Best Pregnancy Pillows
If you’re expecting a new addition to your family or are looking forward to expecting in the future, you’re probably aware of how your growing body may affect your sleeping patterns. Pregnancy isn’t exactly a time that any woman would describe as “comfortable.” Sleep schedules usually go out the window, and sleep surfaces that used to feel like an oasis of comfort suddenly struggle to serve their purpose. Luckily, there are ways to combat the comfort issues that can arise due to the changing shape of your body as you support the new life growing within. There’s a whole industry dedicated to making pregnancy a little more comfortable, and it would be a huge mistake not to take advantage of that industry while growing that bun in your oven.
Since your rest is crucial to not only your own health, but to the health of your developing baby, picking the sleep aids that can help you rest more comfortably is an important step to consider. There are many maternity pillow styles available for you to choose from, but due to how different each and every body is, you should take the time to research which one you feel would be best for you. How do you determine which pillow will work for you, without going through the costly process of trying them all? Simple, just visit the best sleep product site on the internet and trust in their expertise. Fortunately, you’ve already done that! All you need to do is keep your eyes glued to this page to learn from our experiences!
1. Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow – Editor's Choice
- Filling – 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton
- Density – Medium Plush
- Shape – C-shape
- Warranty – 90 days
2. Queen Rose U-Shaped Total Body Pillow
- Filling – Bionic Polyethylene
- Loft – 8 inches
- Density – Medium Plush
- Warranty – 90 day
3. PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow
- Filling – Poly Fiber
- Loft – 7 inches
- Density – Plush
- Warranty – Lifetime
4. Boppy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
- Filling – High-density foam
- Loft – 4 inches tapered
- Density – Firm
- Warranty – 1 year
5. Pregnancy Pillow Gray Minky Body Pillow
- Filling – Poly Fiber
- Loft – 7 inches
- Density – Plush
- Warranty – 30 days
6. Cozy Bump Pregnancy Pillow
- Filling – Air
- Loft – Adjustable
- Density – Adjustable
- Warranty – N/A
Table Of Contents
- The Best Pregnancy Pillows
- 1. Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow
- 2. Queen Rose U-Shaped Total Body Pillow
- 3. PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow
- 4. Boppy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
- 5. Pregnancy Pillow Gray Minky Body Pillow
- 6. Cozy Bump Pregnancy Pillow
- Types of Pregnancy Pillows
- Wedges
- Full Body Length Pillows
- Total Body Pillows
- Sleep Positions During Pregnancy
- Sleep Position vs. Pillow Comfort
- What to Consider When Choosing a Pregnancy Pillow
- Conclusion
- Recent Updates
- Additional Resources
The Best Pregnancy Pillows
1. Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow – Editor's Choice
Highlights
- Filling – 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton
- Density – Medium Plush
- Shape – C-shape
- Warranty – 90 days
Pros
- All body support
- Alternate covers available
- Relieves hip pressure
Cons
- Takes up a large amount of room
- May retain heat
Made by one of the most popular companies in the pregnancy pillow industry, Leachco set a standard years ago with their innovative comfort designs. Originally developed by a registered nurse and mother, the Snoogle Total Body Pillow can support the hips, back, neck and tummy all at same time. It’s also customizable to allow you to use it in various ways by folding, twisting or reversing it to fit specific support needs. This pillow is quite versatile to suit the needs of almost any mother-to-be.
The total body design is a C-shaped pillow that boasts a cotton cover and a polyester fill that’s machine washable. Although it can be difficult to remove and replace, you can buy a zippered cover to replace the original. Covers also come in a variety of colors to fit your decor. Measuring 60 x 25 inches, and 7 inches tall, this is a great pillow for any stage of pregnancy, and it offers upright support for lounging and nursing when the time comes. The higher loft provides proper head and neck support for side sleeping, and the shape allows for full body support. It’s a popular pillow for anyone looking to alleviate discomfort from injury or surgery, too, as it can help hold your body in position while providing optimal comfort.
2. Queen Rose U-Shaped Total Body Pillow
Highlights
- Filling – Bionic Polyethylene
- Loft – 8 inches
- Density – Medium Plush
- Warranty – 90 day
Pros
- Incredibly versatile
- Excellent for lounging upon
- Good back and belly support
Cons
- Bulky to move around
- May feel too flat for proper head support
The Queen Rose Company specializes in pillow comfort, especially for the expecting mother. This U-shaped design is specific for supporting the discomfort of pregnancy surrounding back and belly needs, as well as supporting joint issues, sciatica and even injury recovery.
This design is made to be versatile for a wide range of needs and can be folded for lounging, wrapped around for arm support, or to cradle for nursing. The long zippered, washable cover also makes it easy to remove and comes in one of two choices – a pink and blue dual sided cover, as well as a gray fleece cover. This is an excellent choice for expectant mothers, as well as anyone needing a supportive position for any sort of recovery that requires you to be positioned a certain way. Although the loft is higher, it does provide cradling support. The plush feel of the pillow allows you to relax without putting undue pressure on joints or strain on your back.
3. PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow
Highlights
- Filling – Poly Fiber
- Loft – 7 inches
- Density – Plush
- Warranty – Lifetime
Pros
- Helps relieve back and neck pain
- Loft is low enough for good side sleeping neck support
- Shapes easily
Cons
- May not be as comfortable for taller people
- Not easy to clean
- Quality and strength of seams may be lacking
PharMeDoc specializes in orthopedic bed pillows, as well as wellness and fitness products. Their maternity pillows are created with overall body comfort in mind and are specific to supporting spinal alignment. The 57-inch length and 30-inch width that’s fully adjustable provides this full body, slightly C-shaped pillow to use at any point in your pregnancy, or even for body pillow support afterward.
This unique design is symmetrical to allow for folding to create a lounging surface as well, but the wider, low loft also provides you with options to create a nest-like sleep experience for belly and back support. It also offers optimal head, neck and leg support. The long zippered, washable, 100% cotton jersey cover is soft and soothing, which helps create a cooler night’s sleep. This is a great design for just about anyone looking for nighttime support for their back and hips. It’s designed for pain alleviation and joint relief, as well as to promote proper sleep posture. The shape and cover are unisex in nature, making it a good choice for anyone looking for a more neutral pillow when used for other supportive uses.
4. Boppy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
Highlights
- Filling – High-density foam
- Loft – 4 inches tapered
- Density – Firm
- Warranty – 1 year
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to travel with
- Great for hip and leg support as well
- Awesome for warm weather sleeping
Cons
- May be too thin for proper cradling
- Could be larger for more overall support
The Boppy Company name has become synonymous over the years with quality products for mom and baby to help make life more comfortable and affordable. Sold by a variety of retailers, their many products are simple and easy to find, and although their pregnancy wedge may not look like much, it’s a popular and incredibly versatile support that can get you to rest easier. The soft jersey cover is easily removable for washing and is a neutral color to match any decor.
Created to address the needs of mothers needing very specific belly support, the Boppy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow is a 4-inch tall, tapered foam wedge that takes on the weight of a heavily pregnant belly to alleviate the stress and strain placed upon the back and hips throughout the night. Not only does this allow your soft tissues to relax properly, it also supports proper spinal alignment and full body blood flow. It also can be used beneath your back to lay against it, or even in various positions while sitting to allow supportive, contouring comfort that fills in the natural curves and arches of the back.
The smaller size of this pillow is great for anyone not wanting the bulk of full length or whole body pillows, but who still need effective support for nighttime comfort. Useful at any point in the pregnancy, the wedge is especially helpful through the later trimesters to help support the weight of the growing baby. This is also a great choice for travel, as it’s light and easy to pack.
5. Pregnancy Pillow Gray Minky Body Pillow
Highlights
- Filling – Poly Fiber
- Loft – 7 inches
- Density – Plush
- Warranty – 30 days
Pros
- Unique shape
- Provides excellent tummy support
- Good head and shoulder support
Cons
- May sleep warm
- May be too soft for some
This pillow is designed with one thing in mind: nighttime pregnancy support. This shapeable, total body pillow was created to allow for added belly support, as well as added comfort for head, neck, hip and back positioning. The unique shape and construction allows for some slight shaping, which boasts a full 85-inch length to take advantage of to lay upon, or wrap yourself in throughout the night.
The cover comes in two choices: a cotton blend or soft minky material that unzips easily for washing purposes. It’s also offered in a variety of colors to provide you with decor choice. The shape allows for easier storage as it folds and bends quite well to tuck away after use, despite its relative bulk. If you’ve been looking for something different, or have yet to find a full length or total pillow that works for you, this may be a good choice to consider as it applies the many details that are popular for full body support – without much of the added bulk. Although made for back and belly support, it works best for those who focus on one or the other due to the shape of its supportive center.
6. Cozy Bump Pregnancy Pillow
Highlights
- Filling – Air
- Loft – Adjustable
- Density – Adjustable
- Warranty – N/A
Pros
- Suited for stomach sleepers
- Adjustable headrest doubles as a pillow
- Relieves lower back pain and tension
- Can be used as a pool float
- Uses any standard air bed pump
- Fully adjustable firmness and height
Cons
- Doesn’t come with pump
Pregnancy can make all sleeping positions more uncomfortable, but when it comes to sleeping on your stomach, your baby bump can make matters downright impossible. However, with a specially designed pillow, you can still enjoy your favorite sleeping position safely and comfortably. This inflatable maternity pillow has a hole in the middle to accommodate your baby bump, even when you’re lying on it. The adjustable belly rim makes sure your baby is safe and your belly is supported properly while you’re napping.
For added comfort, the overall design meets the needs of pregnant stomach sleepers: the gradual decline of the leg and chest cut-out area allows for a natural and supportive sleeping position. The adjustable headrest can also double as a pillow, making this inflatable pillow all you really need for a good night’s rest.
