The baby bump can be very limiting to the expecting mother, in most daily chores, especially in the last trimester. This is very true when it comes to their sleep quality. More and more women, report sleeping less and having poor quality sleep at irregular timings. All these are pregnancy woes that can be easily avoided with the use of a comfortable pregnancy pillow. Maternity pillows are the biggest life savers, especially during sleep. The new unique shaped pillows provide complete support to the body, even to the neck.
Using Different Shaped Pillows
There are certain guidelines one needs to follow when buying a pregnancy pillow and using the different shapes of pillows. Knowing the correct way to use them will increase their benefits manifold.
Full Body Pillow
Full body pillows are long and straight, and easily adaptable. They can be curled in any manner to suit the need of the user, unlike other shaped pillows they do not come moulded in any particular manner. Some might have a preference for this shape, as it is less bulky and can be used later on as regular decor in the bedroom or else where in the house. However, when not used properly such pillows will provide hardly any support to the back, which is redundant after investing in a maternity pillow.
U Shaped Pillow
The U shaped pillow provides support from both sides, as well as act as a neck and head pillow. This design is highly popular among pregnant women, who find it a hassle to keep shifting a pillow from side to side when they change sides in the middle of the night. Those who tend to roll a lot in their sleep, benefit from this shape, because it acts as a barrier on both sides, keeping the body secure within its cavity, it also reminds the user, both in conscious and unconscious state, that they about to roll.
This shape of pillow takes up a lot of space and should be considered only by those who have large beds, to give enough space to their partners. It should not be used by anyone with claustrophobia or a feeling of suffocation, it might increase their anxiety, which is not a good sign.
C Shaped Pillow
C shaped pillows are especially useful for those pregnant women who find it extremely difficult to adjust to new positions and stay asleep on the side all night. C shaped pillows are meant to cradle the body, give support to the head and neck and lift up and separate the pelvic area. This also acts as a great cushioning for the knees and back. This shape helps to relieve pain that stems from the pressure of the increasing womb size, which results in pelvic discomfort as well as water retention in the legs.
Wedge Pillow
Using each pillow to its advantage, will increase the benefits one can reap from investing in such a product. The wedge pillow when used incorrectly, will do nothing in terms of helping an expecting mother. It is the smallest in size out of all the maternity pillows, the most affordable too. It is shaped as a wedge as the name suggests. It has a narrow part on one end and a thicker part of the other. The narrow part needs to be placed under the belly, by slightly lifting the belly. This elevates the belly in order to keep it aloft.
By keeping the belly aloft, one is reducing the risk of putting a lot of pressure on the back while also helping themselves stay put in the side position without tipping onto their stomach during deep sleep.
Pregnancy Pillow Positioning Techniques
Conclusion
Getting used to sleeping on the left side, in the right position takes time to get used to. Most struggle for way too long before it becomes a habit. This process need not be too difficult when a maternity pillow is used. As maternity pillows are available in a number of shapes and densities, it is not entirely difficult to find a suitable pillow for each persons unique needs. Sleep during pregnancy in the right position is necessary, for the health of the baby. It also helps to send more oxygen to the womb, improving blood circulation and aid in the growth of the baby.
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