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The 11 Best Pregnancy Pillows, Tested by Pregnant Moms

Looking for a maternity pillow to ease discomfort? Our product testers tried pregnancy pillows in every shape and size to bring you the best on the market.
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profile picture of Lynsey Eidell
By Lynsey Eidell, Contributing Writer
Updated July 30, 2024
pregnant woman using pregnancy pillow on bed at home
Image: Kristen Curette & Daemaine Hines | Stocksy United
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In a nutshell:
Based on feedback from our team of independent product testers, a survey of over 300 members of The Bump community and advice from three ob-gyns, we recommend the Momcozy U-Shaped Cooling Fabric Pregnancy Pillow as overall best pregnancy pillow. The pillow stood out due to its superior comfort and support, reasonable price and positive impact on sleep.

Does this sound like a familiar scene? You’re exhausted and can’t wait to crawl into bed, but when you do, your ever-growing bump is right there, like a barrier between you and a good night’s sleep. While you might have dismissed a pregnancy pillow as an unnecessary purchase (after all, you have plenty of pillows already!), a great maternity pillow is actually engineered to ease the discomfort of pregnancy and cradle you off to dreamland. “It’s recommended that pregnant people sleep on their sides (left side is optimal). But it can be very hard to do this!” explains Sara Twogood, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn in Los Angeles and co-founder of Female Health Education. “The pregnancy pillow helps support different parts of the body to make sleep more comfortable.” Most styles support your belly, of course, but others target hip or back pain, because let’s face it: Carrying a baby for nine+ months takes a toll on more than just your midsection.

After experiencing three pregnancies myself—including two back-to-back—I learned how essential a quality pregnancy pillow is to a good night’s sleep. But how can you find the right one for you? Keep reading for a list of the best pregnancy pillows on the market right now, including this year’s Best of The Bump winners, as well as an expert-backed guide to the various types of pregnancy pillows and how to use them.

How We Tested and Chose the Pregnancy Pillows

Image: Emily L., Juanita M., Kateyln C.

The Bump editors conducted extensive research to identify 20 leading pregnancy pillows on the market. From there:

  • We enlisted the help of 18 independent product testers who were expecting. We carefully matched products with parents-to-be who were struggling with their sleep, experiencing back or hip pain and slept in a range of different positions. To test the pillows, these pregnant parents cuddled up with them, slept with them, washed them and found a place to store them. Then, they reviewed each based on product quality, effectiveness, supportiveness, ease of use, ease of cleaning and value.
  • We surveyed over 300 expectant mothers in The Bump community for additional insight on the pros and cons of specific maternity pillows.
  • We interviewed three ob-gyns to understand essential features to keep in mind as you shop for and use your pregnancy pillow.
  • We followed safe sleep guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
  • Because no two pregnancies are the same, we scoured forums and message boards and read user reviews to find out how these pillows performed for expectant moms across the country.

Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.

The Best Pregnancy Pillows to Shop

Overall best pregnancy pillow

ON SALE 15% OFF
Momcozy Huggable U-Shaped Maternity Body Pillow
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
List: $64.99 SAVE $9.75 (15%)
Amazon|55.24
Momcozy|$64.99
What We Love
  • Improves all-night comfort and sleep, moms say
  • Contoured memory foam for support
  • Soft cover fabric
Things To Consider
  • Takes up a lot of space

The Momcozy Huggable earned top scores across all categories—from support to effectiveness to overall quality—making it our overall Best of The Bump winner for the second year in a row. (See all of this year’s Best of The Bump winners.) This full-body, U-shaped pregnancy pillow keeps mamas-to-be supported from all angles, thanks to its high-tension memory foam filling designed not to sag or lose its shape. “I liked that it is thicker than other pillows I have used. The quality of the filling feels like it will last a long time,” our pregnant product tester Emily remarked. The U-shape, though large, is designed to support your growing belly, aching back, sore hips and legs, and Emily found the pillow provided superior comfort for her full body. “I love that it easily wraps around so it helps my back, knees and stomach,” she shared. Finding this pregnancy pillow so supportive, she gave it 10 out of 10 in the category, adding, “My lower back pain is much better!“

Image: Emily

But perhaps the best thing about the Momcozy maternity pillow is that people (including Emily) enjoy better quality sleep when using it. (And what mother-to-be doesn’t need more rest?) The balance of comfort and support, the soft fabric and the high-quality memory foam all work together to improve blood circulation and relieve body discomfort—resulting in a deep, restorative slumber, no matter what position you sleep in. “It improved my sleep a lot,” Emily shared. “I really liked that it has the piece to go along my back,” Emily told us, citing how it helped ease most of her aches while sleeping. “It helps me take the weight of my stomach off and relax.”

