Growing a baby can be a gruelling business on your body, but having one of the best pregnancy pillows in your arsenal will help alleviate your aches and pains. Tiredness and insomnia are common when you are expecting, but a pregnancy pillow can have you sleeping like a baby.
Whether you're looking for a pregnancy pillow to alleviate back and hip pain, to keep you cool and comfortable in the night, a longer pillow that is better for taller mums, or one to help with those tired night feeds when the baby arrives, we've compiled the very best pregnancy pillows on the market to make the choice as easy as can be. We also spoke to parent sleep expert Heidi Skudder from Positively Parenthood to ensure you are getting the best advice.
Designed to support your bump, hips, legs, neck and back, particularly during the second and third trimesters, they're also known as maternity pillows or body pillows and tend to be much larger than regular pillows.
There are many different types, and some can even be used for a nursing pillow or for tummy time when your baby arrives. They can be made from a range of different materials, are available in various levels of firmness and may have a cover to make cleaning simple and easy - all factors that should be taken into account when deciding on which one to buy.
Finding how to sleep when you're pregnant can often be a case of trial and error. Whether you're struggling with hormones, finding a comfortable position, or being woken in the night by leg cramps or restless legs, utilising one of the best-rated pregnancy pillows will (hopefully) help you rest easier during the night.
The best pregnancy pillows at a glance
Best pregnancy pillow for left-hand side sleeping
Which type of pregnancy pillow should I choose?
It's important that you choose a pregnancy pillow that's right for you. Pillows can come in different shapes and sizes, and while they are all designed to support you and your bump, they have slightly different ways to support you more effectively.
Full-body pregnancy pillow or I-shaped pillow - Usually running the whole length of your body and either straight or slightly curved, full-body pregnancy pillows support your shoulders, hips and knees.
U-shaped pregnancy pillow - A U-shaped pillow surrounds your whole body. This means that both your belly and back are supported. It is usually the largest type that you can get, so it's worth bearing in mind the space you have available before buying.
C-shaped pregnancy pillow - A C-shaped pregnancy pillow offers different levels of support depending on where you place it. They can be used to discourage you from rolling over onto your back and help support your neck and head, and are great for using as a nursing pillow once the baby arrives.
J-shaped pregnancy pillow - J-shaped pillows tend to be longer and provide extra support between your legs, which is perfect for mums who are suffering from pelvic girdle pain.
Wedge pregnancy pillow - This is the smallest option. As the name implies, it can be used to raise different areas of your body to provide comfort. It does not, however, offer support to the body as a whole.
How we tested and chose the best pregnancy pillows
We spoke with 12 mums who have tried and tested products in our Mother & Baby Awards to find out what pregnancy pillows they used and why they loved them so much. We have also included recommendations and reviews from the Mother & Baby team, who have used pregnancy pillows while pregnant and beyond. We've made sure to include a large variety of products, combatting issues such as hip pain, back pain, hot sweats, and more. We have also considered different budgets, space requirements, customer reviews, and brand reputations.
We asked our pool of pregnant mum testers to test each pregnancy pillow for its weight and size, adjustability, breathability, suitability for different body shapes and sizes, support throughout pregnancy, comfort, ease of cleaning, durability, design and value for money.
Find out more about how we test products for Mother&Baby.
The best pregnancy pillows for 2024
Best pregnancy pillow overall
The Kally Body Support Pillow is a highly comfortable and attractive pregnancy pillow designed to enhance sleep quality for expectant mothers. Ergonomically designed by osteopaths, its curved shape snugly fits around the body, supporting the bump and alleviating aches and pains, improving circulation, and preventing acid reflux and indigestion. Our mum tester, Leah, said, "My aches were a lot less, particularly in my arms and legs."
"Taking the pillow to bed each night, it soon became part of my routine to snuggle up to it, wrapping my right leg over and left leg under for that extra bit of comfort. As the pillow is quite long, I also occasionally rested my head on it, which helped keep my neck aligned with the rest of my body." Leah continued.
