Pillow

I've been reading on some of the posts about some of you using a "wedge" pillow. How big of a wedge and where do you put it. Since I have never gone through any major surgeries, I'm feeling so stupid about things. If someone could let me know what helped them, I would be grateful.

Hi Coleen,

I didn't personally use a wedge pillow to lay on, but I did find a body pillow helpful for me. I was able to snuggle on it while laying on my side.

I think a lot of women like wedge pillows to elevate their heads while resting. Many of us use a lot of pillows to prop up on and aid in support during our recoveries. It's entirely up to you, what types of pillows you may prefer, and whatever makes you the most comfortable.

Most importantly, don't ever feel stupid about things. We are all new to this. There is no such thing as a stupid question.

s, Deb

I don't know what a wedge pillow is but I did use a small pillow to support my stomach muscles when trying to sit up or get up. I had a TAH and it was not pleasant trying to get up without having pressure on my incision. I also used the pillow when I needed to sneeze, cough or laugh.

Hope this helps. Good luck to you!

I have a wedge pillow and it is one of the best things we bought!
It's a wedge of pie, or triangular shaped pillow that allows your head to be elevated while in bed. Sort of like cranking up the head of your bed like the electric beds do.
I found this pillow a great help to me because I am not comfortable lying flat in bed and needed that extra support behind my back that the regular bed pillows don't allow..they always fall flat and scrunch up on me..the wedge doesn't do this.
Anything to make us more comfortable, right?
good luck!!

I bought a wedge pillow and it has helped me out tremendously. The only way that I can sleep is flat on my back. I used this pillow at the hospital & every night since I've been home. I prop it up underneath my back so that I can lie on my left side (so the gas can pass easier). It has made it more comfortable for me to lie on my side. The gas pains are getting much easier for me to handle (this was one of my biggest worries thru pre-SX).

I bought mine @Wal*Mart for $10. I love it. It's a child's pillow w/a monkey on it. But who cares about that as long as it works.

I love my Monkey Pillow

Hanks, is it one of those pillows with the little arms? Is that a wedge pillow? I am going to have to send hubby out to get me one!

Hanks & Bluegoose - How big are your pillows? I was trying to decide between a body pillow and a smaller pillow. Thanks so much for all of your replies and suggestions.

Hi

I just used lots and lots of small pillows that I could move around and put where I needed them the most depending on my position. But I didn't do too much sitting up in bed, I spent my days on the sofa (it was easier for me to get up).

S,
Kay

honeys, It is not the pillow with the little arms on it.

equinut & honeys, It is a pillow shaped like a pizza slice (on each end), or like the wedge you would stick under a door (only wider) to hold it open. Mine is about 20" long, the deepest part of the wedge is about 10 to 12" and then it narrows down to a about an inch at the the point of the triangle. /_____/} I was trying to draw one there but I can't. Well hope that description might help somewhat.

That helps bunches!!! I'll probably use a combination of a wedge and lots of smaller pillows. I'm fairly "fluffy" and I know that getting up is going to be a chore. I've been thinking my recliner is going to be my biggest friend. I can see it all now - me surrounded by pillows with my big 75lb white shepard plunked right on top of me and the little dog right between my legs!

Thanks again for all of your help everyone!