaining too much warmth, especially compared to other pillow materials such as down, memory foam, or latex. Another cooling component is the cover made of smooth, breathable polyester velvet.
The pillow uses an ergonomic design to support your entire body. A gentle curve cushions your stomach, while the back features a small protrusion intended to reduce pressure in your lumbar region and hips. The bottom of the pillow forms a small hook for tucking between your knees. While designed for side-sleeping pillow snugglers, the pillow is thick enough to provide decent support for your head and neck while lying on your back.
You can wash and dry the cover in your household machines for quick, easy care. Simply unzip the cover and separate from the fill pouch before laundering. The U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow is affordably priced, and shipping is available worldwide with reasonable rates. If you are not satisfied with the pillow and want a refund, you may request a return up to 7 days after the delivery date.
Best for Back Pain
Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Newton Baby pillows
Shop NowThe Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow has a unique design that helps minimize some of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy. The shredded memory foam excels at cradling, and you can modify the shape with a removable segment to ensure a perfect fit for your needs.
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Pros
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Plush yet supportive fill consists of shredded foam and down alternative clusters
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Adjustable design lets you choose between U, J, or C shapes
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Breathable organic cotton cover encases the fill
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Cons
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Memory foam may trap some heat
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Full U-shape has a bulky profile
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Price
$80
Fill
Shredded memory foam and down alternative clusters
Firmness
Medium
Back pain and pregnancy often go hand in hand, but choosing the right pillow can help alleviate your discomfort. The Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow measures 55 inches long and features an ergonomic shape that contours to your back, stomach, and hips. With a fill blend consisting of shredded memory foam and down alternative clusters, the pillow feels soft yet adaptive.
Thanks to the detachable extension, you can sleep with the pillow nestled against your front and back, or remove this component and opt for a J shape. You may also feel comfortable with the extension tucked between your legs — this can reduce pain in the lumbar region. A breathable organic cotton cover gives the surface an exceptionally soft feel. Since a separate liner contains the fill, you can remove and machine wash the cover whenever a cleaning is needed.
The Pregnancy Pillow is competitively priced and Newton Baby offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Shoppers in Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada pay a reasonable delivery fee. Returns are accepted within 30 days of receipt.
Best Pressure Relief
The Company Store Essentials Feather and Down Body Pillow Insert
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on The Company Store pillows
Shop NowThe Company Store Essentials Feather and Down Body Pillow is exceptionally soft compared to other pillows we’ve tested, thanks to a fill that’s composed primarily of feathers. This is the model to get if you prize plushness in pillows.
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Pros
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Feather and down fill blend creates a plush yet supportive feel
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Shell composed of durable cotton twill
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RDS certification ensures ethical and humane animal treatment
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Cons
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72-inch length takes up more space than some other pregnancy pillows
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Must pay shipping fee for purchases under $75
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Price
$78
Fill
95% feathers, 5% down
Firmness
Medium
When it comes to pillow construction, softness and support don’t always go hand in hand. The Essentials Down and Feather Body Pillow Insert from The Company Store finds a nice compromise between these two qualities. This is thanks to the pillow’s fill, which consists primarily of feathers that provide plushness without compressing too much beneath your weight. A small amount of down adds extra softness.
The pillow measures 72 inches in length, making it longer than average and suitable for anyone who feels more comfortable sleeping with a pillow between their legs. A shell made of smooth, long-lasting cotton twill encases the fill. Although the pillow is technically machine-washable, it may be too large for washers with agitators and other household appliances. You can purchase a pillowcase or protector separately to safeguard the insert from stains, dust, and contaminants, which in turn reduces the need for frequent cleaning.
The feathers and down fill holds certification with the Responsible Down Standard, an organization that certifies brands for ethical and humane treatment of all animals that produce the down. In addition to below-average pricing, the Essentials Feather and Down Body Pillow Insert qualifies for free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your purchase is backed by The Company Store’s lifetime guarantee, which permits returns and exchanges at any point past the delivery date.
Best for Spinal Alignment
MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow
Use this link for the most current MedCline discounts
Shop NowThe MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow has a plush foam fill that cradles your body closely and an ergonomic design that supports your body where you need it most during pregnancy. The result is a pillow that helps keep your head, neck, and spine in healthy alignment.