One of our favourite features is the anti-allergy-treated fibres that help to protect against bacteria and the breathable cotton outer layer, which keeps you perfectly cool - which is great for helping to prevent pregnancy night sweats. You can also easily use this as a breastfeeding pillow once the baby arrives, too. It's on the firmer side, which some reviewers really enjoy, but others may not. It also needs a good shake every now and then to redistribute the filling.
Read our full Kally Body Support Pregnancy Pillow review
Pros
- Made from hypoallergenic, breathable materials
- Soft and comfortable
- Machine-washable
- Available in different colourways
- Firm and supportive
Cons
- Doesn't support the back
- Takes up a large amount of space
Dimensions: | 145 cm x 30 cm x 35 cm |
Outer material: | Cotton, polyester |
Inner material: | Hollowfibre |
Weight: | 1.8 kg |
Care: | Machine-washable cover |
This bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow is one of the more expensive options on our list, but we believe it's worth the extra cash. Designed by health professionals, it is fully adjustable and provides five-point support throughout pregnancy to the most critical areas - the pelvis, lower back, knees, ankles, and abdomen.
Our Features and Reviews editor, Emily, described this pillow as feeling like "you're sleeping on a cloud" as it moulds around the body for support where you need it most, making it easier to relax and get comfortable during pregnancy. She added, "The difference I have noticed since using the bbhugme pillow at night - especially as my pregnancy progresses - has been huge for me. It's so comfortable to snuggle into, and my body feels much less achy when I wake up, thanks to all the support I'm receiving."
We love that it enables sleep and rest from the first trimester. Our favourite features are the removable cover and handy travel-sized bag, but it does take up quite a bit of room in the bed.
Read our full bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow review
Pros
- Adjusts to your shape
- Machine-washable cover
- Supports multiple areas of the body
- Recommended by midwives
- Comes with travel bag
Cons
- Quite large
- The 'pebbles' can be uncomfortable
Dimensions: | 150 cm x 20 cm |
Outer material: | 95% cotton, 5% spandex jersey fabric Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex Class 1 Certified |
Inner material: | Filled with BioFoam, which is CO2-neutral, non-hazardous, hygienic, lightweight and durable |
Weight: | 1.9kg |
Care: | Cover is machine washable at 40 max, do not tumble dry |
Best pregnancy pillow for left-hand side sleeping
The Dreamgenii pregnancy pillow helps you to lie on your left side - one of the best positions for you and your baby, according to the NHS - while supporting your bump, back and knees for full-body support and restful sleep. If you naturally sleep on your back, getting comfortable in this new position can be difficult - we found this pillow helpful. Some reviewers suggested that it can take a bit of time to find the best position for you, so it's worth testing out a few different ways, and it's not as firm as some others on our list.
Our mum tester, Sophie, said, "I don't know how I would have gotten any sleep during my pregnancy without this pillow. My bump was huge and really needed some support, and it was great that I could wrap it between my legs for extra comfort. It's easy to wash the cover, and I used it while Eli was tiny to support him as he laid next to me on the bed during the day, too."
Read our full Dreamgenii Pregnancy Support and Feeding Pillow review
Pros
- Supports your bump, back and legs
- Made from soft cotton
- Machine-washable
- Additional covers available
- Can be used as a feeding pillow
- Doesn't take up as much room as other pillows
Cons
- More suited for early pregnancy
- Not as firm as other options
Dimensions: | 35 cm x 15 cm x 42 cm |
Outer material: | 100 per cent Jersey cotton |
Inner material: | Polyester |
Weight: | 1.21 kg |
Care: | Covers can be machine-washed, pillows cannot |
Best J-shaped pregnancy pillow
This uniquely J-shaped pillow (designed by a team of respected health experts) seamlessly curves around your pregnant figure and growing bump, and thanks to its innovative KneeBlade™ design, it will help you settle into the correct sleeping position.
Taking the pressure off your hips, legs and ankles, the SnüzCurve Pregnancy Support Pillow also supports the upper body, keeps your spine neutral, relieves pressure on the bump and keeps you comfy. We found that this pillow helped relieve pregnancy pains and left us feeling refreshed and well-rested after sleep, although it won't stop you from rolling onto your back if that's your main concern.
