Pregnancy is just part of the story; it serves as a training ground for motherhood. Breastfeeding can be one of the most difficult things you will have after your delivery. Although some mothers are lucky enough to have an easy time breastfeeding, many others struggle. Breastfeeding can be difficult for both you and your baby until you and your baby are in harmony. This can take 4-6 weeks, and a feeding pillow can make the process easier.

What Is a Nursing Pillow and Why Do I Need One?

A feeding pillow (also known as a nursing pillow) is an ergonomically crafted tool that aids in the breastfeeding process.

What Is the Best Way to Use a Nursing Pillow?

Step 1: If you have a nursing pillow with a clasp, insert it sideways to make it easier to fasten the clasp.

Step 2: Lift it to the level of your breast so the baby doesn’t have to try to hold on to the nipple.

Step 3: If you think it would make it easier for the baby to eat, you should recline a little to the back.

Step 4: Due to the weight of the infant, a nursing pillow can sink slightly. If your baby is having trouble latching onto your nipple because of the sinking, put normal pillows between the pillow and your thighs.

Step 5: Use your free hands to help swaddle or move the baby’s head for a comfortable latch.

The Advantages of a Nursing Pillow

Breastfeeding while sitting: Many mothers tend to breastfeed their children while sitting. It provides the baby with a strong latching support system and convenient access to the nipple.

Reduced Body Pain: One of the side effects of the breastfeeding learning curve is an aching back and neck. During feeding time, you must carry your baby up to your chest, which triggers this. Slouching or unnecessary bending is no longer appropriate when using a nursing pillow.

A Baby Feeding Pillow Has an Advantage Over Regular Pillows: A baby feeding pillow also has latches to help secure it to your body. Some have pockets, which can be handy if you’re breastfeeding and have limited mobility.

Improved Baby Position: The majority of nursing pillows have an elevated platform for the baby’s head. This not only aids proper latching but also helps to minimise reflux.

Multipurpose: A nursing pillow can be used for both tummy time and propping up your child.

Dads Should Use It: Who says men can’t assist in child-rearing? A breastfeeding pillow can be a great comfort for dads who want to bottle feed their kids.

Usage During Pregnancy: These pillows are flexible enough to be used as pregnancy pillows before the baby is even born.

Are There Any Negative Effects of Using a Nursing Pillow?

Improper use of a nursing pillow may result in poor latching because the baby sinks into the pillow and finds it difficult to reach the nipple.

Bulky: Moms who are constantly on the go can find it difficult to carry the pillow around with them.

Nursing pillows come in a range of sizes to fit women of various body types. Due to the lack of a standard scale, deciding which is a good match for the mother can be difficult.

Buying a Nursing Pillow: Some Points to Consider

Size: Nursing pillows, like clothing, should be chosen to suit you comfortably. They can slip if they are too loose, making it difficult for the baby to latch. However, if the pillow is too thin, it may leave space between the thighs and the pillow, and the baby’s weight may cause it to fall.

They come in a range of shapes and sizes, each with its own set of advantages. An ‘O’ shaped pillow, for example, is good for back support, while a crescent-shaped pillow is good for baby head support. Small babies benefit from firm pillows because they sink less, while larger babies need soft pillows for more leg space.

Portability: Mommies on the go may not want to carry a large pillow around with them. If you’re on the go, the smaller, portable models may be more convenient.

Stain resistance: Babies are messy, and a pillow that is difficult to wash can leave stains. Consider buying only those that are simple to clean.

Fabric composition: Because infants’ skin is sensitive, it’s best to avoid synthetic materials like polyester, which can cause inflammation and rashes. Cotton may be used as a safe substitute. Pillows that are flame-retardant and wrinkle-free should also be avoided (they contain formaldehyde and may be carcinogenic).

A Few Security Measures

Because of the possibility of cerebral asphyxia, a breastfeeding pillow necessitates constant monitoring on your part. This suggests that there is a lack of oxygen in the brain, resulting in death. When a baby is face down and unable to recover from this dangerous position, this occurs. Nursing pillows should be removed from the baby’s crib as a precaution.

The feeding pillow is intended to improve breastfeeding by providing structural support and freeing the nursing mother’s side. You should physically test out a feeding pillow before purchasing one and there is one for every body type.