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| Body or maternity pillows are specifically designed to help a pregnant woman sleep more comfortably. According to the non-profit American Pregnancy Association, it is best for a pregnant women to sleep on her side to increase the amount of blood and nutrients that reach the placenta. WebMD says having a pillow under the abdomen or between the knees may also help. Maternity pillows come in many shapes: straight, full-length pillows and those shaped like a "c" or a "j." Some are wedge or doughnut-shaped, while others consist of two pillows joined by fabric and Velcro, which can be adjusted so the pillows support the abdomen and back simultaneously. |
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| Typical costs: |
- Smaller-sized pillows, such as the Boppy Pregnancy Wedge cost as little as $15.
- Larger pillows, like the Snoogle and the Snoozer typically cost $40 to $60.
- Hypoallergenic or natural goose-down pillows are more expensive, usually between $60 and $160.
What should be included: |
- Maternity pillows should come with at least one machine-washable pillowcase.
Additional costs: |
- Additional pillowcases will run between $15 and $40, depending on the type of fabric and size of the pillow.
Shopping for a body pillow: |
- The Sleep Foundation offers sleeping tips for pregnant women that may help you determine criteria for choosing a pillow.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. For medical decisions, always consult your physician for the right course for your infant or child. |
Article updated January 2009 |