Our tester dubbed this pregnancy pillow "a godsend", noting that "within a couple of nights, I noticed my back and knee pains started to disappear. The quality and length of my sleep improved also. It was really easy to unpack and get used to using, too. I have used it every night since I unboxed it and wash the cover every time I wash the bed sheets."
Read our full SnüzCurve Pregnancy Support Pillow review
Pros
- Created with the help of experts
- Unique KneeBlade™ feature
- Machine-washable
- Comes with a travel bag
- Made from soft, breathable fabric
- Doesn't take up as much room as other pillows
Cons
- Doesn't stop you from rolling onto your back
Dimensions: | 135 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm |
Outer material: | Cotton, elastane |
Inner material: | Polystyrene beads, polyurethane foam |
Weight: | 2kg |
Care: | Machine-washable liner |
Best U-shaped pregnancy pillow
If you've recently noticed you're feeling some aches and pains in your back, hips, knees, neck and head in the morning during pregnancy, then this pillow might be just what you're looking for. The Pharmedoc The CeeCee U-shaped pillow offers full body support is gentle on your skin, machine-washable and comfortable to lay on - with the added bonus that it can be used on your bed, sofa or floor. We love the shape of this pillow, as it feels like a huge hug. However, it does take up more than your side of the bed - but hey, you're technically two humans at the moment. If your other half has to be a little squished, then so be it.
Reviewers say this pillow is ultra-comfortable, and having the detachable cover makes keeping it fresh as easy as can be. Some taller mums-to-be did note that it wasn't quite long enough to support them as they'd hoped and that the stuffing may need redistributing every now and then.
Pros
- Full-body support
- Machine-washable cover
- Soft and cosy
- Filling adjusts to your belly or back
- Ideal for c-section recovery
Cons
- Very large in size
- May not be as effective for taller people
Dimensions: | 44.4 cm x 34.8 cm x 19.8 cm |
Outer material: | 100 per cent organic cotton |
Inner material: | 100 per cent recycled polyester |
Weight: | 3.54 kg |
Care: | Machine-washable cover |
Best wedge-shaped pregnancy pillow
The OCCObaby Pregnancy Wedge Pillow is designed to provide relief from third-trimester discomfort by improving circulation and reducing any swelling in the hands, legs, and feet – something many mums suffer with during pregnancy. Its innovative design includes micro-holes in the foam for air ventilation, ensuring a cooling and comfortable nap day and night. With soft memory foam on one side and firm foam on the other, you can customise each sleep to you and how your body is feeling. The pillow can be used to support under the belly, between the knees, or behind the back to alleviate any pressure while you sleep.
The plush Velboa cover adds to the comfort, being both soft and durable, and it is machine washable for easy maintenance. The pillow is portable and comes with a travel bag, making it convenient for use at home, in the car, or at the office. One mum shared that "it helped me feel way more relaxed, supported, and comfortable. It has helped me avoid having such intense lower back pain." Mum testers also loved how cool the pillow kept them, commenting, "It also doesn't get hot or make my belly feel overheated; it breathes well and is very soft. It's good fabric."
Pros
- Versatile and small
- Great for belly, knee and back support
- Portable travel bag included
- Super soft material
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Some reviewers found it too firm
Dimensions: | 33.53 cm x 38.1 cm x 11.43 cm |
Outer material: | Balboa |
Inner material: | Memory foam |
Weight: | 0.2 kg |
Care: | Machine-washable cover |
- Use the OCCObaby pregnancy wedge for belly support during pregnancy to help reduce swelling in your hands, legs, and feet by improving circulation and relieving pressure and stress.
- OCCObaby technology uses micro-holes in the foam layer of the wedge pillow for air ventilation, giving you a cooling, comfortable feel when sleeping or anytime. day and night
- Versatile 2 SIDED Support: soft memory foam on one side and a firm foam on the other for varying levels of support where you need it
- OCCObaby's Pregnancy Wedge Pillows can be used under the belly, between the knees, or behind the back to provide ample support, which can reduce swelling in your hands, legs, and feet (edema)
- OCCObaby Pregnancy Wedge Pillow Cover is super soft, yet still durable and washable. Maternity time is a challenging time for comfort, especially the 3rd trimester. OCCObaby made sure our pregnancy support wedge cover included the softest of fabrics. No detail is too small when it comes to giving you comfy support.