While supportive, the Momcozy pillow is also flexible enough to be used to help you find a comfortable position while lounging, sitting upright or nursing after baby comes, as our survey respondent Charlotte* found. “It's incredibly comfortable and pliable; I can put it in several different positions,” she commented. It’s no wonder 11 percent of the women we surveyed opted for this brand!

Dimensions: 57" (L) x 27.6" (W) x 9” (H) | Fabric: Polyester/nylon | Fill: Memory foam | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“I even bought one to give to a pregnant friend already because I love mine that much! It makes it so much easier to sleep and I haven’t been waking up in the middle of the night anymore to toss and turn.”

Our community says:

It helped me transition to side sleeping in my second trimester. It's super bulky but I've traveled with it because I just can't sleep without it! – Charlotte*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Soft, definitely helps me sleep and prevents me from rolling over. – Brianna*, expectant mom

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for belly support

Leachco Back N Belly Chic Supreme Contoured Pillow
Image: Wayfair
What We Love
  • Ultra-supportive for growing bellies
  • No need to reposition throughout the night
  • 300-thread-count cotton cover
Things To Consider
  • Takes up a lot of space
  • High price point

Belly support is essential for comfort during your pregnancy, and the Leachco Back ‘N Belly pillow provides it in spades. The U-shaped pregnancy pillow features inner contours designed to hug your natural curves, with a supportive wedge for your neck, shoulders and baby bump. Plus, since it surrounds you, there’s no need to readjust as you toss and turn throughout the night. In fact, our pregnant product tester Elizabeth rated this pick a 10 out of 10 for its levels of support and effectiveness—particularly on her growing belly. “I love how much support it gives my belly,” she raved. “I feel instant relief when using the pillow.”

Image: Elizabeth

Not only does this pregnancy pillow provide top-notch belly support, but it’s also full, fluffy and super comfortable (“I even tried to use it on my couch because of how much I love the material,” Elizabeth raved). It does take up a good amount of space in bed, so your partner may have to scooch over a bit—but worth it for a good night’s sleep, right? Like many of the best pregnancy pillows, this option has a removable cover that’s machine-washable, and when put to the test, there was zero shrinkage or fading. All of that’s to say, we’re not at all surprised the brand was favored by 10 percent of the pregnant women we surveyed!

This is one of the more expensive pregnancy pillows on our list—but if you have the budget, Elizabeth says it’s worth the splurge: “All I can say is, you’re getting what you pay for.” Thanks to the belly support provided by this pillow, she was able to fall asleep more quickly and slept better at night—and that’s exactly what you want in a good maternity pillow.

Dimensions: 55" (L) x 33" (W) x 8.5" (H) | Fabric: Sateen cotton | Fill: Polyester | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“I would 100 percent recommend this pregnancy pillow. The pillow overall has changed my sleeping, and helped so much with relieving pain. I wish I had this during my first pregnancy!”

Our community says:

I can position it any way I like so I can get some rest. – Araceli, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for back pain

babybub Bub's Maternity Pillow
Image: babybub
Buying Options
Babybub|$49.99
What We Love
  • Provides targeted back and hip support
  • Comes with an extra pillow for between your legs
  • Doesn’t take up a lot of space
  • The microfiber fill has a cooling effect
Things To Consider
  • The additional pillow is on the smaller side

Back pain is a common woe in pregnancy, particularly when you’re trying to sleep—in fact, up to 50 percent of women experience it at some point during their pregnancy. That’s where the babybub Bub’s Maternity Pillow, our Best of The Bump winner for best pregnancy pillow for back pain, comes in: Its wedged, winged design supports both your growing belly and aching back, alleviating any discomfort and providing you with a more restful sleep. For our product tester Calihan, who suffered from back pain during her pregnancy, this pillow was a godsend. “This pregnancy pillow provided great support for my hips and back,” she said, adding that it “helped to ease any lower back pain I was having while sleeping.”

Not only does the babybub pillow help soothe sore backs, it also helps keep mamas in the optimal sleeping position. This pregnancy pillow is specifically designed to position women on their left sides, which is widely considered the safest sleep position during pregnancy since it optimizes blood flow to the uterus. The pillow is also adjustable (which is ideal for growing bumps) and compact—Calihan claimed it could even fit in a tote bag for travel, adding “I appreciate how little room it takes up on my bed.”

