A pillow is more than a staple for sleep and lounging comfort. For many years, the medical community has relied on the use of various pillows for therapeutic use. These include wedge pillows to relieve gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD), convexed pillows to use between the knees to aid in hip and spine alignment, and curved lumbar cushions for better workplace ergonomics. More recently, the industry has grown to address the needs of women.
Labor and birthing classes, such as the Lamaze method, make use of pillows to support many of their recommended labor positions. On that note, it comes as no surprise that the medical supply industry would be inclined to develop products specifically to serve pregnant women.
Branded as pregnancy or maternity pillows, these elongated U-shaped pillows are designed to support your back as your baby bump grows. Whether you lean to the right or to the left, your head, neck, back and abdominal area (and growing baby) will be universally supported. The pillows come in a variety of fabric choices, sizes, and densities including memory foam.
Once the baby or babies arrive, you’ll need to feed them. Mommies often turn to nursing pillows for help. Many women have found that a nursing pillow helps create a more comfortable position for both baby and mom.
The majority of nursing pillows are a C-shaped design. The pillows lay in your lap and cradle the baby while elevating the baby up to the breast. This shape can also provide support to a seated or partially reclined baby.
Another popular design looks a bit like a bassinet and includes foldable layers. This offers more control and versatility. A nursing pillow is not a one-size fits all purchase, so you may decide you prefer to buy a few varieties.
You may have read that using a pillow under the hips may be favorable during intimacy and to promote conception. The industry has developed a wide range of pillows that may help improve chances of fertilization.
Remember, many factors go into the success of conception. If you find yourself having difficulty with conception, we invite you to make an appointment to learn more about how we might be able to help.
Choosing a pillow is a lot like choosing a mattress. There are different sizes, shapes, materials, and functions to consider, and what works for one person might not work for you. The Wife Choice offers a basic guide about factors to consider. Following this guide should give you a place to start when looking for your perfect pillow.
If access to pregnancy pillows in your area presents a challenge, look at product descriptions for the materials list. Head over to your local quality bedding store and find regular pillows made of the same things. You might have to use a few pillows as your test, but at least you won’t place an order completely in the dark. Don’t be shy to ask your midwife for suggestions.
As you set out to select your pillow, you might want to purchase a couple of varieties that you like. If you don’t have time to comparison shop, and feel comfortable ordering online, consider selections with many product details and a good return policy.