Whether you’ll need a pregnancy pillow varies from mother to mother and from pregnancy to pregnancy. It will depend on the amount of weight gained, the size and position of the baby, and whether you’re at risk or suffering any complications. Comfort will also be a driving force regardless.

It’s recommended that pregnant women lie and sleep on their side; preferably the left. Lying on your back can restrict oxygen to the developing baby and slow its development. Additionally, lying on your left side helps positions the stomach and esophagus so acid reflux, suffered by many women, is lessened.

By using a pregnancy pillow, you’ll add support under your baby bump and reduce stress on your back and abdomen muscles. Pregnancy pillows also generally wrap around your back to help prevent you rolling on to it while you sleep. And they provide a cushion between your legs and provide head support too. It would take two to three ordinary pillows to accomplish the same level of comfort and they’d likely slip loose during the night.

Of course you may not require a dedicated pregnancy pillow and there’s nothing wrong with not using one. However, if you find yourself tossing and turning or waking up with aches and pains - it may be worth the small investment. Larger pillows range in price from $30 to $60 on average. Pregnancy pillows are not cost prohibitive and make a terrific gift for mommy’s-to-be from soon-to-be-dads (hint hint).

So even thought they’re not usually a medical necessity (unless direct by your doctor) pregnancy pillows can provide a little extra comfort an expecting mom needs - whether for sleeping, resting, or lounging.