Image: Calihan

But just because the Bub’s Maternity Pillow is small in size doesn’t mean it’s lacking in support, firmness or quality. Its high-quality polyester blend fill doesn’t clump or lose its shape. “The pillow feels very sturdy and I expect it to wear well over time, even with use every night during my pregnancy,” Calihan raved. Whether you’re suffering from back pain, seeking a pregnancy pillow that won’t overtake your bed or looking for an option to stand the test of time, Bub's Maternity Pillow fits the bill.

Dimensions: 15.7" (L) x 13.2" (W) x 2.7" (H) | Fabric: Bamboo/polyester blend | Fill: Polyester and microfiber balls | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“I would absolutely recommend it to others looking for a sleek, supportive and non-bulky pillow for their growing bump. The compact size and amount of hip and back support provided by this pillow are essential for comfortable pregnancy sleep.”

Our community says:

Easy to use, helps me stay side lying and helps with back pain; no real complaints. – Sabrina, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

I really like that it doesn't take up a ton of room in my bed so I can still cuddle with my husband and pets. It took me a few nights to figure out how it would work best for me, but now that I have I'm excited to have it for the rest of my pregnancy. – Anna*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for hip pain

ON SALE 30% OFF
bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
List: $209.00 SAVE $62.70 (30%)
Amazon|146.30
What We Love
  • Microbead fill relieves pressure points
  • Firmness is adjustable
  • Customizable shape
  • Fabric cover is OEKO-TEX certified
Things To Consider
  • Fabric fasteners can cause some discomfort
  • Removing and replacing the cover can be difficult
  • Pricey

Hip pain during pregnancy can range from the uncomfortable to the severe—which is what our product tester Bailey, who had symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), experienced. But the bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow helped to ease her pelvic discomfort while sleeping, thanks to its pressure-relieving microbead fill and five-point body support. “This pillow has helped tremendously with my SPD pain,” she revealed. “My hips feel so much better with the support of this pillow.”

The bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow also helps target any other areas where you might be experiencing discomfort, from your back and belly to your knees and ankles. The pillow features adjustable firmness, allowing you to create the level of support that’s perfect for you and your changing body—a feature that “has proven to be very beneficial,” Bailey said. You can also customize the shape of this pregnancy pillow, molding it into a C, U, L or I shape for maximum comfort. “The pillow feels like something I've never felt before,” Bailey claimed. “It's so soft and comfortable.”

The bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow isn’t just beloved by our product tester—it was also a favorite of new mama Sofia Richie Grainge, who called it her “new best friend” and the “third person” in her marriage. (She loved it so much, she bought a second one for her husband!) And with its ability to alleviate aches and pains, can you really blame her?

Dimensions: 57" (L) x 7.5" (H) | Fabric: 95% cotton/5% spandex jersey | Fill: Silicone pebbles | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable, hang to dry

Our product tester says:
“I will be recommending this pillow to all of my friends and family members moving forward, if not purchasing this for them during pregnancy. I cannot wait for my postpartum journey to start so I can use it in other ways like back support while sitting and breastfeeding/pumping!”

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for natural stomach sleepers

What We Love
  • Helps keep side-sleeping position for stomach sleepers
  • Comes in five high-quality fabric options
  • Guide details multiple positions and uses
Things To Consider
  • Not as supportive for back pain

Side-sleeping is widely recognized as the best pregnancy sleep position—which can be a struggle for those who are natural stomach sleepers, like our product tester Katelyn. Enter the Leachco Snoogle Pregnancy Pillow, which helps keep stomach sleepers in a safe side-sleeping position thanks to its C-shaped design. For Katelyn, this was a game-changer: “My main sleep issue is balancing on my side, and this pillow alleviated that problem,” she reported.

Image: Katelyn

Designed by a mother and registered nurse, the Leachco Snoogle comes with a guide that details six different configurations and how they help, based on what your comfort needs are. And, according to Katelyn, “the pillow was easy to manipulate,” making it simple to find your perfect position. Unsurprisingly, she gave the Snoogle a 10 out of 10 score for ease of use!

Another favorite feature of the Leachco Snoogle is its removable outer cover that comes in five different fabric options (300-thread-count cotton, organic cotton, plush polyester, cotton jersey or a polyester-cotton blend), providing something for everyone’s style. But whichever fabric you choose, expect top quality (rated 10 out of 10 by Katelyn) that won’t shrink or fade with washing. “The pillow feels good to the touch,” she gushed. To summarize? This is a pregnancy pillow that’s not only great for stomach sleepers, but for any pregnant woman looking for a more restful slumber.

Dimensions: 58.8" (L) x 25.5" (W) x 7.8" (H) | Fabric (outer cover): Choice of cotton, polyester or cotton/polyester | Fabric (inner liner): 65% polyester/35% cotton | Fill: Polyester fiber | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable; spot clean and fluff pillow

Our product tester says:
“I noticed a significant difference in my ability to balance while side sleeping, which can be difficult as your belly grows during pregnancy.”