- As a soon-to-be mom, we know you are always on the go. So, we've included a travel bag for your pregnancy wedge pillow! From the Car to the Office Chair and back home to bed, we've got you covered.
If the look and feel are your top priority, DockATot's Cosset body pillow is designed to look good and feel good during pregnancy and beyond. Beautifully created, as with most DockATot products, the Cosset body pillow is also functional and made up using Suprelle Duo Fibres to offer a comfortable and supportive sleep throughout your pregnancy. We love that this isn't your standard pregnancy pillow but rather a gorgeous addition to your bedroom, although the tassels may be annoying when trying to sleep.
Our mum tester liked that "it can just be kept on the bedpost during pregnancy, sitting looking pretty, and I know it will aid lumbar support during night feeds when my baby is here."
Read our full DockATot Cosset body pillow review
Pros
- Comfortable, soft fabric
- Hypoallergenic, anti-bacterial and breathable
- Attractive design
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Tassels get in the way when trying to get comfortable for sleep
Dimensions: | 36 cm x 150 cm |
Outer material: | Cotton |
Inner material: | Suprelle duo fibre filler |
Weight: | 1.67 kg |
Care: | Wash separately in cold water, machine-dry |
Best value pregnancy pillow
If good value is important to you, or you don't want to shell out for something you'll only use for a short period of time, the sleepdove Big U might be the pregnancy pillow for you. A U-shaped pillow, it offers neck and back support for mums-to-be sleeping on their side. It is filled with soft, supportive, luxury, non-allergenic hollow fibres, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience. The pillow comes with a white, removable, zipped cover made of cotton for easy cleaning.
One pregnant mum tester who was struggling with pelvic pain during her pregnancy said, "I had my first good night's sleep since being pregnant" when using this pillow. The pillow can be used both on its front and back, making it easy to turn from left to right in bed, and although the size made it a bit challenging to fit into the cover, mums were overall impressed with this pillow.
Pros
- Filled with hypoallergenic fibres
- Helps neck and back pain
- Machine-washable
- Can also be used upside down if you prefer
Cons
- The cover is difficult to get back on
- Takes up a large amount of space
- Might not be as suitable for taller people
Dimensions: | 64.5 cm x 56.4 cm x 22.9 cm |
Outer material: | Cotton |
Inner material: | Polyester |
Weight: | 2.9 kg |
Care: | Machine-washable cover |
The biggest selling point of the Simba Cooling Pillow is, you guessed it, its cooling properties, designed to keep pregnant people who are trying to sleep in those hot summer months cooler throughout the night, thanks to its Stratos® cool-touch tech. This material keeps the pillow cool to the touch and, due to its breathable nature, quickly wicks away any sweat to keep your skin cool and dry.
Our mum tester loved the cooling feature for stress-free sleep, especially during summer. Some taller reviewers stated that it wasn't quite long enough, and it doesn't provide back support, but it does retain its shape well, unlike other pillows on the market.
Want extra comfort? Don't forget to check out our best cooling pillowcases guide, too.
Read our full Simba Cooling Body Pillow review
Pros
- Remains cool throughout the night
- Good quality fill which maintains its shape
- Made from sustainable, recycled material
- Machine-washable
- Comes with a storage bag
Cons
- No back support
- Cover can be difficult to put back on
- Might not be suitable for taller people
Dimensions: | 120 cm x 35 cm |
Outer material: | 100% cotton with Stratos® cool-touch technology |
Inner material: | 100% certified polyester |
Weight: | Not listed |
Care: | Cover and pillow are machine-washable |
Best V-shaped pregnancy pillow
www.johnlewis.com
If your baby likes to do the Cha Cha at night, try using this John Lewis Specialist Synthetic Carefree Comfort Teflon V-Shaped Support Pillow, which offers support for the belly and back. It's been lovingly made to help promote spine alignment for back and side sleepers, so you won't be kept up tossing and turning from pain in your neck or back. The best thing about it? We love that it comes with a pillowcase that's designed for repelling dirt and stains, which is ideal when the little one arrives as its shape supports sitting positions, cradling their head and neck, with hollowfibre filling that retains its shape.
