Getting comfortable at night gets harder as a pregnancy goes on, and many mums-to-be start looking for a pregnancy pillow. You'll see big U-shaped and C-shaped pillows, and simple straight body pillows like a cuddle pillow. Here's how they compare, so you can choose what suits you and your bed.
This guide is general information about comfort, not medical advice. Always follow your doctor's guidance about sleep positions during pregnancy.
Why a long pillow helps during pregnancy
Many doctors advise sleeping on your side, especially later in pregnancy. Side sleeping is more comfortable with support in the right places: something to hug, something between your knees to keep your hips aligned, and something to rest your bump on. A long pillow can do all three at once, instead of juggling several small pillows that slip away during the night.
Types of pregnancy pillows
| Type | What it is | Good for | Things to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight body pillow (cuddle pillow) | A long, straight pillow you hug | Support for knees, arms and bump on one side | Compact, easy to move, useful long after pregnancy |
| C-shaped | Curves around the head, back and legs | Back and front support together | Takes more space in the bed |
| U-shaped | Wraps around both sides of the body | Support on both sides, no need to move the pillow when turning | Very large, often too big for a shared double bed |
Why many people choose a straight cuddle pillow
- It fits a normal bed: a straight pillow takes much less room than a U-shape, which matters when you share the bed.
- It's flexible: hug it, put it between your knees, tuck it behind your back, or sit up against it to read or feed.
- It lasts beyond pregnancy: after your baby arrives it is still a comfortable cuddle pillow and backrest for years.
- It's easy to keep clean: a removable cover can go in the wash while the pillow stays fresh.
How to use a cuddle pillow for side sleeping
- Lie on your side with the pillow running along the front of your body.
- Hug the top end with your arms and rest your head on your own pillow.
- Bring your top knee over the pillow so it sits between your knees, keeping your hips level.
- Let the middle of the pillow support your bump.
Our cuddle pillow
The Seevo cuddle pillow is a long, straight body pillow, 20 x 54 inches / 50 x 137 cm (about 4.5 feet), filled with 100% microfiber that is soft to hug but holds its shape. It is our bestselling product, and many mums-to-be use it for extra support at night. The cover is sold separately: choose a smooth satin cuddle pillow cover in 16 colours, or a breathable cotton cuddle pillow cover in 5 colours, which many people prefer on warm nights.
Want to know more about using a long pillow every day? Read our guide to cuddle pillow benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cuddle pillow the same as a pregnancy pillow?
A cuddle pillow is one kind of pregnancy pillow: a straight body pillow. C-shaped and U-shaped pillows are larger designs that curve around the body.
When should I start using a pregnancy pillow?
Whenever you start finding it hard to get comfortable. Many people start in the second trimester as the bump grows.
Can I keep using it after pregnancy?
Yes. A straight cuddle pillow stays useful as a body pillow for side sleeping and as a backrest for reading or feeding.