Our community says:

I love everything about this pregnancy pillow! – Bella*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for natural back sleepers

Boppy Full Body Side Sleeper Pillow
Image: Target
What We Love
  • Side-sleep positioning with back and belly support
  • Offers four different sleeping positions
  • Entirely machine-washable
Things To Consider
  • Have to readjust to when moving from side to side

Back sleeping is not recommended in your second or third trimesters, due to the weight of your uterus pressing on key blood vessels. According to ACOG, “lying on your back may compress a major blood vessel that takes blood to your uterus, making you feel dizzy and possibly reducing blood flow to your fetus.” One effective way to stay on your side as you sleep is a full-body pillow, ACOG suggests—and our Best of The Bump winner for best pregnancy pillow for natural back sleepers is the Boppy Full Body Side Sleeper Pillow.

Our product tester Ivy praised this pregnancy pillow—which features a full-body pillow connected to a smaller side pillow—for its ability to keep her comfortably on her side throughout the night. “I tend to roll over onto my back while sleeping without a pregnancy pillow, which isn't good for me or the baby. This kept me comfortable and locked into a position,” she said. “Overall, [it] adds a lot of comfort to sleeping, which can be hard to come by in your third trimester especially!”

Image: Ivy

Ivy also loved this pregnancy pillow’s quality, rating it a 10 out of 10 and calling out its soft fabric, its comfortable plush filling and how easy it was to clean. Many maternity pillows have an insert that needs to be spot-cleaned by hand, but the Boppy’s cover and pillow inserts are both machine-washable—and retain their shape and softness after cleaning. (It “washed beautifully,” according to Ivy.) Whether you’re a back sleeper or not, this pregnancy pillow is one to love.

Dimensions: 54" (L) x 30" (W) x 7" (H) | Fabric (body pillow cover): Rayon | Fabric (small pillow cover): 95% cotton/5% spandex | Fill: Polyester fiber | Cleaning: Machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“It’s very effective at keeping me on my side.”

Our community says:

I like how it takes up less space than other pregnancy pillows. – Elle*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for sweaty sleepers

Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Body Pillow
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Microbead filling has a cooling effect
  • Can be bent into several configurations
  • Lightweight
Things To Consider
  • Filling can lose its density over time

Hot flashes and night sweats are both common during pregnancy, but the folks at Frida are here to save the day. Frida’s products have helped address multiple voids in the worlds of pregnancy and postpartum care, and their Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Body Pillow is no exception: This Best of The Bump winner features a microbead filling that allows heat to pass through and creates a cooling effect—which means no more overheating while sleeping. “Unlike other pillows [I’ve used], the breathable material helped me with any heat issues I experienced,” our product tester RaLicia noted, while giving the pillow a 10 out of 10 score for effectiveness.

Image: RaLicia

The cooling effect isn’t the only way this pregnancy pillow helps keep mamas more comfortable. It also features a twistable design that makes four different shapes (I, C, L or U), allowing you to find the support you need for maximum comfort. RaLicia was impressed by this adaptability, rating the Frida Mom pillow 10 out of 10 for ease of use and reporting that it was “very easy to use [in] whichever position you’re lying in.” She’s not alone in being a Frida fan, either: seven percent of women we surveyed purchased pregnancy pillows from Frida, a company that proves time and time again that they know what moms need.

Dimensions: 54” (L) x 9” (W) x 9” (H) | Fabric: 46% Nylon/46% Polyester/7% Spandex blend | Fill: Microbead | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“I would recommend this product to any expectant mom or postpartum mom for better quality of sleep.”

Our community says:

Love that it’s cool material. – Diana*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

It's easy to turn over in bed with it. – Adalyn*, expectant mom of two and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for versatility

ON SALE 20% OFF
Coop Original Maternity Adjustable Pillow
Image: Coop
Buying Options
List: $99.00 SAVE $19.80 (20%)
Amazon|79.20
Coop|$99Target|$99
What We Love
  • Can be molded into any position
  • Flexible but supportive fill
  • GREENGUARD Gold- and CertiPUR-US-certified
Things To Consider
  • Takes up a lot of space
  • The cover can be difficult to remove

The Coop Original Maternity Pillow is a whopping five feet long, but its flexible shape allows you to bend and mold it to wherever you might need some extra cushioning or support—which is why its our Best of The Bump pick for best pregnancy pillow for versatility. It can be twisted and turned into a J, U, or I shape, allowing you to find a comfortable position no matter what point you’re at in your pregnancy (or where your latest aches and pains are). But however you’re using the Coop maternity pillow, you’re guaranteed supreme comfort, thanks to its ability to properly align and support your head and shoulders, belly, knees, hips and spine all at the same time.

