If you’re pregnant, finding a comfortable sleeping position can become a challenge as your body changes. The right maternity pillow can be a game-changer, offering support to your back, belly, and hips to help you sleep better. Below, we’ll break down the best pregnancy pillows for different needs, so you can pick the one that suits you best.

What Are the Different Types of Pregnancy Pillows?

Pregnancy pillows come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to address different discomforts. Here’s a look at the most popular types:

U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillows

U-shaped pillows provide full-body support, cradling you on both sides to align your spine, support your belly, and keep your hips in place. They are ideal for those who tend to switch sides during the night, offering support no matter your sleeping position.

C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillows

C-shaped pillows wrap around your body like a hug, offering great belly and back support. You can also adjust this style to relieve pressure on your knees and hips, making it versatile for different sleep styles.

Wedge Pregnancy Pillows

If you’re looking for something smaller, wedge pillows are a compact option. These pillows can be placed under your belly, behind your back, or between your knees to target specific pressure points. They’re budget-friendly and perfect if you’re limited on space.

How to Choose the Right Pregnancy Pillow for You

When shopping for a maternity pillow, consider these key factors to make the best decision for your needs:

Size

The size of your pregnancy pillow should depend on your available space and sleep preferences. Full-body pillows like U-shaped or C-shaped options take up a lot of room, while smaller pillows, such as wedges, are better for compact spaces.

Material

Look for breathable fabrics, especially if you tend to overheat at night. Many maternity pillows are made with cotton covers for comfort, while the filling can range from soft polyester to firmer foam.

Support Level

The amount of support you need will depend on where you experience the most discomfort. If back pain is your main issue, a firmer pillow may help keep your spine aligned. For belly and hip support, softer, more flexible pillows might be more comfortable.

The Best Pregnancy Pillows to Buy in 2024

Let’s dive into the top pregnancy pillows that have been recommended by expectant moms and sleep experts alike.

1. Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow

Why It’s a Top Pick This pillow from Frida Mom is an excellent choice, especially for first-time moms. Its adjustable, segmented design allows it to be reshaped into C, I, L, or U positions, making it highly versatile for various comfort needs throughout your pregnancy. While it might take a little time to learn how to adjust the segments, once you do, switching between shapes becomes intuitive, and they stay in place well.

What makes this pillow even more appealing is its compact size. Unlike larger pregnancy pillows that can dominate your bed, this one is more manageable and won’t crowd your sleeping space. Additionally, the zippered packaging doubles as a convenient storage or travel case, making it easy to take with you.

Consider This The pillow is filled with lightweight polystyrene beads, similar to what you’d find in a bean bag. While this helps promote airflow and keeps the pillow cool, some may not prefer the feel of these beads.

Product Details:

• Shape: Versatile, adjustable into C, I, L, and U shapes.
• Dimensions: 12 x 21 x 4.5 inches.
• Materials: Made with a blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex for the cover, and filled with expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads.
• Care Instructions: Machine-washable cover; use cold water and a gentle cycle.

2. Best U-Shaped Pillow: Koncen Maternity Pillow

Why It’s a Great Choice

A U-shaped pillow offers full-body support, making it a go-to option for those who need extra comfort while sleeping. Its unique design cradles both your belly and back simultaneously, thanks to the curves on both sides of the pillow. This feature is especially beneficial for side sleepers who frequently change positions during the night, as the U-shape provides consistent support from either side.

Dr. Shepherd points out that this style of pillow is particularly well-suited for those expecting twins, as it can accommodate a larger belly and provide enhanced support. The expansive size makes it ideal for moms-to-be who need additional comfort during the later stages of pregnancy.

Keep in Mind

While U-shaped pillows offer incredible support, they are typically on the larger side and come with a higher price tag. However, their versatility makes them a worthwhile investment—they can be folded to provide seated support, neck comfort, or even accommodate a partner sharing the bed with you.

Product Details:

• Shape: U-shaped
• Dimensions: 55 x 28.5 x 8.15 inches
• Materials: Cover:Cotton and bamboo ; memory foam filling
• Care: Machine washable cover

3. Boppy Side Sleeper

Why It’s a Great Option

This pillow features a unique double-bean design that provides support to both your belly and back. Positioned between the two cushioned sections, your body rests on a stretchable panel that encourages side sleeping, helping you maintain this position throughout the night. Unlike some pillows that need constant repositioning, the middle panel secures your position even if you shift sides.

