It can be very uncomfortable having to sleep on your back with a big belly. If you suffer from back pain, or even just get restless when you sleep then a pregnancy pillow for back pain is a must have! Discover how to use a pregnancy pillow for back pain with this guide. The benefits of pregnancy pillows are plentiful, and that’s why so many women use them. It can be difficult to find the correct pillow for you, though. Make sure that you are sleeping on a comfortable bed, with your head in the right position and supported by a pillow made for pregnant women.

Getting a good night’s sleep is important for both you and your baby. If you are pregnant, however, it can be more challenging to do so. Side sleepers and back sleepers with pregnancy will find that using a pregnancy pillow for back pain can help prevent an uncomfortable night’s sleep and make their days more manageable.

A pregnancy pillow is the perfect pillow for supporting your growing bump, providing you with more comfort to rest, sleep and relax. If you have ever suffered for back pain during pregnancy, rest assured that a pregnancy pillow will be able to help relieve your pain and provide you with optimum sleep. What makes a pregnancy pillow so ideal for pregnant women suffering from back discomfort? As the pregnancy progresses, a woman’s body undergoes some incredible changes to accommodate her baby inside. The hormones progesterone and relaxin prepare the joints in your lower body for delivery. This can cause uneven swelling and lead to discomfort around the hips, ankles and pelvic bones but also puts pressure on muscles which support your spine. A pregnancy pillow is a firm, body-shaped pillow that provides back, neck and belly support for moms-to-be. Unlike a body pillow, it’s shorter and thicker so that your legs don’t get trapped beneath it as you sleep. If you suffer from sciatica or disk problems, sleeping with an extra firm pillow between your knees to keep your pelvis in alignment can help relieve some of the pressure on these areas. You can also use a pregnancy pillow to prop yourself up slightly while working at the computer desk so that your back is less strained by being slouched over the keyboard

Pregnancy pillows are designed to promote the correct alignment of the body so that you can sleep comfortably. Some pillows are curved, some have adjustable height and/or width. It all depends on your comfort and preference.

Are Pregnancy Pillows Good For Back Pain

Yes, pregnancy pillows are good for back pain. Most of them are fluffy and soft, very comfortable to sleep on. When you use a pregnancy pillow in the right way, you can reduce the pressure on your lower back and get a better night’s sleep.

Pregnancy pillows are great for relieving back pain that comes along with pregnancy. The pregnancy pillow is made of a material that will mold to the shape of your body, so you get optimal comfort and support during the night. Pregnancy pillows are great for everything from digestive issues, to back problems and night sweats, but did you know that there are specific pregnancy pillows that are designed to help relieve back pain as well? Pregnancy pillows can be used in so many ways than just your belly.

Pregnancy pillows are great for alleviating pregnancy-related discomfort, such as backache. A pregnancy pillow can also help support your growing belly and give you a comfy place to sleep. Pregnancy pillows are great for reducing back pain during pregnancy. They can provide much-needed spinal support, so you can be more comfortable while resting. They also help relieve hip and body aches that often accompany pregnancy.

A pregnancy pillow can help relieve back pain by supporting your spine, cushioning your hips and providing support for your growing belly. The U-shaped design is ideal for pregnant women who sleep on their sides, as it helps reduce strain on the stomach muscles. Many models come with removable coverlets for easy washing.

Which Pregnancy Pillow Is Best For Back Pain

A pregnancy pillow can help reduce back pain and aid in a better sleep. It’s there to support your growing belly and throw an arm around for added relief. If you have back pain during your pregnancy, it is important to find a pillow that will help you sleep comfortably. The Leachco Snoogle Chic Jersey Total Body Pillow is specifically designed to provide support while sleeping on your side or back. This full body maternity pillow also reduces the stress and strain on your hips, pelvis and spine which can ease some of the aches associated with pregnancy according to physiotherapists.

If you’ve ever experienced back pain during pregnancy, you’ll understand why having proper support is key to a comfortable night’s sleep. A body pillow can offer extra support along your back and under your legs, which helps eliminate pressure points on your spine.

The Snoogle pillow is a maternity pillow that is designed to support your hips and back during pregnancy. This is the best pregnancy pillow for side sleepers, snorers, and back sleepers. The Tranquility Total Body Pillow is designed to give support for all stages of pregnancy, as well as for nursing and carrying babies. It’s available in a number of sizes and provides ample space for back, belly, hips and head support. The soft fabric cover comes in a variety of colors but can’t be washed or removed for cleaning.

