Pregnant and struggling to sleep? A weighted blanket might help, but is it safe? Pregnancy comes with a host of new challenges and concerns, and while weighted blankets have their benefits, they may not be the best choice for pregnant women.
Weighted blankets can restrict movement, increasing the risk of pain and discomfort. They can also cause overheating, all of which could make your nights even more restless.
Below, we’ll dive into the potential risks of using a weighted blanket during pregnancy, including restricted blood flow and pressure on the abdomen. We’ll also explore a pregnancy-safe alternative to weighted blankets for restful, worry-free sleep.
Are Weighted Blankets Okay While Pregnant?
Weighted blankets are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but there are potential risks you should be aware of. Issues like overheating, restricted movement, and pressure on your growing belly can make using a weighted blanket more uncomfortable than helpful and possibly even unsafe.
If you’re looking for the same calming benefits without the downsides, consider The Original Weighted Pillow as a pregnancy-friendly alternative. Its compact size and targeted deep-touch pressure are designed for both comfort and safety.
Risks of Using a Weighted Blanket While Pregnant
While weighted blankets can be soothing, pregnancy requires extra consideration when it comes to your personal comfort and the safety of your growing baby. The added weight of a weighted blanket may lead to some unwanted side effects that are worth considering. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Overheating and Temperature Regulation
Pregnancy naturally raises your body temperature, making overheating a common cause of discomfort - especially as you progress into the second and third trimesters. The extra weight and insulation of a weighted blanket can trap heat and make it difficult for your body to cool down.
This can lead to discomfort, restless nights, and even dehydration if not managed properly. If you are in the later stages of pregnancy, consider opting for a weighted pillow instead. It will provide the same benefits without the risk of trapping heat.
Restricted Blood Flow
As your pregnancy progresses, maintaining good circulation becomes increasingly challenging. During the second and third trimesters, your body is already working harder to support increased blood flow, and the added weight of a weighted blanket can restrict circulation - especially if you stay in one position for an extended period.
Restricted blood flow can lead to numbness, tingling, and discomfort, making it harder to sleep peacefully. If you are concerned about good circulation during your pregnancy, consider a weighted pillow instead. Its compact form offers targeted pressure without the risk of restricting blood flow.
Increased Risk of Joint and Back Pain
As your belly grows during pregnancy, joint and back pain often become more common. The added weight of the blanket can intensify this discomfort. The extra pressure can strain your joints, and the weight can make it difficult to change positions during sleep, leading to back pain and increased stiffness.
If joint or back pain are a concern for you during pregnancy, a weighted blanket may not provide the relief you’re hoping for. Consider a weighted pillow for the same calming benefits of Deep Pressure Stimulation without the added strain on your body.
Pressure On the Abdomen
As you progress into the later stages of pregnancy, it’s important to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your stomach. The added weight of a weighted blanket, particularly if it shifts or bunches up, can place unwanted pressure on your belly, possibly causing discomfort or making it harder to breathe comfortably.
To avoid this, you may want to avoid the use of a weighted blanket during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. A weighted pillow is a safer alternative, offering the same soothing benefits in a compact and targeted form.
Why a Weighted Pillow is a Safer Alternative During Pregnancy
If the potential risks of using a weighted blanket during pregnancy have you reconsidering your options, there’s good news! You don’t have to give up the benefits of Deep Pressure Stimulation. A weighted pillow offers the same calming effects in a more compact form, making it an ideal choice for use during pregnancy.
Versatility and Ease of Use
One of the key advantages of a weighted pillow is its versatility. Unlike a bulky blanket, the compact design of a weighted pillow makes it easier to use in a variety of positions, whether you’re sitting, lying down, or resting it between your knees for additional support during sleep.
Flexibility is important during pregnancy, as your comfort needs change throughout each trimester. A weighted pillow is also easy to adjust during the night, allowing you to shift positions without the hassle of moving a heavy blanket. Its portability means that you can take it anywhere for the calming benefits of Deep Pressure Stimulation on the go.
A Cooler Option for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy, staying cool and comfortable is key to getting a good night’s sleep. A weighted pillow provides targeted pressure without the extra insulation, eliminating the risk of overheating. Its compact design allows for better airflow and less heat retention, making it a much cooler and more comfortable alternative during pregnancy.
Freedom of Movement and Increased Safety
As your body changes throughout pregnancy, mobility and freedom of movement can already be challenging. A weighted pillow provides soothing pressure in a compact form, making it easy to adjust and reposition throughout the night.
Its smaller size allows you to move more freely and find the most comfortable sleeping position without restriction. This increased flexibility supports better circulation, reduces the risk of stiffness or chronic pain, and enhances overall safety as your needs evolve in the second and third trimesters.
Why Use a Weighted Pillow or Blanket During Pregnancy?
The calming effects of Deep Pressure Stimulation from a weighted pillow or blanket can offer a range of benefits during pregnancy. From reducing anxiety to improving sleep quality, these tools can help you feel more relaxed and supported throughout the journey. Let’s take a look!
Reduces Anxiety and Stress
The Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS) provided by a weighted blanket or pillow helps stimulate the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of calm and well-being. This can be especially helpful during pregnancy, when anxiety levels may increase due to hormonal changes and physical discomfort.
Promotes Quality Sleep
The gentle pressure from a weighted blanket or pillow mimics the calming effect of a hug, which can trigger the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Studies show that these effects help promote deeper, more restful sleep - something that can be hard to come by due to physical discomfort during pregnancy.
Eases Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a common issue during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. It causes uncomfortable sensations and an urge to move the legs, which can disrupt sleep.
Deep Pressure Stimulation from a weighted pillow or blanket can help alleviate RLS by promoting relaxation and reducing the urge to move. It helps calm the nervous system, which can ease the discomfort of RLS and help relieve insomnia.
Produces a Calming Effect
Deep Pressure Stimulation from a weighted pillow or blanket has been shown to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax. This gentle pressure encourages the release of serotonin and decreases cortisol levels, producing a calming effect.
Boosts Mood
Weighted blankets and pillows promote the release of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone that helps regulate mood and overall emotional well-being. This boost in serotonin can counteract the stress and mood swings that often accompany pregnancy, helping expectant mothers feel more balanced and positive.
Tips for Using a Weighted Blanket Safely
If you choose to use a weighted blanket during pregnancy, following these safety tips will help reduce any potential risks:
- Choose the Right Weight: Opt for a blanket that’s no more than 100% of your body weight to avoid excessive pressure on your body, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
- Position It Properly: Ensure the blanket is evenly distributed over your body and doesn’t bunch up in one area to reduce the risk of undue pressure on sensitive areas.
- Monitor Body Temperature: Pregnancy increases your risk of overheating, so be sure to monitor your body temperature and remove the blanket if you become too hot.
Find Comfort and Calm During Pregnancy
While weighted blankets have their benefits, they may not always be the best choice during pregnancy. Our weighted pillow offers a safer, more versatile alternative. Its compact design delivers the same Deep Pressure Stimulation benefits without the added strain on your body.
If you’re looking for a pregnancy-friendly solution to help you sleep more soundly and feel more relaxed, The Original Weighted Pillow is an ideal choice. Experience the calming effects of Deep Pressure Stimulation, designed specifically for your needs during pregnancy.
