It’s a well-known fact that getting comfortable in pregnancy isn’t always easy. As your bump grows, so do those little aches and awkward positions. If you’re waking up with hip pain, a sore back, or a belly that feels like it needs its own mattress, a pregnancy pillow might be your new best friend.

These soft, supportive cushions aren’t just for sleep. Used right, they can ease pressure, reduce tossing and turning, and give your body the extra TLC it needs—day or night.

Why Pregnancy Pillows Matter

Your body is going through incredible changes—and that means muscles, joints, and ligaments are working overtime. Pregnancy hormones like relaxin loosen your joints (especially in the hips and pelvis), which is great for birth, but not so great for sleep.

The result? Backache, hip strain, leg cramps, and restless nights.

Pregnancy pillows are designed to:

• Support your belly and back

• Keep hips aligned while side-sleeping

• Relieve pelvic and lower back pressure

• Encourage better posture while lounging, sitting or sleeping

The key is knowing how to position them for maximum comfort—and here at mothercare Malaysia, we’ve got just the guide.

1. The Classic “C” Shape – Full Body Hug

This pillow wraps around you in a soft C-like curve, perfect for supporting the head, bump, back and knees all at once.

How to Use It:

• Rest your head on the top curve

• Hug the front for chest and belly support

• Tuck the lower curve between your knees to keep hips level

• Let the back curve cradle your spine

🌙 Ideal for side sleepers with back or hip pain, or those who flip sides through the night.

2. The “U” Shape – Total Body Alignment

Need support on both sides? The U-shaped pillow has your back (literally) and your belly covered.

How to Use It:

• Lay inside the U like a cosy nest

• One arm of the pillow supports your back

• The other cushions your bump and knees

• No need to turn the pillow if you roll—just roll to the other side

🤍 Perfect for mums in the third trimester, or anyone who feels like their body needs full surround support.

3. Wedge Pillow – Small but Mighty

This compact option is perfect if you’re short on space or want targeted support, especially under the bump or behind your back.

How to Use It:

• Slide it under your bump while side sleeping to relieve downward pull

• Tuck behind your back to prevent rolling onto your back

• Use under hips for slight elevation while reclining

🎯 Great for early pregnancy, travel, or minimalist mums-to-be.

4. Pillows Between the Knees – Hip Hero

Even if you don’t have a pregnancy pillow yet, a regular pillow between your knees can work wonders for hip pain.

Why It Helps:

• Keeps your top leg from pulling down

• Aligns your spine and hips

• Reduces pressure on the lower back

🛏️ Use a slim pillow, pregnancy wedge, or the lower end of a C- or U-shaped pillow.

5. Belly + Back Combo – The Sandwich Position

Sometimes, it’s not just one side that needs support—it’s both. If you’re waking up sore or restless, try this technique using two pillows or a C/U shape.

How to Use It:

• Lie on your side

• Tuck one part of the pillow under your belly

• Let the other curve around your back

• Add a small pillow between your knees for good measure

🧡 Think of it as a snug support system—a gentle “hug” that keeps everything in place.

6. Sitting Support – For Lounging or Feeding

Pregnancy pillows aren’t just for bedtime. They’re brilliant for supporting your back and hips while sitting up, whether you’re binge-watching, working from the sofa, or feeding baby later on.

How to Use It:

• Wrap a C-shape pillow around your back in a chair

• Sit with a wedge behind your lower back for lumbar support

• Use the long side of a U-shape pillow as a cushioned seat armrest

• Also great for postpartum comfort when everything still feels a bit tender.

🌠 From naps to night feeds, these cushions aren’t just a pregnancy essential—they’re a lifelong comfort investment.

7. Sleep Propped Up – For Reflux or Shortness of Breath

As your bump grows, lying flat can make breathing harder or worsen heartburn. Elevating your upper body just a little can ease both.

How to Use It:

• Use the back side of a U-shape to prop yourself up

• Combine a wedge under your upper back with pillows behind

• Add an extra pillow behind knees to prevent sliding

🔥 This angled position can also help with snoring or congestion if you’re stuffy.

Pregnancy Pillow Tips & Tricks

A few extra pointers to get the most out of your pillow:

• Wash the Cover Regularly: You’ll likely sleep with it every night, and spills happen!

• Take It When You Travel: Hotel beds can be tricky, but your pillow brings comfort wherever you go.

• Repurpose It Postpartum: Use it for feeding support, tummy time, or just cuddling with your baby.

When Should You Start Using One?

There’s no “right” week to start. Many mums begin using pregnancy pillows in the second trimester when their bump starts to grow, but others find comfort in the first trimester if they’re experiencing back pain or fatigue early on.

🎈 Pro tip: The earlier you start using a pillow for support, the better your posture and alignment will be later.

You Deserve Better Sleep, Mama

Whether you’re 8 weeks in or 8 months along, a pregnancy pillow can help you rest easier—and when you sleep better, everything else feels a little more manageable. It’s one small switch that can make a big difference in how you move, rest, and feel.

💬 Still not sure which shape suits you best? Come visit us! Use our store finder here to see which one of our locations is closest to you.

Need a Pillow That Does It All?

Visit mothercare Malaysia online or in-store for:

• A curated selection of pregnancy pillows

• Expert advice from nursery advisors

• Essentials for every stage of your parenting journey

We’re here to help lighten the load, so you can focus on what matters most.