One mum tester who has suffered from severe lower back and hip issues for three years found remarkable relief with this pillow. "I've had four nights now with this pillow, and it's brilliant; I can get 4-5 hours without waking up in discomfort, and I'm already feeling the general benefit of getting more sleep after just four days." She commented. Some mums did suggest, however, that it can lose its shape over time and that the pillowcase is difficult to put on, but its low price is attractive.
Pros
- Helps keep your spine aligned
- Good support for head, neck and shoulders
- Machine-washable
- Highly effective in repelling dirt and stains
Cons
- Difficult to put the pillowcase on
- Can lose its shape
Dimensions: | 82 cm x 50cm x 32 cm |
Outer material: | Polyester, cotton |
Inner material: | 100% cent polyester |
Weight: | Not listed |
Care: | Machine-washable |
Best pregnancy pillow for nursing and tummy time
This multi-purpose pillow is great for use during pregnancy and with your baby right up until the stroller stage. With adjustable straps to fit your waist, the Clevamama ClevaCushion Nursing Pillow and Baby Nest helps you get comfortable during your pregnancy when you need it most. You can use this while nursing or napping, placing it behind your back in a chair or the sofa.
The Clevafoam has an open cell structure, meaning it's breathable, doesn't retain heat and is surprisingly lightweight, so it is ideal for the warmer months. We found that this was a great investment as it can be used for pregnancy and beyond, although it isn't designed to be used for sleep support during pregnancy.
Read our full ClevaMama ClevaCushion 10 in 1 Nursing Pillow review
Pros
- Hypoallergenic, pH-balanced, and toxin-free
- Soft and comfortable
- Adjustable waist strap for safety
- Retains shape well
- Machine-washable
- Multiple uses
Cons
- Not designed for pregnancy sleep support
Dimensions: | 60 cm x 20 cm x 50 cm |
Outer material: | Polyester |
Inner material: | Foam |
Weight: | 1.4 kg |
Care: | Machine-washable cover |
Choosing the right pregnancy pillow for you:
There are so many options on the market. Try to assess your individual needs when choosing a pregnancy pillow.
Type of pillow: If you are suffering from aches and pains all over, you may want to opt for a U-shaped pillow that offers full support. However, if you are looking to add comfort when you are chilling on the sofa, you could opt for a C-shaped pillow. You may need a V-shaped pillowcase, too, to go with your new pregnancy pillow.
The support: Like regular cushions that you rest your head on, pregnancy pillows come in different support options. Whether you want firm support or something softer to mould to your body, you'll be able to find the right one for you.
The size: It can take up a lot of room, pretty much kicking your other half out of bed. This also means that they can be difficult to store. If this could be a problem for you, consider a more compact pillow.
Price: The larger the pillow, generally the more expensive it will be. Wedges tend to be the cheapest option and the easiest to store. Remember to make a purchase that is suitable for your budget. Multi-use pillows are a fantastic way to save money in the future.
Whether it's multi-functional: Here at Mother & Baby, we love a product that can be used in multiple ways, taking you throughout pregnancy and right through to your baby's arrival. Many pillows are great for this and can be used as a breastfeeding pillow, bottle-feeding, and even tummy time with your tot. This is a great way to get your money's worth.
Material: If you have been suffering from night sweats or hot flushes, you will need to pick a pillow with a breathable material, like cotton.
How easy it is to clean: You'll be using it a lot, so you'll want to ensure you can wash it. Most pillows have removable covers that you can wash, while other pillows can be popped in the washing machine, too. Be sure to check to save yourself from experiencing a smelly pillow!
Do I need a pregnancy pillow?
Sleeping when pregnant is notoriously difficult. Rest is one of the most important things you can do whilst growing your baby. The NHS guidelines state that the safest option is for pregnant women to sleep on their left or right-hand side, as sleeping on their back after 28 weeks of pregnancy can increase the risk of stillbirth.