The Coop’s winning combo of versatility and performance won over our product tester Meredith, who rated it 10 out of 10 for ease of use, support, effectiveness and style and design. “I like that I can tuck part of it under my knees when in a sitting or reclined position to offer leg support, which helps keep me upright when I have bad reflux. Or it’s great to put between my knees or even my full legs when lying on my side,” she raved.

Image: Meredith

Besides being oversized and versatile, the Coop Original Maternity Pillow’s signature feature is its fill: The cross-cut memory foam and microfiber fill can be adjusted based on how much support or firmness you’re seeking—and it’s also hypoallergenic. It strikes the perfect balance of being firm without being too hard, making it ideal for those sensitive, aching pregnant joints. And after baby’s born, it pulls double duty as a nursing and feeding pillow too. That’s good news for Meredith, who was so impressed with the pillow, she told us, “I’m considering keeping it out long after having my baby.”

Dimensions: 60" (L) x 9" (D) | Fabric: 60% polyester/40% bamboo-derived viscose rayon | Fill: Memory foam and microfiber | Cleaning: Both cover and pillow are machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“I love how much more support this pillow offered as compared to my previous pregnancy pillow—it’s thicker. I was worried at first when I saw it wasn’t C-shaped like many pregnancy pillows are but quickly found it’s easy to shape into whatever form you need.”

Buy Now

Best size-adjustable pregnancy pillow

Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
Image: Belly Bandit
What We Love
  • Fully adjustable
  • Easy to store and comes with a travel case
  • Developed by an ob-gyn
Things To Consider
  • Can’t change position while sleeping

Every pregnancy is unique, but one thing is for certain: Your size and shape is going to change over the next nine+ months. For a pregnancy pillow that will grow with you, we love the Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow, our Best of The Bump winner for best size-adjustable pregnancy pillow. It features a unique three-piece design, complete with a back wedge, stomach pillow and a Velcro strip that allows you to adjust and secure the pieces for a perfect fit, no matter what point you’re at in your pregnancy. The adjustability of the Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper wowed our product tester Michellee, who gushed: “I’ve had other pregnancy pillows where the Velcro was limited to how much you can adjust it, but on this one the entire strap is Velcro, which helped support tremendously.” Plus, she reported that adjusting the pillow couldn't have been easier: “There’s no complication to adjusting anything here.”

Image: Michellee

The SOS Side Sleeper was designed by ob-gyns to provide expectant mamas with restful—and safe—slumber by keeping you lying on your side. Besides creating a safe and supportive sleep environment, this pregnancy pillow takes up little space in the bed, and thanks to a convenient and included travel case, it’s easy to both store and transport. It also earned top scores from Michellee for ease of use, support, quality and value, making it a winner all around. “It’s easy to adjust. It’s easy to store away. It’s easy to use. It’s easy to clean,” she told us.

Dimensions: N/A | Fabric: 62% polyester, 33% rayon/5% spandex | Fill: Polyurethane | Cleaning: Cases are machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“A simple but effective product. This is definitely something I could see being on every pregnant woman’s must-have list!”

Buy Now

Best pregnancy pillow for travel

ON SALE 20% OFF
Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow
Image: Boppy
Buying Options
List: $34.99 SAVE $7.00 (20%)
Amazon|$27.99
Boppy|$35Target|$34.99
What We Love
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Pillow is machine-washable
  • Affordable price point
Things To Consider
  • Not as supportive in the back

Taking your pregnancy pillow on the go doesn’t have to be cumbersome and clunky. With dimensions of just 24 inches long and 14 inches wide and weighing in at less than two pounds, the Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow is compact enough to hit the road with ease. And when you arrive at your destination, you can expect top of the line comfort, thanks to the Boppy pillow’s double wedge design that supports your belly and back. “The pillow felt extremely supportive for my bump,” our product tester Christine reported.

Image: Christine

The Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow’s small size doesn’t just make sense for travel, though. It’s also useful for those living in tight spaces and lacking storage—or those seeking an option that doesn’t take over their whole bed, like Christine. “[It] didn't interfere with my partner’s (or my toddler's!) sleep,” she said. And when the pillow is not in use, it can easily be tucked away. “It's small enough and easy enough to put back into the packaging without a struggle and store under my bed,” Christine told us.

In addition to its portable size and top-notch support, this pregnancy pillow also earned top scores in ease of use, ease of cleaning, quality and style and design. With performance like this, the Boppy Side Sleeper is a pillow you’ll want to take everywhere with you—and thanks to its design, you can.

