Choosing and using a pregnancy pillow

Waiting time for a child is a special period in the life of every family. Parents prepare a "dowry" for the baby, numerous diapers, undershirts and bottles. And it is very important at this time not to forget about mommy, and to make sure that she has a special pillow for pregnant women.

Why do you need such a pillow

Probably, the older generation will want to argue about the need for such a pillow. Of course, in the days of our grandmothers and mothers, there was nothing like this, but they were able to safely endure and give birth to healthy babies. However, the 21st century is outside the window, and if things have been invented that will make your life more comfortable, why not use them.
The main advantages of a specialized pillow:

1. Thanks to her, it becomes possible to find a comfortable position while sleeping, watching TV and reading books.
2. The load on the body of the expectant mother decreases, since, starting from about 4 months of pregnancy, the tummy is noticeably rounded. The pillow can be used as a support for the lower back, rounded sides, legs.
3. If you put such a pillow under your belly, you will not feel the discomfort, as is the case with conventional pillows.
4. Due to the fact that the load is evenly distributed, the pressure on the spine is reduced.
5. After the birth of a child, such a pillow is often used to organize an impromptu playpen so that the child does not fall out of bed.
6. During breastfeeding, the maternity pillow reduces stress on the back muscles. This is especially important if the baby is eating slowly.
7. Even if you are lucky enough to give birth to twins, feeding with this accessory will not be inconvenient.
8. Finally, thanks to the maternity pillow, you can teach your baby to sit.

Forms

Today there is a sufficient assortment of different types of pillows. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

U-shaped

This pillow is very similar in shape to a horseshoe, which is why it is sometimes called that way. It is considered the most popular. And there is an explanation for this:

• Evenly supports the abdomen and back.
• Ideal for those who cannot imagine a night's rest without wrapping themselves in a blanket like in a cocoon.
• If during sleep you constantly toss and turn from side to side, the pillow will not have to be turned over, as it is symmetrical.

But there are also disadvantages:

• For such a model, you will need enough space, so you simply cannot fit on a small bed.
• If you feel sad about sleeping alone, then you will have to give up the U-shaped pillow too.

Bagel

With such a pillow it will be convenient for you not only to sleep, but also to watch TV, read books and even eat.

Advantages of the model:

• Wraps your body completely.
• It will comfortably accommodate your head and back (or belly).
• Perfect for a small berth.

Disadvantages: if you sleep on one side, then on the other, the pillow will have to be turned over, since in one of the positions your tummy will be left without support.

G-shaped

This model appeared relatively recently, but has already been able to conquer its audience. Here are just a few reasons why you should choose this model:

• Thanks to it, you can relax and relieve muscle tension.
• There are different options for using it: you can put your head on it, wrap your legs around it, lean your back or put it under your stomach.
• Indispensable for daytime relaxation.

And there is only one drawback: the tail of the letter "G" can be uncomfortable during sleep. In general, you just need to adapt to this model.

Banana pillow

It also has the name "C-shaped", and is also designed specifically for expectant mothers. This model must be chosen depending on the height of the woman: for tall models, 190x30 are suitable, and for miniature mothers - 170x30.
The main advantages of this model:

• Takes up a minimum of space.
• Supports back or abdomen well.
• It will allow you to sleep on your side, and this fact is especially valuable for women in late pregnancy.
• Can be used during the day for half-sitting or reclining positions while watching TV or reading books.
• If desired, such a pillow can be taken with you on a trip, it will not take up much space.

The C-shaped pillow has no obvious drawbacks.

L-shaped model

This pillow is a long bolster with a slight rounding for the head. It does not take up much space and is very functional. There is only one drawback: if you roll over in a dream from one side to the other, the pillow also needs to be turned over, otherwise it will be uncomfortable to sleep.

I-shaped

It looks like a long roller. Sold in the following sizes: 170x30 and 190x30. The size is chosen depending on the height, as well as your personal preference.

You should buy this particular model for the following reasons:

1. Compact.
2. Provides complete rest for your body.
3. Reduces stress on the cervical joints and spine.
4. Helps relieve muscle tension.
5. One of the most budgetary models.

This model has no serious drawbacks.

And yet, choosing a model, you should focus on your own feelings and preferences. The best maternity pillow is the one you like!

Excipients

The debate about which filler is better is no less hot than the debate about which shape of the pillow for pregnant women is the best.

Most often, the choice is made either in favor of expanded polystyrene or in favor of holofiber.

