It reduces pressure on your vena cava, which carries blood back from your lower body to your heart. It increases blood and nutrient flow to the placenta and, in turn, your baby. It improves kidney function, which can help reduce lower-body swelling.

Whenever you’re lying down during your pregnancy, rest your head on a comfy, supportive pillow—consider using a wedge pillow that elevates your upper body and reduces the likelihood of acid reflux (which is common during pregnancy). There’s no “magic” pillow type or pillow position that guarantees comfort here. Especially when you’re pregnant, comfort is a very personalized thing. So find what works for you and go with it!

You might enjoy it if your partner drapes their top arm over you and rests their hand on your belly. Don’t be shy about letting them know what you want or don’t want here!

A wedge pillow might work well here, but use any pillow or combination of pillows that’s comfy for you. Head-on-lap cuddling is great when you want to make lots of eye contact.

Propping your head up more than normal here reduces some of the pressure on your back and reduces the likelihood of experiencing an episode of acid reflux. And, as an added bonus, it gets you a little closer to your partner as they gaze lovingly into your eyes!

When it comes to pillow placement during pregnancy, remember that the number-one rule is to put them where they provide you with the most comfort.

For example, try taking a warm (not hot) bath beforehand, or have your partner massage your sore feet.

To reduce your chances of experiencing acid reflux (GERD) while lying down to cuddle, don’t eat right before your session either.

If your partner is chilly, they can accommodate you by putting on a sweater or blanket—after all, you’re the one who’s pregnant!

Just like you may have to adjust your normal cuddling positions and routines, making changes to your usual sex positions and routines may prove helpful during pregnancy. [11] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

Reduced stress, partly due to increased levels of oxytocin (the “love hormone”) and reduced levels of cortisol (the “stress hormone”). Reduced blood pressure, connected to the reduction in stress. Improved sleep, again due to lowered stress levels. Mild pain relief due to the release of oxytocin. [13] X Research source