Why Put A Pillow Between Legs When Pregnant?

Pregnancy comes with a world of changes—some magical, some… less so. As your body adjusts, getting comfortable at night can feel like an impossible mission. As a neonatal nurse who has worked closely with countless new mums, I’ve seen the difference the right tools (and a good pillow) can make. Trust me, a strategically placed pillow between your legs isn’t just about comfort—it’s a game changer.

Putting a pillow between your legs during pregnancy helps improve spinal alignment, reduce pressure on your hips, and ease lower back pain, all while promoting better circulation. Using a specialised knee pillow like the Butterfly Knee Cloud® offers targeted support for ultimate comfort and restful sleep.

What Are the Benefits of Putting a Pillow Between Legs During Pregnancy?

• Improves Spinal Alignment: Pregnancy shifts your body’s centre of gravity, which can lead to back strain. A knee pillow helps maintain a neutral spine position, reducing discomfort and pain.
• Reduces Hip and Pelvic Pain: By aligning your hips, a pillow eases the strain on these critical areas, making side-sleeping much more comfortable.
• Enhances Circulation: Placing a pillow between your legs promotes better blood flow, which is essential for both you and your baby.
• Eases Sciatica Pain: For mums losing sleep over sciatica because of that sharp, radiating pain down the leg, a knee pillow minimises pressure on the sciatic nerve, offering relief.

What Are the Best Sleep Positions for Pregnant Women?

• Side-Sleeping (Left Side Preferred): Sleeping on your left side improves circulation and ensures optimal blood flow to the placenta. Adding a pillow like the Butterfly Knee Cloud® ensures proper hip alignment and reduces strain.
• Semi-Reclined Position: If side-sleeping isn’t your thing, propping yourself up slightly with pillows can help alleviate reflux and support your growing belly.

How Do You Use a Pillow Between Your Legs for Maximum Comfort?

Using a knee pillow is simple but impactful:

• Place the pillow between your knees while lying on your side.
• Ensure your legs are parallel, which keeps your hips aligned and your spine neutral.
• Adjust the position until it feels just right. A specialised pillow like the Butterfly Knee Cloud® is designed to stay in place, so you won’t wake up hunting for it.

Do You Need a Special Pillow or Can You Use a Regular One?

Specialised pillows, like the Butterfly Knee Cloud®, are ergonomically designed to provide targeted support, making them a superior choice for alleviating discomfort during pregnancy. Unlike regular pillows, which may shift during the night or lack the specific shape needed for proper hip alignment, the Butterfly Knee Cloud® stays in place and ensures consistent support.

Made from sustainable materials, this durable and soft pillow is crafted for nightly use throughout pregnancy, offering long-lasting comfort while promoting proper alignment for a restful night’s sleep. Check it out here. 

Tips for Relieving Pain During Sleep in Pregnancy

• Combine the Butterfly Knee Cloud® and a Maternity Pillow: Together, they offer full-body support, aligning your hips while cradling your belly and back.
• Use a Supportive Mattress: A good mattress complements your pillow setup by maintaining proper spinal alignment.
• Stretch Before Bed: Gentle prenatal yoga or stretches can loosen tight muscles and reduce pain.
• Keep the Room Comfortable: Adjust the temperature and use dim lighting to encourage relaxation and better sleep.
• Maintain a Consistent Routine: Going to bed at the same time each night helps signal your body it’s time to rest.

Can the Butterfly Knee Cloud® Help with Leg and Back Support?

Absolutely. Here’s why the Butterfly Knee Cloud® is a must-have for pregnancy comfort:

• Relieves Pressure: Its ergonomic design supports your knees and aligns your hips to reduce strain.
• Promotes Circulation: Proper alignment enhances blood flow to your lower body, critical during pregnancy.
• Sustainably Made: The soft, durable materials provide long-lasting comfort and eco-conscious support.

Using it alongside a maternity pillow ensures you’re supported from head to toe, no matter how much your body changes.

FAQs

Can I use the Butterfly Knee Cloud® after pregnancy?

Yes, it’s great for continued comfort during postpartum recovery, especially for side-sleeping or easing strain from nursing positions.

Do I need a maternity pillow if I have a knee pillow?

Both are highly recommended. While the knee pillow supports your hips and legs, the maternity pillow cradles your belly and back for full-body comfort.

How do I keep my knee pillow from slipping at night?

The Butterfly Knee Cloud® is designed with durable, non-slip materials to stay in place during sleep.

Can a knee pillow help with swelling during pregnancy?

Yes, by improving circulation, a knee pillow can help reduce swelling in your legs and feet.

Closing Thoughts

Pregnancy is full of surprises, but sleepless nights don’t have to be one of them. A pillow between your legs, especially the Butterfly Knee Cloud®, can be the key to restful, comfortable sleep. It aligns your body, eases pain, and promotes better circulation—benefits you’ll feel the moment you lie down. Explore our store to find the perfect addition to your pregnancy sleep routine and make every night a little easier.