Dimensions: 24" (L) x 14" (W) | Fabric: 95% cotton/5% spandex (slipcover), 80% polyester/20% cotton (pillow) | Fill: 100% polyester | Cleaning: Cover and pillow are machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“The quality of the pillow is absolutely beautiful. The fabric is soft, and the filling is fluffy and supportive. The pillow is very plush, and I love how the center piece is flat but soft for your back. This pillow was truly like a cloud and very comfortable.”

Buy Now

Best budget-friendly pregnancy pillow

Pharmedoc Pregnancy C-Shape Full Body Pillow
Image: Pharmedoc
What We Love
  • Around half the price of similar pillows
  • Provides head, neck, belly, back and leg support
  • Soft, machine-washable cover
Things To Consider
  • Takes up a lot of space

Shopping for pregnancy pillows can cause sticker shock, particularly when you think it’s something you’ll only use for a few months. But the Pharmedoc Pregnancy C-Shape Full Body Pillow takes the sting out of the purchase in more ways than one: The supportive C-shape design provides comfort, pain relief and sleep aid for pregnancy and beyond—and does so at a significantly lower price than many of its competitors, which our tester Juanita appreciated. “It isn’t crazy expensive and it does the job just right.” In fact, 14 percent of the women we surveyed said they used Pharmedoc pregnancy pillows.

Image: Juanita

Even better, the low price tag doesn’t come at the cost of quality—which Juanita described as “amazing” and rated a 10 out of 10. The polyester fill holds its shape, doesn’t sag after repeated use and provides a comfortable cushion for any areas that may be particularly sore. For Juanita, that was her back—and the Pharmedoc pregnancy pillow brought significant relief. “It has helped my back so much,” she gushed. Another area where this pillow’s quality shines is the removable cover, which is made of a super-soft jersey cotton and is easy to wash and care for. To sum it up, those seeking a budget-friendly option should look no further—the Pharmedoc pregnancy pillow is the one.

Dimensions: 57” (L) x 30” (W) x 7” (H) | Fabric: Jersey cotton | Fill: Polyester | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says:
“It has eased my pain where I’ve had it. It has also helped me fall asleep a lot quicker and longer at night [] The price is perfect!”

Our community says:

I like that it is easy to use and versatile. – April, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

I like the shape and structure of the pillow and that I can use it for more than just sleeping. – Cecelia*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

It's comfortable and provides support. – Selena*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Pregnancy Pillows Comparison Chart

Overall best pregnancy pillowBest pregnancy pillow for belly supportBest pregnancy pillow for back painBest pregnancy pillow for hip painBest pregnancy pillow for natural stomach sleepersBest pregnancy pillow for natural back sleepersBest pregnancy pillow for sweaty sleepersBest pregnancy pillow for versatilityBest size-adjustable pregnancy pillowBest pregnancy pillow for travelBest budget-friendly pregnancy pillow
Overall Best
Momcozy Huggable U-Shaped Maternity Body Pillow
Leachco Back N Belly Chic Supreme Contoured Pillow
babybub Bub's Maternity Pillow
bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow
Leachco Snoogle Pregnancy Pillow
Boppy Full Body Side Sleeper Pillow
Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Body Pillow
Coop Original Maternity Adjustable Pillow
Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow
Pharmedoc Pregnancy C-Shape Full Body Pillow
Price$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$
Dimensions57" (L) x 27.6" (W) x 9” (H) 55" (L) x 33" (W) x 8.5" (H)15.7" (L) x 13.2" (W) x 2.7" (H)57" (L) x 7.5" (H) 58.8" (L) x 25.5" (W) x 7.8" (H)54" (L) x 30" (W) x 7" (H)54” (L) x 9” (W) x 9” (H)60" (L) x 9" (D)N/A 24" (L) x 14" (W) 57” (L) x 30” (W) x 7” (H)
TypeU-shapeU-shapeDouble wedgeC, U, L or I shapeC-shapeC-shapeI, C, L or U shapeJ-, U-, or I-shapedWedgeDouble wedgeC-shape
Washable cover
FillMemory foamPolyesterPolyester and microfiber blendSilicon pebblesPolyester fiberPolyester fiberMicrobeadMemory foam and microfiberPolyurethanePolyesterPolyester
Weight7 lbs.8.3 lbs.1 lb.4.6 lbs.5 lbs.4.4 lbs.4.4 lbs. 7.2 lbs. N/A1.7 lbs.5.7 lbs.
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*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.

Which Type of Pregnancy Pillow is Best for You?