Best Overall: Leachco Snoogle Maternity Body Pillow

4.8

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Pros

• Follows natural contour/shape of your body
• Removable sham-style cover

Cons

• Bulky

Because it follows the natural contour and shape of your body and provides support right where you need it, the Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow is our top choice. What we love most about this C-shaped pillow is that it supports your body from head to toe, including your back, knees, head, and stomach. The horseshoe-shaped head pillow allows for proper positioning and height, while the extra-long midsection is perfect for total back or tummy support, depending on how you position the pillow.

Made with 100% sateen cotton—which won’t trap body heat—the pillow has a 300 thread count, so it’s soft to the touch. The removable sham-style cover is also machine washable, making it super easy to keep clean. When a registered nurse—who is also a mom—develops a product, you can bet it’ll be a good one. 

Dimensions: 60 x 24.75 x 7.25 inches | Material: Sateen cotton | Shape: C-shape

Best Budget: hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge

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Pros

• Two-sided design
• Travel-friendly

Cons

• Will only support one body area instead of full body

It’s not necessary to plunk down your life’s savings to get a great pregnancy pillow, and the Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge is a good example of that. Another compact choice, the two-sided design of the pillow allows you to decide if you prefer deluxe, soft memory foam, or the firmer support foam of the second side.

Reduce swelling in your hands, legs, and feet by relieving back tension, or place it under your belly or knees to help you feel more comfortable at night. The pillow can help relieve nerve pain and leg numbness, as well. The small shape of this pillow makes it easy to travel with.

Dimensions: 13.25 x 15 x 4.5 inches | Material: Memory foam | Shape: Wedge

Best Organic: Yana 360 Degrees Body Pillow

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Pros

• Made of organic bamboo and cotton
• Choose your own filling material
• Contoured design

Cons

• Costly
• Odor possible upon opening

Recommended by Dr. Basu, the Yana 360 Body Pillow is a U-shape body pillow that has a contoured design to wrap comfortably around your growing body. Made from organic cotton and bamboo, this pillow washes easily with a gentle detergent and can be tumbled dried on low. 

Whether you choose the natural latex or cooling gel filling option, you’ll feel supported in multiple areas of the body, like your back or legs. And, you can easily tie the pillow into a knot for compact storage.

Dimensions: 55 x 28.5 inches | Material: Cotton and bamboo | Shape: U-shape

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Best Adjustable: Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow

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Pros

• Adjustable
• Soft fabric
• Micro-bead filling

Cons

• Could use more fluff/beads
• Beads make mess if ripped

No matter what maternity pillow shape you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it in this pregnancy pillow from Frida Mom. This pillow twists and squishes into four different maternity pillow shapes for optimal comfort: C,I,L or U-shape. Thanks to multiple shape options, this pillow supports your belly, legs, and back so you can sleep comfortably. 

The pillow has a micro-bead filling to help you find the most comfortable position, and features a machine washable cover for a quick clean. Plus, the pillow comes in a convenient storage bag you can use to take it with you to the hospital.

Dimensions: 54 x 9 x 9 inches | Material: Polyester, nylon, and spandex | Shape: Adjustable (C,I,L, or U)

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Best for Sleeping: PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow

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Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Supports back, hips, knees, and head

Cons

• Bulky

Another C-shaped pregnancy pillow option, the PharMeDoc Full Body Pregnancy Pillow supports your back, hips, knees, neck, and head for optimal sleep, and allows you to easily rearrange your positioning based on your current needs.

Pick from several different color options, and the zipper removable pillow cover is machine-washable, hypoallergenic, and contains zero phthalates, latex, or lead, and is BPA-free.

Dimensions: 30 x 57 x 7 inches | Material: Jersey knit cotton (cover) | Shape: C-shape

Best Multipurpose: Boppy Total Body Pillow

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Pros

• Contoured design
• Machine washable
• Soft fabric

Cons

• Fabric feels a bit scratchy

No matter how you like to sleep, the Boppy Total Body Pillow has you covered from head to toe thanks to its contoured design. The pillow’s full-body design can be used for support during pregnancy and the fourth trimester. 

Both the slipcover and the pillow itself are machine washable, making cleaning a breeze. The pillow weighs just under 5 pounds, and measures 48 x 25 x 8 inches, so it doesn’t take up too much space.