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Pros
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J-shaped design supports the body when side sleeping
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Adjustable fill allows you to customize pillow loft
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Shredded memory foam core contours to the body to help relieve pressure points
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Cons
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High likelihood of heat retention due to foam design
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Fee is incurred for pillow returns
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Price
$120
Fill
Shredded memory foam
Firmness
Medium
The MedCline Therapeutic Body Pillow has a unique J-shaped design that can provide extra support and reduce pregnancy-related discomforts. Snuggling with the pillow helps promote healthy spinal alignment while reducing pain in the lower back and shoulders.
The pillow has a polyester shell, which is removable and machine-washable for easy care. Shredded memory foam in the core offers cushioning for pressure points while staying quite moldable. Two sizes are available. The foam fill can be added or removed to adjust the pillow’s loft up to 5 inches for the small model and 6 inches for the medium model. The small model measures 45 inches long and is intended for adults who are 5 feet 1 inch or shorter. Taller people may prefer the medium model that is 50 inches long. Both have a medium (5) feel that offers excellent cushioning to alleviate pressure.
You can choose to add a white or gray body pillow cover to your pillow order for a discount. MedCline accepts returns between 30 and 60 days after delivery, and Therapeutic Body Pillows are backed by a 1-year warranty that covers structural defects.
Best for Hip Pain
Back Support Systems Body Pillow
Shop Back Support System pillows with 20% off sitewide + free shipping. Use code SF20
Shop NowThe Back Support Systems Body Pillow comes in three different materials and two shape options. This means you can pick a pillow that really suits your particular needs, whether it’s alleviating painful joints or supporting your belly.
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Pros
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Available in straight and J-shaped designs
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Three fill options to suit your personal needs and preferences
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Cover made of breathable, moisture-wicking bamboo-derived fabric
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Cons
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Hot sleepers may find foam models too warm
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Opened or used pillows cannot be returned
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Price Range
$80 – $140
Fill
Shredded memory foam (Good), shredded foam and fiber blend (Better), shredded latex (Best)
Firmness
Medium, Medium Firm
Some body pillows are straight and ideal for snuggling, while others have ergonomic shapes to provide lower back and hip support. With the Back Support Systems Body Pillow, you can choose between both options. The oblong pillow measures 52 inches long, while the slightly longer J-shaped pillow is designed to cushion your hips or fit between your knees. Both provide enough loft to elevate your head and reduce pain in the neck and shoulders.
Three fills are available, each with a unique name. The “Good” fill consists of shredded memory foam that feels squishy and highly adaptive. If you upgrade to “Better” fill, it will feature a blend of shredded memory foam and down alternative fibers for a distinctly softer feel against your body. Pillows with the “Best” fill contain shredded latex, which provides gentle cushioning and also has a lengthy expected lifespan. While the fill names reflect their increasingly higher price-points, none of the pillows are particularly expensive compared to other competing models.
The cover is made of viscose derived from bamboo, a breathable fabric with moisture-wicking properties and a luxuriously soft hand-feel. You may remove and machine wash the cover whenever it needs to be cleaned. You may also purchase a replacement cover.
Back Support Systems offers worldwide shipping with rates based on package weight. You may return unopened pillows within 30 days for a full refund, but opened or used pillows are considered personal care items and may not be returned.
If you’re looking for a pillow that won’t trap much heat, the Yana Pillow is a safe bet. It’s filled with shredded latex and encased in a cover made of bamboo-derived fabric — materials that are both known for their natural cooling properties.
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Pros
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Shredded latex fill retains its shape
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U-shape can be used in a variety of ways
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Fill is designed to relieve pressure
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Cons
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Not suitable for women with a latex allergy
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Above-average price tag
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Price
$199
Fill
Shredded latex
Firmness
Medium
The Yana Sleep Pillow has a comfortable combination of support and pressure relief that expectant mothers may find beneficial. Though it has a higher-than-average price-point, shoppers looking for a durable, high-quality pregnancy pillow may find the Yana Sleep Pillow a worthy investment.