Pregnancy pillows are important for both comfort and safety—but which type should you choose? There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to maternity pillows; “it really depends on the various needs and concerns about sleep and rest,” says Twogood. To simplify your search, we’ve listed the main types of pregnancy pillows and detailed the pros and cons of each below, so you can pick the best option for you.

U-shaped pregnancy pillow

This pregnancy pillow is the size of your body and, as the name implies, is shaped like a contoured U (with you nestled in the center). “U-shaped pillows are best for full body support,” explains Gil Weiss, MD, an ob-gyn based in Chicago. This style of pillow does it all, supporting your head, neck, back, hips, legs and bump.

Depending on your sleep position, you can use it to prop yourself up if you’re a back-sleeper or sandwich your front and back once you begin sleeping on your side in the second trimester, with the edge of the pregnancy pillow tucked between your legs. You can slip your arm underneath the pillow and rest your head right on top. But keep in mind that this type of pregnancy pillow will take up a good amount of space (hopefully your partner won’t mind welcoming it into your bed!).

C-shaped pregnancy pillow

This is another type of large pregnancy body pillow, but it’s shaped like a C instead of a U. In particular, “C-shaped pillows are best at supporting a baby bump,” says Weiss. Some C-shaped pregnancy pillows curve around your entire body to support both your back and bump, while others contour your front only. You can rest your head at the top, prop up your bump (and possibly back) with the side and tuck the bottom of the C between your legs.

I-, J- and L-shaped pregnancy pillows

Though less common, there are also I-, J- and L-shaped pregnancy pillows. J- and L-shaped pillows are essentially the same: While sleeping on your side, they provide support along your body (either front or back) with a section that can either go under your head or between your knees, depending on how it’s turned. An I-shaped pillow serves as more of a body pillow and can provide support along your back or underneath your belly—but not both, which is a benefit of the previously described shapes. I-, J- and L-shaped pillows can serve as a happy medium between the larger-sized C- and U-shaped pregnancy pillows and the much smaller wedge pillows (detailed below), providing full-body support without dominating the bed.

Pregnancy wedge pillow

A wedge is much smaller and less expensive than other pregnancy pillows; it’s designed to support a targeted area—typically your bump or back. To use it, slip the wedge under your belly to relieve the weight of your bump, or tuck it behind you to ensure you don’t roll over flat onto your back overnight. If you enjoy spooning with your partner but need some support for your bump, this is a great cuddle-friendly pick.

Image: The Bump

What to Consider When Buying a Pregnancy Pillow

As you search for the best pregnancy pillow to suit your needs, you’ll want to consider a few key factors:

  • Preferred sleep position. Are you normally inclined to be a side sleeper, back sleeper or stomach sleeper? While stomach sleepers have obvious challenges adjusting to pregnancy, back sleepers have different hurdles to overcome, and different pillows are designed to address those challenges.
  • Firmness and support. Do you like firm foam or a softer fill? What’s going to feel best against your back or bump? If you’re picky about firmness and density, pay extra attention to find a pregnancy pillow that meets your needs.
  • Fabric. As with any sleep accessory (who doesn’t like high-quality bed linen?), it’s important to think about fabric. Cotton or bamboo is soft and naturally breathable, making it a good option for people who run hot, while pillows made with polyester tend to be more affordable. Bear in mind that you’ll be sleeping with this pillow every night for months, so it’s a good idea to opt for one with a removable and machine-washable cover.
  • Aches and pains. Spent most of your pregnancy nursing an aching back? Or are sore hips what’s keeping you up at night? Take note of your primary source of discomfort, and seek out a pregnancy pillow designed to help alleviate those specific concerns.

When to Start Using a Pregnancy Pillow

You can start to use a maternity pillow at any time during your pregnancy, although many moms-to-be appreciate the support in the second or third trimester. At this point, your bump will be larger and it becomes important to sleep on your side instead of your back. “I recommend starting to use the pillow around 28 weeks, when the weight of the uterus and baby is heavy enough to possibly compress the major blood vessel” found along your back, says Christian Pope, DO, an ob-gyn at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Too much pressure on the inferior vena cava can inhibit blood flow, causing low blood pressure, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms. “The effects of low blood pressure on baby can also be dangerous if it occurs for prolonged periods of time,” explains Pope. Health concerns aside, the common aches and pains of pregnancy that a maternity pillow strives to alleviate tend to kick in after your first trimester is behind you.

