Pregnancy pillows are often debatable: whether we should buy them or not, whether they are worth that much money, what we will do with these pillows after pregnancy, will pregnancy pillows really help us, and lastly if we buy them, which ones should we purchase? Yes, one should buy pregnancy pillows because they improve your resting hours and sleep during pregnancy and provide comfort. After pregnancy, these pillows are helpful as you breastfeed your little one. To answer the last part, which ones should any would-be mother buy? It depends on the personal preference and comfort that one seeks. In this guest post, we will explore two types of pregnancy pillows in Australia: Body and boppy.
Body Pillow Vs. Boppy Pillow
- Body pillows in Australia aretypically lengthy and rectangular to fit the whole body, usually ranging from 48 to 54 inches. Body pillows can be straight or flexible, allowing users to bend and shape them to their preferred sleeping or resting positions. The length of a body pillow makes it ideal for providing comprehensive support to the entire body. The pillow can be hugged, placed between the legs, or used to support the back. Body pillows are often recommended for side sleepers as they help maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on the lower back.
- Boppy pillows in Australia are familiar shapes seen as crescent or C-shape pillows. This design allows the pillow to wrap around the user’s waist. Boppy pillows have an opening in the center, creating a gap where the user can position the pillow around their waist while sitting. They are relatively compact compared to body pillows, making them easy to carry and move around. The primary use of a Boppy pillow is to provide support during breastfeeding. The mother places the pillow around her waist, creating a stable and comfortable platform for holding the baby while nursing. Unlike body pillows that provide full-body support, Boppy pillows offer more localized support around the waist and can be repurposed for various activities involving the baby.
So, what makes a body pillow a perfect companion during pregnancy?
Pregnancy brings about various physical changes and challenges for women, and a body pillow can be a valuable companion during this transformative time. Here are several reasons why pregnant women often find body pillows beneficial:
Improved Sleep Quality:
Finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes increasingly challenging as pregnancy progresses. Body pillows are designed to cradle the entire body, supporting the head, neck, shoulders, back, and knees. This comprehensive support enhances sleep quality by reducing discomfort and allowing pregnant women to find a position that works for them. Also, pregnant women experience difficulties staying in one position while sleeping, leading to frequent waking throughout the night. A body pillow can act as a barrier, preventing unintended movements and helping women maintain a comfortable sleep posture for extended periods.
Support for the Growing Belly:
As the pregnancy progresses, the belly expands to accommodate the growing baby. It places additional strain on the lower back, hips, and pelvis. A body pillow provides crucial support by aligning the spine and helping distribute the weight more evenly, reducing pressure on these areas.
Alleviation of Back Pain:
Back pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, primarily due to the increased curvature of the spine and the strain on the lower back muscles.
Reduced Swelling and Edema:
Swelling, especially in the legs and feet, is joint during pregnancy due to increased fluid retention. Elevating the legs with the help of a body pillow can promote better circulation, reducing swelling and Edema.
Preparation for Labor and Nursing:
Using a body pillow during pregnancy can also serve as preparation for postpartum life. Many women continue to use body pillows after giving birth, providing support during breastfeeding or simply offering comfort during recovery.
Why do some choose boppy pillows during pregnancy?
A Boppy pillow can be a valuable and versatile accessory for pregnant women, offering specific benefits that cater to the unique challenges and needs during this stage. Here are several reasons why a pregnant woman might find a Boppy pillow beneficial:
Convenience and Portability:
Boppy pillows are compact and easy to carry, making them convenient for travel or use in different house rooms. This portability ensures that pregnant women can have comfortable support wherever they go.
Posture Support:
Maintaining good posture becomes essential during pregnancy to minimize strain on the spine and other areas. A Boppy pillow can support the lower back, promoting proper alignment and reducing the risk of discomfort associated with poor posture.
Breastfeeding Support:
Originally designed as a nursing pillow, a Boppy pillow provides excellent support during breastfeeding. The C-shaped design wraps around the mother’s waist, creating a comfortable and ergonomic position for holding the baby while breastfeeding. This support is precious as it helps prevent strain on the back, neck, and arms.
Tummy Time for Baby:
Beyond pregnancy, a Boppy pillow can be repurposed for baby care. During tummy time exercises, the pillow provides a supportive and comfortable surface for the baby to engage with their environment. This versatility makes the Boppy pillow a practical investment that remains valid after pregnancy.
Final Thought –
Whether to choose a body pillow or a boppy pillow during pregnancy is an unending debate. It is dependent on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. A body pillow in Australia may be the ideal choice if you’re looking for comprehensive support for various sleeping positions or pregnancy. On the other hand, if you’re a parent seeking a versatile pillow for nursing, playtime, and lounging, a Boppy Pillow Australia could be the perfect fit. When deciding, consider your body size, sleeping positions, specific pain points, and budget. Both body pillows and Boppy pillows have their unique advantages, and selecting the right one will contribute to a more comfortable and restful sleep or support experience. Whether you choose the extended support of a body pillow or the multi-functional design of a Boppy pillow, investing in the right pillow enhances your overall well-being and quality of life.
