When I was pregnant with my son, he’d flutter around a bit during the day, but naturally he was most active when I’d finally settle into bed for the night. Sure, it was magical to feel Brandon moving around, but especially as we both grew and things got a bit more uncomfortable, I found myself wishing for something that would help me sleep better. So after I’d exhausted myself (no joke!) looking at baby items on a weekend nesting trip, I decided to browse maternity pillows. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes so it wasn’t easy choosing just one, but any of these options will help you get the rest and relaxation you need before baby arrives.
3-in-1 Body Pillow by My Brest Friend. This remarkably soft, full-body pillow provides both leg and head support without taking over the bed (essential if you have another child who routinely jumps in yours). But the real gem is the attached wedge which provides the necessary support to keep your belly comfortable even in the later stages of pregnancy. While you won’t be putting a standard pillowcase on it, the included removable and washable cover serves the same purpose. $47.
Boppy Pregnancy Wedge. A very versatile pillow, the wedge can be adjusted to provide just the right amount of support for a growing belly or placed between the knees to relieve strain on widening hips. Plus, with its small size, it won’t send your partner hunting for space on the couch. Once your little one is born, the wedge can slide under the baby’s crib mattress to elevate his or her head. $16.
Leachco Snoogle by Leachco Maternity Pillows. With several different ways it can be used, the Snoogle fills multiple roles. It supports the head and legs with the end curls, can be placed on either side of your body for belly support, or can be used as a back prop. To make sure that customers are able to get the most out of their purchase, each pillow ships with instructions showing eight different ways to wind, coil, and curl it to support comfortable sleep, nursing or sitting. Both standard and extra long versions are available, plus an organic one for eco-conscious moms. Regular, $65; XL, $80; organic, $80.
Serenity Star Pillow by Moonlight Slumber. This hypoallergenic, U-shaped pillow cushions the head and cradles each side of the body. It provides both belly support and something to lean back against when lying on one’s side, and doesn’t require repositioning when turning over during the night. The Serenity Star can be disassembled into two bolsters and a center U-section that make great breast-feeding support pillows. $100.
Today’s Mom Cozy Comfort Pregnancy Pillow (pictured). While its large size can seem intimidating at first, the Cozy Comfort provides expectant moms with excellent support for the back, legs and belly as well as a comfortable place to rest their heads. It doesn’t take up nearly as much space as you might think, and the relief it provides from shoulder, back and hip pain would be worth it even if it did. Included with the pillow is a zippered cover which is easily removable for cleaning. $80.