Dimensions: 48 x 25 x 8 inches | Material: Polyester, rayon, and cotton | Shape: C-shape

Best Full Pillow: QUEEN ROSE Pregnancy Pillow

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Pros

• Total body coverage
• Soft
• Can add or take away filling to customize firmness

Cons

• Big
• Heavy

The unique “U” shape of this maternity pillow allows for maximum support while sleeping. Rather than deciding between two ways to sleep with it, the shape of this pillow allows for full support of the belly, back, neck, and legs, all at the same time. If you’re looking for total body coverage, this is likely a good option.

Color options include blue, gray, and a blue and pink combination. The high density, extra soft filling can be added or taken out based on the user’s firmness preference, and the unique makeup of the filling retains fluffiness for better performance and longer use.

Dimensions: 55 x 32 x 8 inches | Material: Velvet | Shape: U-shape

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Best Eco-Friendly: Buffy Cloud Pillow

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Pros

• Made from sustainable materials
• 300 single-ply thread count
• Several size/firmness options

Cons

• Small (will not cover more than one body area at once)

For a pillow you can use for support during pregnancy and beyond, we think you’ll love the Buffy Cloud Pillow. Dr. Basu recommends that expecting parents find a pillow that provides the right support and comfort during sleep, and the Buffy Cloud pillow does just that. Made from BPA-free, eco-friendly materials, this pillow is soft, supportive, and comes in various sizes and firmness levels to help you find your perfect pillow.

Dimensions: 20 x 28 inches (standard) | Material: Tencel lyocell fiber | Shape: Regular standard pillow

Best Compact: Boppy Side Sleeper

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Pros

• Small footprint
• Stretch panel holds pillow in place
• Machine washable

Cons

• Stretch panel needs more stretch

If you’re looking for a pillow that doesn’t take up the entire bed, we think you’ll love the Boppy Side Sleeper. This compact pregnancy pillow measures 13.5 x 23.5 x 7 inches, and is made of a polyester and cotton blend that’s machine washable for easy cleaning.

What we love most about this pillow is a side panel that stretches for ultimate comfort. When stretched and placed between the legs, the panel helps keep the pillow in place as you sleep. Use it for comfortable side sleeping or for support during the fourth trimester.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 23.5 x 7 inches | Material: Polyester and cotton | Shape: Not Listed

Best for Back Pain: Leachco Back ‘N Belly Contoured Body Pillow

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Pros

• Supports back/belly at same time
• Ends can be stacked for double support
• Hourglass inner curve design

Cons

• Costly
• Not machine washable
• Heavy

Similar to the Queen Rose Full Pregnancy Pillow, Leachco makes the Back ‘N Belly Contoured Body Pillow, which provides equal support for the back and tummy at the same time with its hourglass inner curve design, which also helps align hips for better spine positioning.

The user can also easily flip from side to side if they’d like. Or, since the pillow is separated in the middle, both ends can be stacked to create double the support for your head, upper, and lower body. (Stacking the pillow for extra head support can help relieve heartburn, a dreaded pregnancy symptom). This particular pillow is not machine washable, however, and it weighs 7 pounds, making it quite substantial and not easy to move around.

Dimensions: 55 x 33 x 8.5 inches | Material: Polyester and cotton | Shape: U-shape

Best for Tall People: COMFYSURE Full Body Pregnancy Pillow

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Pros

• Designed for tall people
• Lumbar support

Cons

• Bulky

For tall women, finding a pillow that’s long enough for the proper support can be difficult, while shorter pillows don’t necessarily target the right spots for maximum aid. This U-shaped option, the ComfySure Full Body Pregnancy Pillow offers lumbar support, prevents sleep repositioning, and offers belly, arm, and neck support while relieving the pain and discomfort often associated with pregnancy. The extra-long measurements of this full-body pillow mean it’ll even fit on most queen and king-sized beds. This pillow is machine washable for easy cleaning, as well.

Dimensions: Not Listed | Material: Polyester | Shape: U-shape

Best Portable: Leachco Snoogle Mini Compact Side Sleeper

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Pros

• Compact shape
• Conforms to your body shape

Cons

• Can only provide target support to back, legs, or tummy

If a full body pillow isn’t your thing, the Leachco Snoogle Mini Compact Side Sleeper provides targeted support during pregnancy, allowing you to pick between your back, legs, or tummy. This pillow naturally conforms to the shape of your body​ and helps align your hips to ensure neutral joint positioning. The compact shape of this pillow option makes it perfect to bring on travel, as well, although taller people may not find as much support as they’d like. The small shape of this pillow also makes it easy to transition use after your pregnancy to a breastfeeding pillow, as well.