The Yana Pillow has a U-shape that’s flexible and can be used in multiple positions. Side sleepers can rest in the middle of the two arms so that they’re supported on both the front and back of their bodies. People suffering from knee or lumbar pain can position the arms to rest beneath those areas for added support.
The pillow’s fill is crafted from shredded latex, which is known for its durability, responsiveness, and pressure relief. Latex is typically a suitable option for those who want to alleviate discomfort from pressure points but prefer a surface that has slightly more bounce than memory foam. Sleepers are able to add and remove the latex fill as needed to create a comfortable loft level.
Hot sleepers should find that this pillow stays cool throughout the night, thanks to its latex fill and bamboo-derived cover. Users can machine wash the cover, though the pillow’s 16-pound weight means it’s too heavy for a washing machine and should only be spot cleaned. Shoppers can return unopened pillows within 30 days of purchase to receive a full refund.
What is a Pregnancy Pillow?
A pregnancy pillow is a sleep accessory designed to support the changing bodies of expecting mothers, help them attain a comfortable resting position, and get more sleep. Pregnancy places a great deal of strain on the body, especially as the pregnancy progresses. Additional weight often stresses the back and joints, including the hips, knees, and ankles. This can cause aches and pains that make getting a full night’s rest difficult.
Pregnancy pillows are specifically designed to accommodate the contours of the pregnant body and provide support where it’s needed most. These pillows can be found in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate each sleep position and help prevent aches and pains. The most common types include C- and U-shaped full body pillows that provide support to the entire body, and wedge pillows that can be used to strategically support a single area like the midsection or back.
Do I Need a Pregnancy Pillow?
While a pregnancy pillow is not a necessity, it may be a suitable choice if you’re experiencing sleep disturbances as your pregnancy progresses. Sleep is important for your physical health, especially when your body is hard at work supporting the growth of another life.
As your pregnancy progresses, good sleep can be harder to come by. Expecting mothers are often prone to symptoms such as back and joint pain, heartburn, and sleep apnea. These symptoms can worsen as you reach your third trimester.
Getting comfortable at night is often key to being able to fall asleep and stay asleep. You can try to add extra cushioning with additional standard pillows, but a pregnancy pillow is specially designed to accommodate the shape of your pregnant body.
How to Choose a Pregnancy Pillow
If one or more of the many discomforts of pregnancy are keeping you from getting a full night of sleep, a pregnancy pillow is worth considering. But with so many choices, including different sizes, materials, and unusual shapes, it’s hard to know which is the right model for you. We’ll examine the most important factors to consider when choosing the best pregnancy pillow.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Pregnancy Pillow
Knowing exactly what to look for in a pregnancy pillow will largely depend on your own personal needs, including where you need support the most, but some properties are universal. Since bedding companies don’t alway use plain language to describe their products, it can be difficult to decipher the major differences between models. We’ll cover the most important factors to consider so that you can find a pregnancy pillow that works for you.
Sleeping Position
Your preferred sleep position will come into play when choosing a pillow. While pregnant, sleeping on your left side is recommended by doctors. Stomach sleeping becomes nearly impossible as your stomach grows, and back sleeping can restrict circulation. Sleeping on your left side places the least amount of strain on your body.
For this reason, the majority of pregnancy pillows are designed to make side sleeping more comfortable, including C-shaped and U-shaped pillows.
Loft
The right pillow loft is critical to healthy spinal alignment, and it can also help with snoring. A model that is too thick might push the head up, while one that is too thin could allow the head to droop, either of which could contribute to airway constriction and increased snoring.
The ideal loft depends primarily on body type and sleep position. Sleepers with broader shoulders and/or heavier heads usually need a thicker pillow to fill the space between their mattress and head and neck while providing adequate support, and those with narrower shoulders and/or smaller heads often need a thinner model for support without excessive lift.
Support
The amount of support a pregnancy pillow provides depends largely on its shape. Full body pillows can support multiple parts of your body and oversized models will essentially cradle you from head to toe. Smaller pillows like wedges may be firmer, but they only offer support to one area.
Firmness Level
Different pillow models will provide varying levels of firmness. Pillows made from polyester fiber fill tend to be softer and are a good option if you only need a bit of extra cushioning. Foam-based pillows are generally firmer and may provide additional support to the lower back and stomach.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief refers to how well a pillow molds to the shape of your body and alleviates pressure points. This is especially important for pregnant people dealing with chronic body aches.
