Do Doctors Recommend Pregnancy Pillows?

As your body transforms during pregnancy, finding a comfortable sleep position can feel nearly impossible. When it comes to finding solutions for this discomfort, pregnancy pillows are often recommended.

But do doctors really support the use of these pillows, or are they just another trendy product? In my years as a neonatal nurse, I’ve had numerous conversations with doctors and new mothers about this very topic, and I’ve seen how pregnancy pillows can be a game-changer. Let’s take a closer look at what the medical community has to say.

Yes, doctors often recommend pregnancy pillows because they help support a growing belly, alleviate back and hip pain, and promote proper sleep positioning. They aren’t just a luxury—they can genuinely improve your sleep quality and comfort as your pregnancy progresses.

Do Doctors Really Recommend Pregnancy Pillows?

Calm pregnant woman lying on the bed with a pregnancy pillow while reading

The short answer is yes! Most obstetricians and midwives I’ve worked with frequently recommend pregnancy pillows to their patients, especially as they enter the second and third trimesters.

Why? Because the body goes through some major changes, and getting quality sleep can become quite the challenge. Doctors suggest pregnancy pillows to help mums find a comfortable sleeping position that supports their body as it changes.

By the time you hit the later stages of pregnancy, sleep can feel like an Olympic sport—getting comfortable is tough, and once you find that sweet spot, you may need to move again. That’s where a well-designed pregnancy pillow, like our Butterfly Maternity Pillow®, can help.

It’s not just about cushioning; it’s about giving your body the support it needs to keep you and your baby comfortable.

Why Do Doctors Recommend Pregnancy Pillows? 

Doctors recommend pregnancy pillows for several reasons, primarily for their ability to provide support and promote healthy sleep positions. Here are the main reasons:

Promote Proper Sleep Positioning 

Doctors often recommend side-sleeping during pregnancy, especially on your left side. This position improves blood flow to the placenta and kidneys, which helps both you and your baby. A pregnancy pillow helps keep you on your side and reduces the urge to roll onto your back, which can put pressure on your spine and major blood vessels.

Alleviate Pressure on the Hips and Back

As your belly grows, the added weight can cause strain on your back, hips, and even your knees. Many doctors suggest using a pregnancy pillow to relieve pressure on these areas, making sleep more comfortable.

The Butterfly Maternity Pillow®, for instance, is designed to provide targeted support where you need it most—your belly, back, and hips.

Relieve Sciatica and Other Pregnancy Discomforts

For women experiencing sciatica or nerve pain, pregnancy pillows can be game-changers. Doctors often recommend them to reduce pressure on the lower back and pelvic area, providing much-needed relief during the night.

A well-positioned pillow can help elevate certain areas and ease the discomfort caused by sciatica, heartburn, and even restless leg syndrome.

Is There Scientific Evidence Behind Pregnancy Pillows?

Pregnancy bump nestled between pregnancy pillow for comfortable sleep

There is a solid foundation of scientific research that supports the use of pregnancy pillows for comfort and improved sleep during pregnancy. Studies have shown that supportive pillows can help maintain proper spinal alignment, reduce pain, and improve overall sleep quality in pregnant women.

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all prescription for pregnancy pillows, they are recommended by many healthcare professionals based on individual needs. 

Are Pregnancy Pillows Just a Trend or a Necessity?

Pregnancy pillows aren’t just a trendy product—they’ve been around for quite a while. While some women may find they don’t absolutely need one, many others find these pillows essential for a good night’s sleep, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

Doctors don’t necessarily consider them a “medical necessity,” but they often recommend them as a helpful tool for better sleep and pain relief.

Some of the most common feedback I hear from new mums is how much of a difference a pregnancy pillow made in their daily comfort. They might not be a must-have for everyone, but if you’re struggling with hip pain or back pain, a pregnancy pillow could be just what you need to feel more comfortable at night.

What Features Do Doctors Recommend Looking for in a Pregnancy Pillow?

When doctors recommend pregnancy pillows, they often suggest looking for the following features:

Supportive Design

A good pregnancy pillow should support your belly, back, and hips without sinking too much. The Butterfly Maternity Pillow® offers this kind of support by propping you up in all the right places, helping you stay aligned and reducing pressure points.

Firmness

Doctors recommend a pillow that is medium-firm—not too soft, but also not overly hard. This level of firmness helps keep your spine aligned while still providing comfort.

Hypoallergenic Materials

During pregnancy, sensitivities can increase, so it’s important to choose a pregnancy pillow made from hypoallergenic and breathable materials to avoid irritation. Look for pillows like ours, which are made from safe, sustainable materials.

Shop our Butterfly Maternity Pillow® here.

Are There Any Risks or Downsides to Using a Pregnancy Pillow?

Pregnancy pillows are generally safe to use, and most doctors see no risk in recommending them. The biggest downside may be personal preference—some women find larger pillows cumbersome, while others feel overheated if the pillow is too bulky. However, choosing the right size and material can mitigate these issues.

When Should You Start Using a Pregnancy Pillow? 

Happy pregnant smiling and hugging her pregnancy pillow

Doctors typically recommend using a pregnancy pillow as soon as you start feeling discomfort while sleeping, usually around the second trimester when your belly starts to grow significantly. However, some women find them helpful as early as the first trimester, especially if they experience early pregnancy back pain.

FAQs

Can a Pregnancy Pillow Help with Insomnia During Pregnancy?

Yes, pregnancy pillows can improve sleep comfort and alignment, reducing waking up due to discomfort.

Is It Safe to Use a Pregnancy Pillow Throughout Pregnancy?

Yes, pregnancy pillows can be used from the first trimester through postpartum for support and comfort. 

What Type of Pregnancy Pillow Do Doctors Recommend Most?

Many doctors recommend wedge-shaped pillows for optimal support, but it may depend on your individual needs.

Can Pregnancy Pillows Help with Heartburn?

Yes, elevating your upper body with a pregnancy pillow can reduce acid reflux and heartburn during sleep.

Do Pregnancy Pillows Provide Support for Postpartum Recovery?

Yes, many women continue using pregnancy pillows postpartum for extra support while nursing or recovering from delivery.

Closing Thoughts

Pink Butterfly Maternity Pillow® perched on top of a white chair

When it comes to pregnancy pillows, doctors do recommend them for many women to improve sleep quality, alleviate discomfort, and promote healthy sleep positioning. While they may not be a strict necessity, they can make a significant difference in your comfort as your pregnancy progresses.

If you’re considering one, why not check out our Butterfly Maternity Pillow®? Whether you’re in the early stages or approaching your third trimester, a pregnancy pillow can be a valuable addition to your bedtime routine.

*The shape of the Butterfly Maternity Pillow® is a registered trade mark of Weekly Sales Pty Ltd

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