According to Dr. Shepherd, side sleeping is the best position during pregnancy, as recommended by the American Pregnancy Association. This position promotes better circulation for both the mother and baby, reduces pressure on internal organs, and enhances blood flow to the placenta. Additionally, side sleeping helps minimize the risk of swelling and varicose veins in the legs.

If you’re typically a back or stomach sleeper, a pregnancy pillow can make transitioning to side sleeping more comfortable, offering gentle guidance as your body adjusts.

Things to Consider

This pillow’s compact size makes it a space-saving option, and it comes at an affordable price point. It’s a practical choice for those finding it difficult to sleep on their side. Another advantage is that both the pillow and its cover are machine washable, making it easy to maintain. However, it only comes with one floral-patterned pillowcase, which may not match every décor preference.

Product Details:

• Shape: Unique two-bean shape
• Dimensions: ‎24 x 14 x 7 inches
• Materials: Cotton-spandex blend cover, polyester fiber filling
• Care: Both pillow and cover are machine washable

4. PharMeDoc CeeCee Pregnancy Pillow

Why It’s a Great Pick

A C-shaped pregnancy pillow contours around your body, offering support to your head, neck, and pelvis. It’s a budget-friendly way to test out a pregnancy pillow if you’re unsure of investing in a larger or more expensive option.

The cover is made from jersey cotton, which feels as soft as your favorite t-shirt. Available in several color options, the cover can be easily removed and washed, and the durable hidden zipper ensures that you won’t feel any discomfort from the zipper while resting.

Samantha Hutten, a mother of two, shares that this type of pillow was particularly helpful during her second pregnancy when she experienced significant back and neck pain. The pillow’s size also makes it versatile for postpartum use, such as for added comfort or even as a nursing pillow.

Things to Keep in Mind

If you are taller than average, this pillow may not offer the ideal fit, but for most people, its 4.5-foot length works well. Be aware that it will take up a good amount of space in your bed. The flexibility of the C-shape is another advantage—it can be adjusted into different positions to support activities like reading, watching TV, or elevating your legs.

Product Details:

• Shape: C-shaped
• Dimensions: 57 x 30 x 5 inches
• Materials: 100% jersey cotton cover; polyfill insert
• Care: Removable and machine washable cover

5. Best for Hip Pain: Knee Pillow

Why It’s a Great Solution

If you’re suffering from hip or leg discomfort during pregnancy, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider to explore safe relief options. A well-designed pregnancy pillow could be an effective alternative to medication, offering support where you need it most.

As Dr. Shepherd points out, pregnancy pillows are especially valuable when sleep is disrupted by pain, and since many pain relievers are not safe during pregnancy, using a pillow can be a great way to manage discomfort naturally.

What to Consider

Hip pain is often caused by the added pressure of your growing belly. Keeping your hips in proper alignment while you sleep may help relieve some of that pressure, easing pain in both your hips and lower back. However, if you need more comprehensive body support, you might want to consider a larger or different pillow that addresses more areas of the body.

Product Details:

• Shape: Contoured heart shape
• Dimensions: 6 x 10 x 10 inches
• Materials: Polyester-lyocell pillowcase, polyurethane fill
• Care: Machine washable cover

When Should You Start Using a Pregnancy Pillow?

Most women begin using pregnancy pillows during the second trimester when belly growth starts to impact sleep. However, there’s no set rule — you can start using a pregnancy pillow whenever you feel discomfort, whether it’s from back pain, hip strain, or trouble finding a comfortable position.

FAQs About Pregnancy Pillows

Do I Really Need a Pregnancy Pillow?

While not everyone needs a pregnancy pillow, many moms find that they significantly improve sleep quality by relieving pressure on the hips, back, and belly. If you’re struggling to get comfortable at night, a pregnancy pillow is definitely worth trying.

Can a Pregnancy Pillow Help with Back Pain?

Yes, many pregnancy pillows are designed to alleviate back pain by promoting proper spinal alignment. U-shaped and C-shaped pillows are especially helpful for back support.

How Do I Clean My Pregnancy Pillow?

Most pregnancy pillows come with removable, machine-washable covers. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s care instructions, as some pillows also allow you to wash the inner filling.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for full-body support or something more compact, there’s a pregnancy pillow out there to suit your needs. From U-shaped pillows that offer head-to-toe comfort to wedges that provide targeted support, the right pillow can make all the difference in getting a good night’s sleep during pregnancy. Remember to consider your sleep habits, the level of support you need, and the space in your bed when choosing your perfect pillow.