Shape
Pregnancy pillows generally fall into two main categories: body pillows and smaller support pillows. Body pillows, including C- and U-shaped pillows, are designed to offer support to the head, neck, abdomen, back, and knees. While body pillows can be quite bulky, they make side sleeping easier. In contrast, smaller support pillows, including wedge-shaped ones, are meant to provide concentrated support to a single area.
Price
Pregnancy pillows generally cost less than $100, but it’s important to remember that price isn’t the only factor that should be considered. While quality can sometimes correlate with price, many well-made pregnancy pillow options are available for under $50. If you’re on a limited budget, you may want to consider a smaller, less expensive support pillow, like a wedge.
Quality Materials
Materials impact a pillow’s durability, breathability, level of support, and firmness. Polyester is the most common type of material used for both the cover and fill in pregnancy pillows. Polyester-based fabrics and fills are generally affordable, durable, and can come in many textures and levels of firmness. Foam is a good choice if you’re looking for a pillow that provides firmer support coupled with pressure relief.
Moldability
As your body changes during your pregnancy, it’s important to consider every level of comfort that your pillow can provide. Certain materials are more likely to help promote airflow to prevent you from overheating as you sleep. Polyester-based materials are often breathable, making them ideal for pregnancy body pillows. Memory foam is the most likely to trap heat, and tends to be more suitable for smaller pillows.
Pregnancy Pillow Shapes
You can find pregnancy pillows in all types of shapes. A pillow’s shape will determine the
type of support it provides. Some shapes are designed to support your entire body from head to toe, while smaller models bolster specific areas such as the back or stomach. You’ll need to consider where you need support the most in order to choose the shape that’s best for you. We’ll take a closer look at the most common pregnancy pillow styles on the market.
C-Shaped: This style of pillow is long, thin, and curved. The C-shape is one of the most versatile styles of pregnancy pillows. It’s not very bulky and its shape allows you to arrange it in different ways depending on where you need support. You can lay it out lengthwise to create a full body pillow to cuddle while side sleeping, or fold it in half and use it to support your stomach, back, knees, or shoulders.
Wedge Pillows: Wedge pillows are the most compact style of pregnancy pillow. While they don’t offer full-body support, you can use these inexpensive pillows to strategically bolster various parts of your body. These are especially useful for providing support to your stomach and back. You can also couple one or more wedge pillows with a larger pregnancy pillow for additional support.
U-Shaped: U-shaped pillows are designed to cradle your entire body. With your head placed at the bottom of the U, this style of pillow provides secure support for your head and neck, as well as both sides of your body. Although rather bulky, the U-shape design still offers some level of versatility. In the early stages of pregnancy, you can sleep comfortably on your back and then transition to side sleeping with excellent support for your stomach, back, and knees.
Inflatable Pillows: Inflatable pillows are typically the largest pregnancy pillows available and are designed to accommodate stomach sleepers. If you’re a lifelong stomach sleeper, having to suddenly change your sleep style on top of the other discomforts associated with pregnancy may be difficult. Inflatable pillows provide full-body cushioning with a hole in the center to fit your baby bump.
Other Styles: Bedding companies can get creative when it comes to the shape of pregnancy pillows, so shoppers may come across unique shapes that don’t fit into any of the above categories. Other shapes include the teardrop, designed as a small, versatile support pillow, and the barbell shape, designed to promote side sleeping.
Pregnancy Pillow Materials
Pregnancy pillows can differ significantly in their composition, including the materials used to make the cover and the interior filling. The type of material used will have an impact on the feel and performance of the pillow.
Many snorers find relief with the right pillow since it can change their position. Lifting the head and neck often makes gravity work in the sleeper’s favor, allowing their throat muscles to relax without blocking the airway.
We want you to get the best night’s sleep possible, which can be done under a medical professional’s guidance. Talk to your doctor for help determining the cause of your snoring and charting a course of action.