However, if you're not a side sleeper pre-pregnancy, that may feel unnatural. Paired with all the emotions that come with pregnancy, sleep can suffer. And whilst a pregnancy pillow won't ward off the 3 am thoughts, it is a practical tool that will help you to feel more relaxed and comfortable. You could use a traditional cushion; however, pregnancy pillows have been specifically designed to support you as your body grows.
Heidi Skudder told us, "During pregnancy, you will have more energy and feel better if you sleep well and are well rested. Whilst no one "has to" have a pregnancy pillow, women who do invest in them will often rave about them, even taking them around to different places that they stay at, as well as ending up using them for feeding when baby arrives, too. If you want to prioritise good sleep and comfort during your pregnancy (which you deserve), then they are always a good idea."
Is it ok to sleep without a pregnancy pillow?
You might be tempted to think that a pregnancy pillow is a luxury item that you can go without. However, sleep is an essential part of prenatal care. Global research has shown that lack of sleep can lead to serious complications like longer labour, higher cesarean births and emotional stress.
Heidi notes, "It is recommended to sleep on your side from 28 weeks, and pregnancy pillows can help with these, but you certainly don't need one. If sleep is comfortable and you are happy, then it is not a necessity. However, many women find that it improves their quality of sleep and, therefore, their ability to juggle pregnancy and life itself, and will go on to use them or sell them after pregnancy."
Can I buy a second-hand pregnancy pillow?
Heidi says, "There is nothing wrong with investing in a second-hand pregnancy pillow. Assuming the filling is still doing its job and it has kept its shape, investing in a second-hand pillow is a great way of saving money whilst also making yourself more comfortable."
How to use a pregnancy pillow:
Although many can be used to support your neck like a traditional pillow, they are much larger and longer to help align your whole body. This is to help make it more comfortable for you to sleep with a bump, as most experts agree that once the abdomen starts to expand, it is best to sleep on the left side with your knees bent.
How you use your specific pillow depends on the shape of the pillow you choose. You can refer to our guide on how to use a pregnancy pillow, which outlines each shape and how to use it.
Full-length pregnancy pillows are one of the most popular styles of pillows. You can get comfortable by hugging the pillow, resting your bump against it so that it supports the weight and propping the pillow between your legs.
According to The Sleep Foundation, sleeping on your side with bent knees when pregnant promotes healthy circulation, protecting the liver and increasing blood flow to the heart, fetus, uterus, and kidneys.
When should you start using a pregnancy pillow?
Each woman is different, and you can start using a pregnancy pillow as early as you'd like. As soon as you start to feel your sleep is suffering, though, purchasing one is a good idea. For a lot of women, this happens when their bump begins to grow at around 20 weeks.
Heidi says, "You can use a pregnancy pillow from as early on as you like. Often, in second and third pregnancies, you can feel bigger sooner and therefore need one earlier. Otherwise, there is no set timing, so base this on your comfort levels. As soon as you start to feel different at night when sleeping and need to lay on your side more, this is a good time to invest in a pregnancy pillow."
What position should you sleep with a pregnancy pillow?
When expecting, the safest way to sleep is on your left side. Use the pillow to get as comfortable as possible. If you roll in your sleep, it is a good idea to get a U-shaped pillow which will keep you in the correct position. After your third trimester, going to sleep on your back increases your risk of stillbirth. And whilst we don't want this to become yet another worry, sleeping safely will lower your risk.
About the expert
Heidi Skudder is the founder of Positively Parenthood and one of the UK's leading early-years parent coaches. Having read psychology and started her career as a nanny, Heidi quickly identified the demand for high-quality, experienced-based support for new parents. Leveraging her hands-on experience, Heidi launched a sleep coaching business in 2011, helping new parents create positive sleep habits for their babies. This quickly became a successful consulting service, with parents worldwide turning to Heidi for support with their babies and toddlers.
A journalist since 2015, Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for seven years. Emily writes about everything from the top baby products to pregnancy, fertility and maternal mental health. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.