Types of Pregnancy Pillows
Not all pregnancy pillows are made the same, their shapes and construction are as different from one another as your body type might be from another person’s. You may find that different pillows work well in each stage of your pregnancy, or what works for one person may not work for another. The important thing to remember is that you should consider what each type is used for to best determine your comfort level, and which pillow is right for you.
Wedges
Wedges may not look like much, but their small size may give you just the support you need. Although they don’t take up much room in your bed, they can be used in a variety of ways to support your upper back, stomach and even your lower back while sitting. They’re also great to take along for travel. Usually, they’re made of firm foam that gives in to pressure, but also provides the support you need without breaking down during the night.
Full Body Length Pillows
Full body pillows are typically 4 to 5 feet in length and can either be used with or without your regular pillow. These are typically straight in nature or provide some slight curve for better comfort. They usually have a pillowcase that slips over the pillow and is made of polyester, with a foam bead fill for body contouring.
Total Body Pillows
Total body pillows are hybrid pillows that provide a full-length support, head support and occasionally, even whole body wrap-around support. These types of pillows can be ideal for the late stages of pregnancy, and even can be used afterward due to the variety of ways it can be shaped. They usually have a pillowcase of some sort and are filled with a polyfill for easy cleaning.
Sleep Positions During Pregnancy
No matter what your natural sleep position tendencies are, as your baby begins to grow you’ll most likely find yourself having to adjust your comfort to accommodate your changing body. Most women find that a side sleeping position becomes the easiest and most comfortable position to rest in, and most maternity pillows are constructed to help you sleep comfortably this way.
Later in pregnancy, many women may experience heartburn, making any position that has your head more levelled with the rest of your body uncomfortable. This is when raising your upper body slightly can help, and sleeping on your back with your upper body elevated may provide the relief you need.
Using pillows under or between your knees, lower back or even your neck can help promote spinal alignment. It allows your body to roll more naturally into a relaxing position, so you can get the sleep you deserve.
Sleep Position vs. Pillow Comfort
The maternity pillow is a versatile product that can be used to help you get more comfortable with your changing stages of pregnancy. Your pillow choices are already an important consideration to support your overall health, and this is even more so when pregnant. As with any sleep product, your comfort is entirely dependent upon your individual needs and preferences. What you need to watch out for are ways to alleviate the stresses you feel upon your body.
Back Sleep Position Needs
When sleeping on your back, it’s always important to keep your head and neck in alignment with the rest of your spine. Typically, a thinner pillow is the best choice for this position, but as you shift to your side to move your weight, you may feel strain in your lower back and will need a slightly higher pillow loft.
Back pain and stress are common complaints of pregnant women due to the constant pressure on the soft tissues that are moving and reshaping themselves to accommodate body changes. It’s especially important to allow the back to rest properly throughout the night.
Side Sleep Position Needs
Side sleepers may find that they’re well accommodated until later in their pregnancy, when the weight of the baby begins to pull downwards and create strain on their back. They also may find that they’re unable to place their legs in the same position without feeling discomfort. Using a pillow that allows for total belly support, back support to lean upon if needed, and even in between leg support is often preferred when this begins to occur.
By creating a supportive position, you can keep your body in the correct alignment for optimal blood flow and an uninterrupted night’s rest.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pregnancy Pillow
Before making a purchase of any kind, you should always look over your product benefits and features to help you decide what may work best for you, or if you need to continue your search. Some of the few things you should consider are listed below, and be sure to always review customer ratings to help you determine your best fit.
How far along in your pregnancy are you?
Your comfort at the beginning of your pregnancy will have changed drastically by the end of your pregnancy. Stomach sleepers can get away with sleeping on their stomach for the first few months, but will need something that helps cradle their body better when they’re much further along.
What seasons will you be pregnant through?
Pregnancy will often make you hot. You may love the look of that flannel pillow cover (often interchangeable with a cooler cover), but if you need the pillow through any type of warm season, it may not be what you want later on. You may also dislike the feel of a full body design due to possible heat retention.
What are your typical sleep preferences?
If you have to change your position due to your pregnancy, then you definitely want to look for body support. Stomach and back sleepers will most likely want some sort of support behind them that keeps them comfortable on their side. Side sleepers will usually want something to support their stomach, too.
Do you want a versatile pillow?
Many pillows can be used during pregnancy, and afterward as well. Some can be folded or used to support differing positions, for upright support, or even work for nursing the baby.
Conclusion
As with many pillows, personal comfort is a major factor to consider, especially due to the ever-changing nature of pregnancy. Choosing from the many different shapes and styles can be a difficult decision, which is why we’ve provided more detail for each of the above choices. In some cases, you may find mixing and matching pillows, or using certain ones during different stages of pregnancy may help with your overall sleep comfort.
When narrowing down your choices, take into consideration your natural sleep position and your own preferences to determine what will work best for you. Also, keep in mind the signs your own body is telling you surrounding stress and strain upon your back and hips to determine where extra support may be needed.
Recent Updates
September 30, 2021: The Cozy Bump Pregnancy Pillow has been added to our roundup due to increased popularity among reviewers. Additional Resources and more FAQs have also been included to refer readers to related content, as well as address common customer queries.