Dimensions: 27.8 x 7 x 21.8 inches | Material: Not Listed | Shape: J-shape

Best for Sciatic Pain: Cushy Form Knee Pillow for Side Sleepers

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Pros

• Great for sciatic nerve pain
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Does not support tummy

If you get sciatic nerve pain when you’re pregnant, you might want to try a knee pillow that can help ease tension. This memory foam option supports your upper knees when you sleep on your side, putting you in the proper position for sleep. Beyond sciatic pain, this may also help relieve knee, ankle, hip, and joint pain.

This popular choice is known for offering relief and staying in place overnight. With some customers saying they got relief after one night of sleep.

Dimensions: 10 x 5.5 x 8 inches | Material: Memory foam | Shape: Wedge

Best Head Pillow: FitPlus Bed Wedge

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Pros

• Cushioned
• Removable cover is machine washable

Cons

• Possible strong smell

For all the excitement and anticipation pregnancy brings, it can also bring on unfortunate side effects including heartburn, indigestion, and back pain. This wedge pillow from FitPlus is designed to help alleviate those symptoms so you can get a good night’s sleep. The foam base is topped with 1.5 inches of memory foam, so it’s supportive yet cushioned and will shape to your head, neck, and shoulders. It measures 24 x 28 x 7.5 inches and comes with a removable cover that’s machine washable.

Customers say it’s a high-quality pillow that works well to alleviate a variety of issues, aches, and pains. Many say it provides them with the best sleep they’ve had in years. Some note there is initially a strong smell to the pillow, but that dissipates after a few days.

Bonus: If you want to go back to your regular pillow once the baby is born, you may want to hand this one over to your partner as it’s designed to prevent snoring, too. It’s also great for reading and watching TV, so you can use it long beyond your pregnancy, one way or another.

Dimensions: 24 x 28 x 7.5 inches | Material: Memory foam and polyurethane foam | Shape: Wedge

Final Verdict

Check out the Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow, if you’re looking for a pillow that supports you from head to toe. The horseshoe-shaped head pillow allows for proper positioning and height, while the extra-long midsection is perfect for total back or tummy support. There’s also the Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge, which helps to reduce swelling in your hands, legs, and feet by relieving back tension. You can also place it under your belly or knees to help you feel more comfortable at night.

How We Selected the Best Pregnancy Pillows

We chose the best pregnancy pillows by researching reviews from customers and competitors, and we studied the features of more than 30 products on the market. We considered price, design, material, ease of cleaning, and size when deciding our picks. We also consulted with JustAnswer physician DJ Basu, MD MPH, for any considerations or product recommendations while reviewing guidance from the American Pregnancy Association on sleeping during pregnancy.²

What to Look for in a Pregnancy Pillow 

Shape

If you’ve already started shopping for a pregnancy pillow, you’ve probably noticed they come in many different shapes and sizes. There are three main shapes you will see when browsing: U-shape, C-shape, and wedge. It’s important to know the difference between these three types of shapes as they each offer different support. 

A U-shape pillow follows the natural shape of a growing baby bump, while also allowing the parent to turn to either side. These types of pillows give you maximum support in all areas, typically covering your entire body. There’s also a C-shape pillow, which looks like the letter “C,” and allows you to reposition easily for wherever you need support the most. Some pregnant people opt for wedges instead of pillows because they’re more compact and target specific areas instead of the entire body. Some are great for bump support while others are perfect for knee or back pain. 

No matter what type of pillow you decide to use, Dr. Basu recommends finding a pillow that’s comfortable and supportive. “The main goal of the pillow should be to provide adequate comfort and support during sleep. Properly designed pillows can prevent sleep apnea, acid reflux, and also can provide support for side sleeping. C-shaped and U-shaped pillows provide total body support, while wedge shaped pillows can be used to provide localized support like back or stomach during side sleeping.”

Type of Material 

You may not think of the material when buying a pregnancy pillow, but it’s definitely a factor to think about. Some materials are more breathable than others, while there’s also many that conform to your body shape. 

“Body pillows with organic cotton lining separating it from inner fills can be ideal for preventing heat and sweat during sleep,” Dr. Basu says. “The fill should retain little heat. The pillow should be easy to wash or dry clean for hygiene purposes. The pillow should be hypoallergenic as well to prevent allergies and nasal congestion during sleep.”

If you tend to get hot during the night, you’ll want to look for a pillow made with cotton as it’s a breathable fabric. Polyester, however, is not breathable, and is best for cold nights or people who stay cold at night in general. Memory foam pillows are soft and shape to your body. While not as breathable as cotton, it’s definitely comfortable to sleep with. 