Expanded polystyrene - a filler made of small balls. It is completely safe, it will never get mold, mites and other animals due to its synthetic origin. This filler conforms to the shape of your body, thereby guaranteeing maximum comfort. In addition, such a pillow will not spring, which is also important for expectant mothers.

Why should you pay attention to styrofoam pillows?

• They are very lightweight.
• Eco-friendly.
• Hypoallergenic.
• Water repellent.
• Non-absorbent odors.
• These pillows will not start fungus, mold or mites.
• They have a long service life.

These pillows are easy to wash and dry. And the main disadvantage is the high price. Although, looking at the impressive list of advantages, we can conclude that the price is fully justified.

Holofiber is a hollow fiber bonded at high temperatures. The main advantage is ease of care, because it can even be washed at home.

Arguments in favor of a holofiber pillow:

1. Hypoallergenic.
2. It is water-repellent.
3. Does not absorb odors.
4. It does not grow parasites and mold.
5. It can be used for a long time.
6. It retains its shape, which means that each such pillow has a slight spring effect.

Pillowcase fabrics

One of the main indicators that distinguish a quality pillow from consumer goods is its layering. The first layer envelops the filler (holofiber, expanded polystyrene, synthetic winterizer, etc.). The main requirement for this fabric is density and strength, so that the filler does not "slip" through the fabric fibers.Most often, satin or calico is used for this purpose.

The second layer is a removable pillowcase. It should be durable and pleasant to the touch. Natural materials are usually chosen. But in choosing a top pillowcase, it is best to rely on your own feelings, because it is you who will have to directly contact the pillow for a long time.

If you plan to use a nursing pillow in the future, you should be prepared for frequent washing, so pay special attention to how easy the pillowcase is to remove.

For pillowcases, cotton, linen, velor or knitted fabric are most often used. Velor will effectively complement the stylish interior of your bedroom. Linen pillowcases are indispensable for the warm season. Well, knitwear and cotton are considered versatile materials.

How to use

How to use the pregnancy pillow? The question is quite logical, since some women note that at first the pillow seemed inappropriate and completely uncomfortable. However, after a few nights, they no longer knew how to do without her.

1. There are no hard and fast rules on how exactly the pillow should be positioned during your rest, so do not hesitate to look for positions that will be convenient for you personally: put the pillow under your side, under your stomach, or hug it with your legs.
2. Feel free to twist and roll this accessory. It is elastic enough, which means it will take the shape you need.
3. Do not hesitate to consult your gynecologist. By the way, this pillow was developed by gynecologists in tandem with orthopedists, so your doctor will certainly give some useful advice.
4. After giving birth, use a pillow to help feed your baby. To do this, wrap the pillow around you in such a way that one half of it is behind your back, and the other is in your lap. During feeding it will be comfortable for your back, as the load is reduced, and your hands will be free, since the baby is securely "fixed" by the side of the pillow.
5. And if the baby has already grown a little, the pillow will replace your playpen, protecting the baby from falls.
6. And most importantly, carefully consider the choice of such an unusual pillow so that it is of high quality and you like it.

How to sew with your own hands

If you cannot get a pillow for pregnant women, or you do not like the proposed models, try sewing it yourself. This is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance.

Tools and materials:

• Sewing machine.
• Threads and needles.
• Scissors.
• Pencil and paper for the pattern.
• Pillow fabric.
• Pillowcase fabric.
• Filler.

The main advantage of a handmade pillow is the ability to make the perfect model for your size.

First, we put the pattern on the paper and cut it out. Fold the fabric in half, right side inward. We connect the center of the pattern with the fold of the fabric. For greater accuracy, we pin the pattern to the fabric, carefully circle it with chalk and cut it out, not forgetting to make allowances for the seams. Someone more like to make a pattern completely, without folding it in half - and such a decision is possible, do as it is convenient for you.

After the cutting process, you should have two identical pieces. They need to be folded face-in and basted. After that, we sew on a typewriter, leaving about 20 centimeters so that it is convenient to fill the pillow with filler. After stitching, turn out the product and put in the filler. We sew up the unstitched part by hand or on a typewriter.

Now, according to the existing pattern, we cut out two more parts, already for the pillowcase. It is better to add 1 cm to the pattern, so to speak, "for the freedom to fit" the pillowcase. And to make the pillowcase easy to remove, sew in a zipper.

The maternity pillow can be safely called a modern invention. And, despite the simplicity of the design, such a thing can make the life of a future mother easier. Moreover, you can use it not only during pregnancy, but also after. And if it is not possible to purchase, sew it yourself.

Video: how to choose a pillow for a pregnant woman?