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A Few Word About Sleep During Pregnancy
It is advised that you do not sleep on your back during the third trimester of your pregnancy. Research has shown that this will reduce the risk of stillbirth.
When you lie on your back your womb will put pressure on blood vessels that supply your baby. This restricts the flow of blood and oxygen to your baby which results in them being less active. It can also change their heart rate.
So as well as making things a lot more comfortable for you, a pregnancy pillow will help to keep you on your side as you sleep.
Different Types Of Pregnancy Pillow
Full Body Pregnancy Pillow:
U-Shaped
U-shaped pillows offer full support to your head, back, legs, and bump. You lie in the middle of the pillow with your head on the curved part and one side between your legs.
This is the kind of pillow that I used and is thought to be the most supportive and the most comfortable of the pregnancy pillows. It is perfect for restless sleeps as it doesn’t need to be adjusted as you turn.
I would say that the only downside to the U-shaped pillow is that it’s extremely bulky and takes up an awful lot of space. However this was a worthy sacrifice to me for the comfort it provided.
Check out my recommendation here.
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C-Shaped
C-shaped pillows are very comfortable and do provide good support for restless legs. However they do not provide as much support for your bump as a U-shaped.
I am quite a restless sleeper and if like me you tend to switch sides during the night then the C-shaped pillows are a bit impractical. You would need to turn your pillow with you which considering its size is quite a maneuver at 3am!
If you can stay still for longer than I can, and your legs are your main problem at night then this may be the pillow for you.
Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
Wedge pillows are used to support your back or belly while you are lying on your side. They are particularly good for supporting your bump as they are shaped to easily slide under.
You may find it convenient to use a wedge pillow as they small and can be transported anywhere. They also take up very little space in the bed.
However, as they only provide support for part of your body other pillows will need to be used.
I also had one of these as I travelled a couple of times in my third trimester. It was great just to throw in the car and a lot easier to transport than my full body pillow.
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Side Sleepers
The main advantage of a side sleeper pillow is the size, it’s easy to transport and does not take over your bed.
Although good to use for short periods the side sleeper may not offer as much back support as other types of pregnancy pillow. It can however be used to support the legs.
Check out the side sleeper pillow here.
Think about where you need the support and what is causing you the most problems at night. To get the most support a full body pregnancy pillow is recommended although you may wish to get something a bit more lightweight for travelling.