Pillow Fills
Polyester Fiberfill | Polyester fiberfill is a lofty material made from polyester. It is commonly used as a fill material in larger pregnancy pillows, as it provides soft, yet supportive comfort and ample airflow. Polyester fiberfill is also relatively inexpensive, hypoallergenic, and easy to clean. |
Memory Foam | Memory foam is known for its excellent contouring properties. It molds to the curves of the body while providing support. However, some memory foam formulations can stifle airflow and retain heat. For this reason, memory foam is typically reserved for smaller pregnancy pillows like wedges. |
Polyfoam | Polyfoam provides contouring and support but tends to be firmer and less conforming than memory foam. This can result in more robust support for the back or stomach. |
Microbeads | Smaller pregnancy pillows may be stuffed with microbeads. This material is made from small, round pieces of polystyrene and offers excellent contouring. |
Pillow Covers
Cotton | Cotton is a breathable natural fiber that is easy to clean. It absorbs moisture and typically feels soft to the touch. Many higher-end pregnancy pillows feature organic cotton covers. |
Polyester | Polyester is a synthetic fabric that’s highly versatile. Manufacturers can formulate polyester fabrics to have different textures as well as an elastic stretch, a good feature for larger pillow covers. |
Other Tips for Getting Better Sleep While Pregnant
A pregnancy pillow may help you find a comfortable position and fall asleep more easily. However, many other factors impact your sleep quality, including your sleep position, sleep surface, overall sleep hygiene, and the temperature of your room.
Sleep on Your Side: Many doctors recommend that expecting mothers sleep on their left sides, as they consider this sleep position to be the safest during pregnancy. Sleeping on your back can restrict blood flow, while sleeping on your right side can place strain on your liver. Sleeping on your stomach becomes virtually impossible as the pregnancy progresses.
Keep Your Bedroom Cool: There’s evidence that indicates that sleeping in a cool room can help you fall asleep quickly. The body experiences a natural drop in core temperature in the evening as part of the circadian rhythm. Mimicking this effect by setting your thermostat to around 65 degrees may help you fall asleep faster.
Choose the Right Mattress: While a pillow will help improve your body positioning as you sleep, you’ll still want to ensure that you are sleeping on a supportive mattress. The best mattresses for pregnancy tend to offer excellent pressure relief and a cool sleep surface that help prevent you from overheating during the night.
Focus on Sleep Hygiene: Proper sleep hygiene is one of the most significant ways you can improve your sleep. Establishing a nightly routine that helps you wind down and prepare for sleep may be beneficial for your sleep quality during pregnancy and postpartum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Pillows
Pregnancy pillows typically cost between $30 to $70. In comparison to the best pillows, which often carry a price tag of $100 or more, pregnancy pillows are relatively inexpensive. This is beneficial, as you may only use this type of pillow for a short period of time during the later stages of your pregnancy.
Smaller pregnancy pillow models tend to be less expensive, and you may be able to find wedge pillows for less than the average price. Larger models, such as full body pregnancy pillows, tend to be slightly higher in price. As price is not the only indicator of quality, keep in mind that you can still find excellent pregnancy pillows at affordable price-points.
Some pregnancy pillows can be placed directly into the washing machine, but most come with a removable cover that you take off and wash. As with any type of bedding, it’s important to consider how easy a pregnancy pillow is to clean before you buy.
Being able to place your entire pillow in the wash will ensure it’s cleaned thoroughly, but not all washing machines can accommodate the size of a pregnancy body pillow. Removable covers are ideal if you have a smaller washing machine, but they can be difficult to remove and put back on in the case of a larger or unusually shaped pillow.
A pregnancy pillow that promotes airflow and is made from allergy-resistant materials such as down alternative, memory foam, or other synthetic fabrics will be the best for allergy sufferers. Allergies are typically caused by a sensitivity to allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, or mold, and they can have a significant impact on how well you sleep.
If you’re prone to allergies, make sure to find a pregnancy pillow that won’t aggravate the issue. Down and feathers tend to irritate existing allergies. Synthetic materials such as polyester and foam often work well for people with allergies. Some natural materials are also promoted as having hypoallergenic properties.
A cover with a tight weave may help protect your pillow from absorbing allergens. Cleaning your pillow regularly can also help prevent the buildup of dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.