C-Shaped vs. J-Shaped Pregnancy Pillows: Which One Should You Choose?
When I was pregnant, I had no idea how many different pregnancy pillow shapes there were. I knew about the classic U-shaped pillow, but then I discovered C-shaped and J-shaped pillows, and I was completely lost. Which one would actually help me sleep better?
After trying both, I realized the shape really matters. In this guide, I’ll break down the differences between C-shaped pregnancy pillows and J-shaped pregnancy pillows, so you can figure out which one is right for your body and sleeping style.
Table of Contents
What Is a C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow?
A C-shaped pregnancy pillow wraps around your body in the shape of a “C,” giving support to your back, belly, and between your knees.
I loved how the C-shape hugged me from behind while still giving me something to hold onto in the front. It felt secure and kept me from rolling onto my back.
➡️ My top pick: Leachco Snoogle C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow – it’s a classic for a reason.
What Is a J-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow?
A J-shaped pregnancy pillow looks like a straight body pillow with a hooked end for your head. It’s slimmer and less bulky than the C-shape, which makes it great if you have a smaller bed.
I liked the J-shaped pillow for its simplicity, but it didn’t support my back as much. If you like a traditional body pillow feel, this one’s a good choice.
➡️ My top pick: AngQi J-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow – soft, supportive, and doesn’t take up the whole bed.
C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Supports your back, belly, and knees at the same time
- Prevents you from rolling onto your back
- Great for side sleepers
Cons:
- Can feel bulky in smaller beds
- Requires you to flip the pillow when you switch sides
J-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Slimmer and takes up less space in bed
- Works well if you already have supportive pillows for your back
- Easy to move and reposition at night
Cons:
- Doesn’t support your back as much as C-shaped pillows
- Can shift around if you toss and turn a lot
Which Pregnancy Pillow Is Right for You?
Choosing between a C-shaped and a J-shaped pregnancy pillow depends on your needs and space.
- If you want full-body support and tend to roll onto your back, a C-shaped pillow is the better choice.
- If you prefer something slimmer and easier to move, go for the J-shaped pillow.
➡️ You can find my favorite C-shaped and J-shaped pregnancy pillows on Amazon here (#your-amazon-affiliate-link).
My Final Thoughts
Both shapes can help you sleep more comfortably during pregnancy. Personally, I preferred the C-shaped pillow in my second and third trimesters because it kept me fully supported. But in the early months, the J-shaped pillow was less bulky and easier to use.
If you’re still unsure, think about your sleeping position, bed size, and how much support you want for your back. Either way, a pregnancy pillow will change the way you sleep for the better.
➡️ Click here to shop the best pregnancy pillows on Amazon
When I first tried the C-shaped pregnancy pillow, I wasn’t used to having something behind my back at night. But within a few days, I realized how much it helped me stay on my side and avoid waking up with back pain.
One thing I loved about the C-shape is that it cradles your entire body. The curve behind your back adds extra support, while the front keeps your belly lifted and relieves hip pressure. It’s perfect if you toss and turn a lot because it keeps you secure.
That said, the J-shaped pregnancy pillow was a lifesaver in the early months when my belly wasn’t as big. It felt less bulky and was easier to move around if I needed to change positions in the middle of the night.
I also noticed that the J-shaped pillow worked better when I combined it with another pillow behind my back. This gave me similar support to the C-shaped pillow but with more flexibility.
If you’re short on space, the J-shaped pillow takes up less room and doesn’t dominate the bed the way a C-shaped pillow can. This is a big advantage if you share your bed with a partner and don’t want to crowd them out.
One drawback of the J-shaped pillow is that it can shift around more easily. I’d wake up sometimes and have to reposition it, especially in my third trimester when I was moving less at night.
The C-shaped pillow, on the other hand, stays in place better because it wraps around you. It feels more secure and supportive, which is important if you’re struggling with hip or back pain.
I also discovered that the C-shaped pillow can double as a nursing pillow after pregnancy. Its shape makes it easy to wrap around your body while holding your baby, which makes it more versatile in the long run.
Another tip I learned was to fluff and adjust the filling regularly, especially with the C-shaped pillow. This kept it from flattening out and made it more comfortable over time.
If you travel a lot or plan to take your pillow to the couch or other rooms, the J-shaped pillow is easier to carry. It’s lighter and less cumbersome, which made it my go-to during the day.
Some moms I’ve talked to even use both pillows at different stages. The J-shaped pillow works well in the first and early second trimester, while the C-shaped pillow becomes more necessary as your belly gets larger.
At the end of the day, think about how much support you need and how much space you have in bed. If you’re dealing with a lot of discomfort and need maximum support, the C-shaped pillow is a great choice. If you prefer something more minimalist, go for the J-shaped pillow.