Cushy Puff

Though the visible signs of pregnancy may not appear until later trimesters, the first trimester sets the stage for the physical transformations to come. 

These changes are primarily driven by hormones, particularly relaxin, which prepares the body for pregnancy and childbirth by loosening the ligaments. 

This loosening is crucial for delivery, but it also causes instability in the joints, particularly in the pelvis, leading to postural shifts - The most notable being an increase in lumbar lordosis, which is an excessive arching of the lumbar spine leading to greater pressure through the spine & core structures

The increased pressure on the lumbar spine and the overcompensation by the lower back muscles can and often do lead to lower back pain, which is one of the most common complaints during early pregnancy. Even though the baby’s weight is minimal during the first trimester, the body’s preparation for the weight gain places stress on the spine and surrounding muscles.

One of the most effective ways to combat discomfort during the first trimester is by being mindful of posture. Proper posture can help minimise stress on the back, pelvis, and hips, which are vulnerable areas during early pregnancy. Women should focus on standing tall with their shoulders back and avoiding exaggerated arching of the lower back. Additionally, sitting with support for the lower back can help reduce the strain caused by the anterior pelvic tilt which the Cushypuff pregnancy pillow is specifically designed to address.

Staying active during the first trimester of pregnancy is essential for maintaining strength and flexibility, helping to combat some of the postural challenges mentioned. 

Gentle exercises, such as pelvic tilts, can strengthen the muscles of the lower back and abdomen, helping to support the spine and pelvis. It is also recommended to stretch key muscles around the hips, particularly the quad or thigh muscles & lower back muscles whilst keeping the muscles of the hamstrings, glutes, lower and upper abdominals strong Stretching exercises like cat-cow stretches can relieve tension in the back and hips, promoting better mobility and reducing stiffness.

Any core stability work the woman can do prior to pregnancy & in the first trimester can go a long way towards helping to aid the stability of the body and prepare it for the later stages of pregnancy whereby stability is key for balance, as well as for the delivery of the baby & for the woman to return to her pre-pregnancy shape after the baby is born.

An inflatable exercise ball can be a key aid for anyone looking to maintain great stability in their core muscles & joints of the body. It is highly recommended to invest in a stability ball for practising stability exercises & developing key balance faculties that will be very useful towards the end of the pregnancy.

The Cushy Puff pregnancy pillow can also help women navigate the first trimester with greater ease, maximum comfort and by ensuring that their bodies are well-supported and ready for the months ahead.

Due to the adjustable firmness of the Cushy Puff, it can be adjusted easily & quickly being a constant support of comfort throughout all stages of pregnancy with continued use in post-pregnancy due to its design with comfort & versatility in mind.

The adaptability and versatility of the pillow allow the Cushy Puff to extend to support all areas of the body in many imaginative ways to alleviate discomfort throughout the body. The Cushy Puff is one of the few pillows on the market that combine support & versatility with maximal comfort, ensuring a pleasant & relaxed experience with the use of the pillow.