How To Use Your Natty Pillow

Pillow not working for you? 92% of moms solved the problem by reading this

IN THIS PAGE

What to do if:

  1. I’m waking up with back pain
  2. I can’t get rid of hip or pelvic pain
  3. There’s too much pressure on my bump or back

1. I’M WAKING UP WITH BACK PAIN

Is your back pain old, or has it started happening after using the pillow?


1.1. For old back pain

If you’ve had ongoing back problems, there’s no easy fix. The pillow is going to be part of your ongoing pain management strategy – along with ice, massage, nutrition – whatever has been working for you, to manage this kind of pain so you don’t wake up feeling even worse.

In these cases, do still follow the suggestions below to get the best out of your pillow. Often, you’ll want to use it consistently for a good, long stretch of time – at least a month – so you can do a proper and unbiased reassessment of your pain levels.

1.2. For new back pain

If you've tried NATTY pillow for a few nights and notice that you're waking up with back pain, there are a few reasons why this could be:

    • YOUR PILLOWS ARE TOO CLOSE TOGETHER
      It's possible that the pillows haven't been adjusted well, leaving insufficient space for your back or bump. This causes excessive pressure on your back, preventing it from comfortably fitting into the curve and resting. Adjust the length of your pillows, and while it may require some trial and error, you'll feel the difference right away and can make further adjustments as needed!

    • YOUR BACK ISN’T SUPPORTED ENOUGH
      As your tummy grows and becomes heavier, the inadequate support will let your bump sink into the mattress, leading to your back bearing the weight. Although not immediately apparent, this discomfort becomes noticeable after a few hours. To address this, use the small additional pillow, placing it where it provides the most relief (bump or back).

    • BACK PILLOW IS TOO FIRM
      This could be a matter of personal preference, as some people prefer firmer surfaces while others are accustomed to softer support. If you're not used to sleeping on a firmer mattress, you may find the back pillow too solid for your liking. To address this, try removing some stuffing from the pillow to make it more comfortable and yielding.

    • YOUR BACK PILLOW IS POSITIONED TOO HIGH
      As your bump grows, the distribution of weight shifts, which means your usual positioning and pillow placement may no longer be optimal. Particularly in later term pregnancy, if your bump sits low, you'll require the majority of support on the lowest part of your back.
      Experiment with different placements to find the most comfortable position. You should notice a difference within a few nights, if not the first one or two.

2. I CAN’T GET RID OF HIP OR PELVIC PAIN

If you're still experiencing hip and/or pelvic pain despite using the Natty Pillow, other factors beyond the pillow might be contributing to it.

While the Natty Pillow effectively reduces hip and pelvic pain caused by uncomfortable sleeping positions, it's important to recognise that not all pregnancy-related hip pain originates from sleeping (in reality, most of it doesn't!).

Individual experiences vary; some moms may find the Natty Pillow sufficient, while others may require additional support to alleviate their discomfort.

2.1 YOUR TOP LEG IS FALLING TOWARDS YOUR LOWER LEG

When side-sleeping, the weight of your upper leg can cause your pelvis to uncomfortably flex over your body. This is due to the loosening of joints and ligaments in preparation for childbirth, thanks to hormonal changes. As a result, you may experience hip and pelvic pain due to the downward force.
To alleviate this, place the long version of the pillow or an adequate cushioning between your legs to ensure your top leg forms a straight angle with your body. In other words, ensure both legs are parallel to each other and your knees are pointing forward rather than inward.

 

3. THERE’S TOO MUCH PRESSURE ON MY BUMP OR BACK

If you sense that the Natty Pillow is exerting excessive pressure on your bump, back, or causing discomfort in certain areas, there are several potential reasons with simple solutions:

3.1 YOUR PILLOWS ARE TOO CLOSE TOGETHER

The pillows may be positioned too closely together, exerting pressure on your bump or back. Although you might not notice it immediately, prolonged contact with your bump or back can result in discomfort. It's similar to the sensation of developing a blister from wearing new shoes for an extended period of time.

Solution: Adjust the length of your pillows to provide adequate space for your back and bump. Ensure that the edges of the front and back pillows are not pressing or digging into your body. This adjustment will help alleviate the pressure and discomfort caused by the pillows.

3.2 YOUR PILLOW IS TOO FIRM

One or both of the pillows might be too firm for your bump or back. While personal preference plays a role, as some people prefer firmer mattresses or pillows, your loosening joints and expanding skin and tummy can make you more sensitive and tender. It is important to avoid firm pressure on your changing bump and back, as they support increasing weight throughout the day. To address this, try removing some stuffing from the pillows until you find a comfortable level of support.

3.3 YOUR FRONT OR BACK PILLOW IS POSITIONED TOO HIGH OR LOW

The issue could be that the Natty pillow, designed to conform to your bump and back, might not be positioned correctly. This precision in design aims to create a "sweet spot" where the pillows cradle and support your back and bump. To address this, try testing different heights until you find your ideal position.

 

For all the solutions above, we recommend you make small adjustments each time so you can find your perfect spot, which will be unique to you. This may take a bit of fiddling but don't worry, it will all be worth it and super comfortable when you get it right!