Size 

Many pregnancy pillows, especially U-shape and C-shape pillows, take up quite a bit of space. For those who sleep alone, this more than likely won’t be a problem. However, if you sleep with a partner, it may be an issue depending on where you both sleep. If you’re tall, a longer pillow may fit your needs better, while a wider pillow will support a back and belly. There are also wedges, which are more compact but still provide you with support. 

Overall, you want a pillow that’s comfortable for your growing bump and body type. “Pillows should also be able to provide good back support and pressure relief—good for pregnant women with chronic back pain issues,” Dr. Basu says.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• How do I sleep with a pregnancy pillow?How you sleep with a pregnancy pillow is really going to depend on where you need support the most and the type of pillow you buy. Once you’ve made a decision on your pillow, you can figure out a good sleeping position from there. For U-shape and C-shape pillows, you can typically put part of the pillow between your legs while resting your belly and arm on another part of the pillow. As for wedges, these are best for one spot, like between the legs, your belly, or even back.
• When should I start using a pregnancy pillow?You will more than likely begin using a pregnancy pillow during your second and third trimester, but you can really start at any time. During your second and third trimester, your baby is growing rapidly, and you may be feeling more aches and pains, so a pregnancy pillow will provide you with support.“Since comfort, support, and good quality sleep are very important during pregnancy, one can start using a specialized pillow right from the beginning of pregnancy,” says Dr. Basu. “Otherwise, it is definitely advisable after 12 weeks of pregnancy, as the uterus gets heavier, to ensure proper side sleeping, back support, and pressure relief.”Your doctor will tell you when you can no longer sleep on your back and when to switch to your side. “Pressure on inferior vena cava can cause decreased blood flow to the brain and dizziness in the mother,” explains Dr. Basu. “There is also [the] risk of stillbirth as well.”Sleeping on your left side is recommended over back sleeping during pregnancy, Dr. Basu suggests. “It is better to sleep on the left side in a curled up position to ensure good blood flow during sleep.This is when it would be best to start using a pregnancy pillow for support so that your body can accustom to the growing changes comfortably at night.”

The Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow is the best pregnancy pillow for back pain because it cradles your entire body. It offers support for the head and neck, shoulders, hips and legs. It actually helps you to sleep more comfortably than any other pillow on the market. The Nestle Cosy Comfort U-Shaped Maternity Pillow is best for back pain, according to a review from Baby Tech. The pillow is designed to help alleviate pressure on your hips, pelvis and lower back, which can be especially painful during the third trimester. The U-shaped design also helps accommodate your growing belly.

Maternity support pillow allows you to create comfortable sleeping positions for any sleeping position, whether side, tummy or back. It’s a great pregnancy body pillow and also helpful after delivery, just like the Boppy Newborn Lounger. Ideal for helping relieve pain and increase blood flow while resting or sleeping! Soft and breathable, no worries of overheating as our maternity pillows are machine washable & dryable.

A pregnancy pillow can help you sleep comfortably while in your third trimester. You may have back pain during late pregnancy, so you will want to make sure you choose the right pillow for your body shape. You deserve a comfortable pregnancy pillow for back pain. Our guides and charts will help you find the best one for your needs.

How Does Pregnancy Pillow Help With Back Pain

Pregnancy pillows are great for easing back pain and reducing pressure on the lower spine. When you sleep with a pregnancy pillow, it provides support between your legs, helping to lift your hips off the bed and make sure that gravity isn’t pulling on them. This type of support helps relieve back pain by reducing the tension in your muscles.

During pregnancy, you will feel a lot of back pain, especially when your baby becomes more active. This can be prevented by using pregnancy pillow that can adjust to your body’s changing shape. The unique curvature of these pillows help support the neck and head so that you can lie on your side in comfort for a full night’s sleep. When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes. Back pain is one of them, and it’s something nearly every mom-to-be experiences at some point in the pregnancy. The right support can help ease your discomfort, so pick up a pregnancy pillow that suits you and your sleeping style.

The pregnancy pillow provides good support for the hips, legs and back. Pregnancy pillows are better than other types of body pillows in terms of pregnancy. Pregnancy pillows are especially recommended because they are designed specifically to fit the shape of your body and provide maximum support for your back and belly. In addition, you will receive the benefits of a good night’s sleep without having to purchase extra pillows or items. Pregnancy pillows help to cushion your growing baby bump and make sleeping more comfortable. Many pregnant women find them especially helpful with lower back pain, which is often aggravated by the added strain of an expanding belly.