Pregnancy can be a wonderful and terrifying time at the same time. It’s full of endless changes, both physical and emotional, and it can be difficult to keep up with all of them. One change that often goes unnoticed is how your body changes during pregnancy. In particular, your sleep habits will change significantly. This isn’t just because you’re now sharing your bed with another person; your body is also changing physically in response to the hormones coursing through your veins. To make sure you get the best possible sleep during your pregnancy, consider getting a body pillow. Not only will it help you relax better at night, but it will also support your head and spine as you sleep.
What is a Body Pillow?
If you’re pregnant, you know that your body changes in ways that can be both uncomfortable and problematic. Your back aches, your hips swell, and your stomach becomes uncomfortably tight. But what about your neck? A traditional pillow may not be the best option for you if you’re pregnant because it can cause cervical lordosis, or a forward curve of the neck. A body pillow can help to address these issues by providing support for your neck and spine. Plus, they’re often easier to move around so you can find a comfortable position for sleeping.
How Does a Body Pillow Help During Pregnancy?
Why Use a Body Pillow During Pregnancy? When it comes to prenatal health and wellness, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. However, there are certain things that many pregnant women find helpful, including using a body pillow.
A body pillow can help support your head and neck while you're sleeping. It also helps distribute your weight evenly, which can reduce lower back pain and improve your overall sleep quality. Plus, it can provide extra pressure relief during those all-night contractions!
Some of the best body pillows on the market are specifically designed for pregnant women. They typically include extra padding to support your bump and a contoured design to ensure maximum comfort. If you're not sure whether or not a body pillow is right for you, talk to your healthcare provider about what might be best for you.
Pros and Cons of Using a Body Pillow During Pregnancy
The use of a body pillow during pregnancy is hotly debated, with both sides touting their benefits. Here are the pros and cons of using one:
Some women find that a body pillow helps them to get a good night's sleep and improve their posture. It can also help to relieve pressure on the lower back, hips, and pelvis.
Some studies have found that body pillows can reduce the incidence of hyperextension or hyperlordosis in pregnant women, which is a problem caused by excessive lordosis (a curvature of the spine) due to weight gain. They also seem to be helpful in relieving pain from sciatica or other sources in the lower back and abdomen.
Some body pillows come with straps that you can use to secure it around your waist or thighs if you find it difficult to sleep on your side. This allows you to continue sleeping on your stomach if that's more comfortable for you.
Conclusion
If you are pregnant, then you know that every little bit helps when it comes to ensuring a healthy pregnancy. One of the best things you can do for your body and your baby is to get plenty of sleep. However, if sleep isn't always possible or if you struggle with finding a comfortable position to rest in, then investing in a body pillow might be the solution for you. Body pillows are designed specifically to support your body during sleep, which means they will help improve your quality of sleep and provide relief from any pain or discomfort that might be plaguing you during pregnancy.