Studies show that most pregnant women have trouble sleeping, especially because of the body changes they are going through. I, for one, had experienced many sleepless nights when I was still pregnant. The best and easiest solution to this problem is a pregnancy pillow. In this article, you will get to know the kinds of pregnancy pillows. Not only that, but you will also learn what causes the challenge in sleeping and, of course, how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow.
Kinds of Pregnancy Pillows
Before you learn how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow, you need to know the many kinds of pregnancy pillows, so you will know what to buy. Here are the five kinds of pregnancy pillows you can use:
- C-Shaped Full-Body Pillow
This pregnancy pillow comes in the shape of a giant C, which can stand for comfort and cozy! And because it is a full-body pillow, it is great to support your entire body, especially your back and belly. - Full-Length Pillow
This pregnancy pillow is straight and extra-long that you can use to cuddle when you are sleeping. These pillows are a great support for your head, belly, and knees. Do not confuse them with body pillows. - Inflatable Pregnancy Pillow
As the name suggests, this pregnancy pillow is inflatables that come with a comfortable hole that safely cradles your belly and allows you to sleep on your stomach—especially if that is your favorite sleeping position. This pillow is perfect when you are already on your third trimester. - Pregnancy Wedges
This pregnancy pillow is perfect when you are on a tight budget. The wedge is not as expensive as the other pillows listed here. The pillow only targets to provide support and comfort for your belly. This pillow is perfect for women who like side-sleeping. It comes in triangles or circles. - U-Shaped Full Body
This pregnancy pillow has the shape of a giant U or a very large horseshoe. This pillow greatly supports the back, the belly, and the head.
Difficulty in Sleeping when Pregnant
Before we move forward to learn how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow, you need to know why you find it difficult to sleep when you are pregnant. Besides the fact that pregnancy changes your body physically, other abstract factors give you a challenge sleeping.
- Heartburn
Heartburn is one of the reasons why soon-to-be moms are always up at night. This painful burning in the chest and your throat is due to the pressure put by your growing baby to your stomach, which pushes acid up your chest and throat. - Hormones
This one is another big factor as to your sleep deprivation. Hormones contribute to changing your sleeping patterns, like sleepiness during the daytime caused by high progesterone levels. - Stress
The stress of pregnancy is also a big factor in sleepless nights. You worry about your baby’s arrival, the fear of labor, and the many preparations for your home.
Just remember that sleep is a priority because it is crucial both for your health and the growing baby! Hopefully, sleeping with pregnancy pillows will help.
Using Pregnancy Pillows
Now it is the perfect time to learn how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow—whether it be a C-shaped, U-shaped, full-length, inflatable, or wedge. Here is a guide on sleeping with the different pregnancy pillows on this list.
- C-Shaped Full Body
You place the pillow on the bed and spread it out. Climb on the pillow and make sure that the curve of the C is towards your back. Place your head on the top of the pillow and insert the bottom part between your thighs. The curve in front of you should reach your belly to support it. - Full-Length
This pillow is very easy to use! Just place it on your bed and wrap your arms around it! Make sure the pillow is close to you. Then, find a comfortable position, making sure that the pillow supports your belly. - Inflatable Pregnancy Pillow
First, you must inflate the pillow using a pump. Place it on the bed. Gently lay on top of it, making sure your belly is in the hole. You can add a blanket or a soft cotton towel on the pillow for added comfort. - Pregnancy Wedges
Another easy to use pillow; you put the wedge under your baby bump to support it. - U-Shaped Full Body
Using it is the same with the C-shaped full body pregnancy pillow. You cuddle one side of the pillow and turn over when you want to switch sides. Know more about pregnancy.
Conclusion
Now you know how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow. Pretty simple, right? What you only need to do now is apply the things you have learned to make sure your belly is well-supported, and you get a great night’s sleep. Always remember that pregnancy pillows have various kinds, and they all have different uses. Familiarize yourself so that you do not have to worry about your soon arriving baby constantly. After all, sleep is a very crucial health matter that you and your baby should always have. Sleep well!