What is a Nursing Pillow?
A nursing pillow is an item used by breastfeeding mothers to assist in positioning and supporting the baby while nursing. It is shaped as an elongated “U” with a padded cushion in the center.
The cushion has adjustable straps that fasten around the mother’s waist or shoulders. The baby is then cuddled into the comfortable cushion and the mother can easily adjust the baby’s position while nursing.
Nursing pillows can also be used to help support a baby’s head and neck while bottle feeding.
What Is a Nursing Pillow Used for?
A nursing pillow is a specialized pillow designed to help make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding a baby easier and more comfortable for both the baby and the parent.
These pillows are usually made of a soft material, such as memory foam, and they usually have a curved shape that fits around the baby’s body.
This allows the baby to be supported in an elevated position so that the parent can easily feed the baby without having to strain their arms, shoulders, or back.
The pillow also provides a supportive base to enable the baby to latch onto the breast or bottle in the correct position.
This helps to prevent the baby from becoming fussy, which can make feeding more difficult.
Some nursing pillows also feature a pocket in which a parent can store burp cloths, feeding bottles, or other supplies, making them a convenient and useful tool for all parents of newborn babies.
Types of Feeding Pillows
A nursing pillow is a specially designed cushion used to support a breastfeeding mother and her baby during breastfeeding. Nursing pillows come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
Here are the different types of nursing pillows available:
1. Crescent Nursing Pillow
This type of nursing pillow has a curved shape that helps support the baby in a semi-reclined position. It can also be used as a prop for the baby to rest in while lounging in between feedings.
2. Back Support Nursing Pillow
This type of pillow is designed with a flat back and a wider surface area. It helps provide back support and encourages a better nursing position while protecting the mother’s arms and shoulders from fatigue.
3. Multi-Purpose Nursing Pillow
This type of nursing pillow is larger in size and has multiple uses. It can be used during feedings, as a baby lounger, for tummy time, or for sitting.
4. U-Shaped Nursing Pillow
This type of nursing pillow has a U-shape that wraps around the mother’s body, allowing her to comfortably nurse her baby. It also provides extra back support.
5. Inflatable Nursing Pillow
This type of nursing pillow is made of soft, lightweight material and is inflated with a manual or electric pump. It is easy to transport and offers a great alternative to more traditional nursing pillows.
6. Disk Nursing Pillow
This type of nursing pillow is round in shape and designed with an adjustable strap. It offers a secure and comfortable fit for both the mother and the baby during feedings.
How To Use a Breastfeeding Pillow?
1. Place the breastfeeding pillow around your waist, while sitting comfortably.
2. Place the baby on the pillow in the cradle position, making sure that the baby’s head is at the higher end of the pillow.
3. With your other arm, bring the baby close to you so that your baby’s chin is pressed against your breast.
4. Keep your baby’s bottom supported by the pillow and make sure your baby’s shoulders are in line with the nipple.
5. Use your free hand to support the baby’s head and neck.
6. When your baby latches on to the nipple, shift your body a bit to make sure the baby is comfortable.
7. After the feeding, make sure you burp the baby and that their clothing is not too tight.
8. Clean and dry the breastfeeding pillow after each use.
Benefits of Nursing Pillows
1. Comfort and Support
Nursing pillows provide comfortable support for both the baby and the parent during breastfeeding sessions. The pillow helps to keep the baby in the correct nursing position and helps to cushion the baby’s head and body while also supporting the parent’s arms, shoulders, and back.
2. Improved Breastfeeding Positioning
Nursing pillows can help improve the baby’s position during breastfeeding. The pillow’s curved shape acts as a cushion that supports the baby’s neck and back, allowing them to latch onto the breast easier and maintain the correct breastfeeding position.
3. Versatility
Nursing pillows can also be used for other purposes such as propping the baby up for tummy time, feeding the baby in a seated position, or even as a backrest.
4. Portability
They are lightweight and portable, making them easy to take with you while traveling or going to visit family.
5. Safety
Most nursing pillows have been designed with safety in mind. They feature secure straps or buckles to keep the pillow in place and prevent babies from slipping off.
6. Comfort and Relaxation
Nursing pillows provide a comfortable surface for both you and your baby to relax on. The pillow’s soft material helps to reduce the strain on the parent’s body and helps the baby feel secure and relaxed.
Product Recommendation
Beautiful Bundles hosts a variety of nursing pillows from some of the leading brands. A few of them are :
Mothers Nest Nursing Pillow
This pretty Feeding Pillow For newborns is filled with high-quality, cushioned fiber with a 100% cotton cover. For the ultimate support and feeding comfort for mother and baby, the pillow is soft, light, and durable, as well as being non-allergic, moisture, and dust mite resistant.
Ryco – Feeding Cushion With Two Covers
This nursing pillow is Uniquely shaped to make feeding easier and more comfortable. It is Ideal for breast and bottle feeding. It fits all waist sizes. It comes with a removable/washable cover.
Buy the best range of nursing pillows from Beautiful Bundles at affordable prices with exciting cashback.
Frequently Asked Question
Is It Okay for an Infant to Sleep on a Nursing Pillow?
Yes, a nursing pillow can be a safe and comfortable place for a baby to sleep. However, if a baby is able to roll over, it should not be put to sleep on the pillow, as it could be a suffocation hazard. Once a baby can roll, it should always be placed on its back on a firm, flat surface to sleep.
How Long Do You Use a Nursing Pillow?
A nursing pillow can be used as long as you need it. It is most commonly used during the early months of breastfeeding but can be kept around for the entire duration of your nursing experience if desired.
Can Newborns Use a Nursing Pillow?
Yes, newborns can use nursing pillows, as long as the pillow is designed for newborns and is the correct size for the baby. It is recommended that parents purchase a nursing pillow specifically designed for newborns and make sure that the pillow is the correct size for the