Ever heard of breastfeeding pillows? As a first-time mom, you’ve probably had. They were marketed as an essential that could make feeding time more comfortable. But do you still wonder how do you use a breastfeeding pillow the right way? It is more than just a cushion; a breastfeeding pillow is a versatile supportive tool that helps position your back and your baby. At the correct height and angle for feeding your baby can thrive but still giving you that comforting support no matter how long a feeding could take. Additionally, it lessens the strain on your back, neck and arms.
In our guide, we’ll talk about how to choose the right pillow for you, what feeding positions you can use it for, and even learn about its other uses, more than just nursing.
What Is a Breastfeeding Pillow and Why Use One?
Breastfeeding pillows are a specially made pillows that encircles your waist or in front of you to provide support to your baby during the feeding process. Unlike a normal pillow, they are designed to hug your body and offer perfect height for your baby to latch up comfortably.
So, what are the best advantages of a breastfeeding pillow?
It offers less strain, this pillow provides support so you don’t have to hunch up too much to get accustomed to your baby; too much hunching forward causes shoulder and back pain.
It is versatile, aside from breastfeeding, these pillows can also serve as support for the baby during feeding time, tummy time or assisting the baby to sit upright and many more.
It supports correct positioning. A good breastfeeding pillow provides the right height to keep your breast and baby at a level that promotes a good latch.
For our new mothers who are still getting used to feeding timings, the right pillow can be a world of difference, it can easily turn the prior exhausting feeding into an easier relaxing bonding time with your newborn.
Choosing the Right Pillow for Your Body and Baby
There are lots of breastfeeding pillows available in the market but not all of them are created the same. The one that would suit you best will be based on how comfortable it makes you feel, your baby’s size, your body shape, and how you position your baby during feeding times.
To help you out here are some things you’d like to consider when you’re choosing a pillow:
The firmness and shape of the pillow. A firmer pillow can offer more solid support for your back and your baby, while a softer pillow will mostly conform to your body.
Its adjustability is also crucial. There are pillows that come with interchangeable and adjustable straps with heights that can be customized depending on how high or low you want your baby to lie.
The cover material for your pillow should be washable so it’s easier to keep it clean. Selecting the removable and washable cover ones can facilitate easier cleaning.
The fit of the feeding pillow to your body. Ensure that it fits super well around your waist and doesn’t slide or have gaps.
It is always wise to try on a few before settling on one. After all, it is for you and your child’s comfort, and what works for one mom might or might not work for another.
Using the Pillow for Cross-Cradle and Cradle Positions
Two most common positions where breastfeeding could be of best support are the cross-cradle and the cradle positions.
Cradle Hold
- wrap the pillow around your waist
- Place your baby’s head in the crook of your arm, facing your breast.
- Rest your arm and your baby on the pillow so their head is level with your nipple.
Cross-Cradle - Position the pillow the same way.
- Hold your baby with the opposite arm from the breast you’re feeding them from.
- Use your free hand to guide your baby’s head for latching.
In this way, the pillow supports your baby’s weight, allowing your arms to relax and helping you keep a consistent feeding posture.
Adjusting the Pillow to Reduce Back, Neck, and Arm Strain
One of the most frequent errors of new breastfeeding mothers is leaning down to the baby’s level rather than bringing the baby up to your level of the breast. Over time, back pain and stiffness of your back, neck, and shoulders may develop.
With a breastfeeding pillow, you can:
- Sit comfortably in a chair with proper back support.
- Position extra cushion or towels beneath the pillow if you require additional height
- Have your feet flat on the floor or use a footrest for improved posture.
- Position the pillow high enough to have your baby at nipple height
Proper use of a breastfeeding pillow not only provides additional comfort with feeding but also facilitates improved latching of your newborn.
Tips for Safe and Comfortable Feeding Sessions
Other than getting a comfortable breastfeeding pillow, there are few changes you can still make to enhance your feeding session:
- Check your latch, ensure your baby’s mouth encircles your nipple and some of the areola.
- Switch sides, alternate breasts during feeding, and adjust the pillow accordingly.
- Drink plenty of water, have a glass at hand, particularly for longer feeds.
- Take mini breaks. If your arms get tired, take a minute to relax and adjust your shoulders.
Breastfeeding pillows are for your help and not to replace proper positioning, so always make sure your baby is latching well and breathing comfortably.
Other Useful Applications of the Pillow Aside from Breastfeeding
Breast pillows are specifically to support breastfeeding, yet there are other useful applications for them. It may include:
- Tummy time: Set your baby’s back on the pillow to build up their neck and shoulder muscles.
- Bottle-feeding: It gives them the same ergonomic advantage as parents and babies
- Postpartum support: Sit with it at your back for additional comfort.
- Sitting down: Have your baby supported while sitting as they master balance.
- These are just some of the additional uses which make a nursing pillow worth the investment which continues to increase with your baby.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wondered, how do you use a breastfeeding pillow, the answer is easy: it’s comfort, positioning and flexibility. From getting a good latch to taking pressure off your body, this device can make feeding time a more enjoyable bonding time for you and your baby.
By selecting a pillow that best suits you, discovering how to position it when using it in varied feeding positions, and adjusting it for your comfort, you’re setting a better climate for successful breastfeeding. Moreover, its versatility enables you to use it as support for tummy times, bottle feeding and also as a sitting support. Your breastfeeding pillow will still be of use long after newborn days are over.
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