So why else should you make the switch to a pregnancy pillow? While regular pillows serve as headrests, the best pregnancy pillows are designed to ease various body aches. They’re also super handy for keeping you on your side throughout the night—the recommended sleep position for expectant moms. According to our survey data, 65 percent of pregnant women we reached out to were using a pregnancy pillow. When we asked why, they gave us the following reasons:

  • 68% To help generally improve my sleep
  • 54% To help me as a side sleeper
  • 48% To help with backache
  • 48% To help with hip pain
  • 38% To help me as a natural stomach sleeper
  • 25% To help me as a back sleeper
  • 24% To help with leg aches
  • 13% To help me sleep as a petite person
  • 6% To help me sleep as a tall person
  • 6% To help me sleep as a plus-size person
Image: The Bump

How to Use a Pregnancy Pillow

Sleeping with a pregnancy pillow will vary depending on the type of pillow you selected, from the all-encompassing U-shaped pillows to the compact wedge designs. Often, the pillow you purchase will have a guide or instructions on how to position the pillow for optimal sleep—but there are also some general guidelines that can help you get comfy with your newest bedmate. “I usually recommend placing a soft pillow under your right hip and buttock to tilt the body to the left a little,” says Pope. Additionally, having the support of a pillow underneath your belly can prevent straining on your back, while cushioning between your knees helps to keep your hips aligned. For those with back pain or to prevent rolling, positioning the pillow along your back might be more beneficial than hugging it in the front.

“Really any way they feel best,” says Twogood. “There is no one perfect position.” Ultimately, how you sleep with your maternity pillow will be unique to you. “For example, if your hips are hurting, try sleeping with the top leg on top of the pillow (from the inner thigh down to the foot),” she explains. No matter what way you decide to position your pillow, Weiss recommends sleeping on your left side, which promotes “blood flow to the pregnant uterus, decreasing acid reflux and even reducing rates of stillborn.”

But finding the perfect sleeping position with your pregnancy pillow will require some trial and error, and one size doesn’t fit all. Luckily, most of the pregnancy pillows featured here can all be used in various positions—allowing you to tweak until you find your sweet (or, in this case, sleep) spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a pregnancy pillow after birth?

Once baby arrives, you may be wondering what to do with your maternity pillow. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to continue using it. Twogood suggests using it as an extra couch cushion, a prop on the floor for playtime or a backrest in bed. “A patient of mine’s husband started using it to sleep,” she added. What’s more, Weiss recommends using pillows “to relieve pain after delivery or even to help facilitate a comfortable breastfeeding position.” All in all, these workhorse pillows can be used throughout the fourth trimester and beyond.

Can I use a standard pillow rather than a pregnancy pillow?

“Absolutely,” says Twogood. If you want to test out how a maternity pillow may work for your sleeping habits before committing to one, she suggests trying regular king-size pillows first. “A rolled-up blanket can even be used in a pinch,” adds Weiss. The bottom line? If normal pillows work for you, go for it! “But,” Twogood reminds, “there’s definitely a reason pregnancy pillows are popular; they just seem to provide more support and options than a regular pillow.”

About the writer:

Lynsey Eidell has researched and written dozens of product reviews for The Bump, from the best pregnancy belly bands to the best baby bassinets and beyond. She’s also written about entertainment, pop culture, weddings and motherhood for digital publications including PEOPLE, Glamour, Vanity Fair, Teen Vogue, Allure and more. She is a graduate of Villanova University and a native of Fairfield County, Connecticut, where she currently lives with her family. When she’s not busy writing, she is kept equally busy by her three young boys, who are 8, 5 and 4.

Interested in becoming a product tester for The Bump? Head here to apply.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Sources

Sara Twogood, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified ob-gyn at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and has more than 15 years of experience in medicine. She’s also the author of Ladypartsblog.com, which covers topics relating to fertility and pregnancy, and the co-founder of Female Health Education, a program established in 2020 that's designed to empower females through health education.

Gil Weiss, MD, is an ob-gyn based in Chicago and Northbrook, Illinois. He’s a graduate of the University of Toronto in Canada and attended medical school at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa, Israel. He completed his residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Christian Pope, DO, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in private practice at South Coast Health in Massachusetts. He is also a medical staff member at St. Luke’s Hospital of Southcoast Hospitals and at Women and Infants’ Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. Additionally, he serves as a clinical instructor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Warren Alpert Brown University School of Medicine. A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pope received his obstetrics and gynecology training at the Tufts University School of Medicine, Baystate Medical Center.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Ask ACOG: Can I Sleep On My Back When I'm Pregnant?, January 2021

Brazilian Journal of Anesthesiology, Low back pain during pregnancy, May-June 2017

The Bump May 2023 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of 300 new and expectant parents from among The Bump community, and asked which pregnancy pillow they used and what they liked and didn’t like about it.

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