PERFECT POSTURE: THE THIRD TRIMESTER
Written by: Jess Farmer
The third trimester of pregnancy is a period of rapid growth, both for your baby and your body. As your due date approaches, you may find that the physical demands of pregnancy become more challenging, particularly in terms of posture, core stability, and balance. Understanding these challenges and using tools like the Cushy Puff Pregnancy Pillow can make a significant difference in your comfort and overall well-being as you prepare for childbirth.
POSTURAL SHIFTS & LUMBAR LORDOSIS
In the third trimester, a major challenge is the shift in posture as your baby grows. Your centre of gravity moves forward, causing your pelvis to tilt and your lower back to curve more, known as lumbar lordosis. While necessary for accommodating your growing uterus, this often leads to discomfort in the lower back and pelvis due to increased pressure on the lumbar vertebrae.
As your abdominal muscles stretch and weaken, core stability decreases, forcing the lower back and hip muscles to compensate, resulting in muscle fatigue and pain.
ALLEVIATING DISCOMFORT WITH CUSHY PUFF
Whether you need extra support for your lower back, hips, or belly, the Cushy Puff can be tailored to relieve pressure on the lumbar spine and improve your overall posture.
Using the Cushy Puff during sleep can also help maintain proper alignment, reducing the strain on your lower back and pelvis. By placing the pillow between your knees or under your belly while side-sleeping, you can ensure that your spine remains in a neutral position, which can significantly reduce back pain and promote better rest.
ENHANCING CORE STABILITY & PROPRIOCEPTION
As your abdominal muscles stretch, core stability becomes essential for supporting your spine, pelvis, and balance as your centre of gravity shifts.
The versatile Cushy Puff supports exercises that strengthen the core and enhance proprioception—your body’s sense of position. This is crucial during the third trimester as your body adapts to balance changes.
For example, you can use the Cushy Puff during pelvic tilts to support your lower back, strengthen deep abdominal muscles, and ease lower back pain. Balance exercises with the Cushy Puff also improve proprioception, vital as your body adjusts to your growing bump.
MAINTAINING STABILITY
Using an inflatable exercise ball with the Cushy Puff Pregnancy Pillow can boost stability and core strength. Stability balls are great for engaging core muscles safely during pregnancy. Paired with the Cushy Puff, exercises become more effective, offering extra support and alignment.
For example, sit on the ball while the Cushy Puff supports your back or knees during stretches. This combination engages your core, improves balance, and relieves hip and pelvic tension. These exercises help maintain core strength and prepare your body for labour.
BALANCING COMFORT WITH PHYSICAL PREPAREDNESS
As your due date nears, balancing comfort with physical preparation is key. In the third trimester, your body changes rapidly, requiring support, exercise, and rest.
The Cushy Puff Pregnancy Pillow offers a adjustable support system to relieve pressure on your back, belly, hips, and legs, helping you manage the physical challenges of late pregnancy.
By incorporating the Cushy Puff into your routine for sleep, rest, or exercise, you ensure your body stays well-supported and ready for the journey ahead.
SUPPORTING YOUR BODY THROUGH THE FINAL STRETCH
The third trimester is a time of anticipation and preparation. Though physically demanding, addressing postural shifts, core stability, and balance can help maintain comfort and well-being.
Whether managing lumbar lordosis, muscle fatigue, or balance, the Cushy Puff provides tailored support to keep you comfortable and strong. By prioritising alignment, core stability, and rest—assisted by the Cushy Puff—you can focus on enjoying these precious moments as you prepare for motherhood.