by Our Pick
Saatva Classic Plush Soft. From $1,174
365-night trial · Lifetime warranty
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Hip pain during pregnancy affects 70%+ of pregnant women in the second and third trimesters. Primary causes: relaxin hormone loosening pelvic joints, weight redistribution, and side-sleeping pressure. Most resolves with positioning changes, pregnancy pillows, and proper mattress support — no medications needed. Here is the complete guide.
Why Hip Pain Happens in Pregnancy
- Relaxin hormone: Loosens pelvic ligaments to prepare for birth, destabilizing hip joints.
- Weight gain: 25-35 lbs average, shifting center of gravity forward.
- Side sleeping pressure: Recommended for baby blood flow but compresses hip on down side.
- Pubic symphysis dysfunction (SPD): Separation of pelvic joints in 10-30% of pregnancies.
- Round ligament strain: Ligaments supporting the uterus stretch, causing referred hip pain.
- Sciatica: Growing uterus pressing on sciatic nerve.
Sleep Position for Pregnancy Hip Pain
Pregnancy sleep guidelines recommend left-side sleeping (improves blood flow to baby). For hip pain:
- Sleep on left side with knees bent at 90 degrees
- Place a pillow between knees (aligns hips and spine)
- Place a pillow under the belly for support
- Consider a body pillow or C-shape pregnancy pillow for full-body support
- Slight head elevation (adjustable bed) helps with acid reflux + hip comfort
Mattress Recommendations for Pregnancy
- Medium firmness: Not too firm (hip pressure), not too soft (sink/alignment issues).
- Pressure-relieving top layer: Gel memory foam or pillow-top for hip cushioning.
- Dual-coil or hybrid: Core support without fully sinking.
- Cooling properties: Pregnant women run warmer.
- Avoid too-firm all-coil: Excessive hip pressure.
Our pick: Saatva Classic in Plush Soft or Luxury Firm. Dual-coil construction with hand-tufted pillow top cushions hips while maintaining spinal support. 365-night trial allows testing through pregnancy changes.
Our Pick
Saatva Classic Plush Soft. From $1,174
365-night trial · Lifetime warranty
Pregnancy Pillows
- C-shape (25-55" long): Full body support, most popular
- U-shape (60-80" long): Supports both sides simultaneously
- Wedge pillow: Small, targeted belly support
- Body pillow (20" x 54"): Simple between-knees option
Daytime Strategies
- Prenatal yoga
- Warm baths (not hot)
- Maternity support belt
- Walking (improves circulation)
- Physical therapy referral for persistent SPD
When to See Doctor
- Pain interferes with daily function
- Sharp sudden pain
- Pain with weakness or numbness (nerve issue)
- Unable to walk or bear weight
- Pubic symphysis dysfunction suspected
FAQ
Is hip pain normal in pregnancy?
Yes, affects 70%+ of pregnancies. Usually resolves postpartum.
How do you relieve hip pain during pregnancy at night?
Side sleeping with knee pillow + supportive mattress + body pillow. Consider adjustable bed.
What is the best sleeping position for hip pain in pregnancy?
Left side with knee pillow, belly pillow, and head pillow. Left side improves baby blood flow.
Does an adjustable bed help pregnancy hip pain?
Yes — slight head elevation reduces acid reflux and weight pressure on hips.
Related reading: Pregnancy Pillow Guide | Best Sleep Position for Back Pain | Best Mattress for Back Pain | Best Pillow for Side Sleepers
Sources & further reading
We reference authoritative health and sleep-science resources to support claims on this page:
- Mayo Clinic - Hip pain causes & diagnosis
- Cleveland Clinic - Hip bursitis
- AAOS OrthoInfo - Hip conditions
Related buying tips
Before making a purchase in this category, consider these essentials we recommend checking:
- Trial period — 100 nights minimum, 365 nights ideal for a major mattress or bedding purchase.
- Warranty — 10 years or longer for mattresses; 1-3 years for most bedding accessories.
- Return policy — ensure free returns are included, not store credit only.
- Certifications — CertiPUR-US for foam (no harmful chemicals), GOLS/GOTS for organic latex and cotton, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 for fabrics.
- Shipping — check if white-glove setup and old-mattress removal are included or cost extra.
For our complete shopping framework, see our 2026 best mattress buying guide.