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Nursing cushions, also referred to as feeding or breastfeeding pillows, represent a crucial component of nursing supplies required by new mothers. They serve the purpose of enhancing the convenience and comfort of breastfeeding, particularly alleviating strain on the neck and back that can result from prolonged arm support.

Crafted with this intent in mind, a nursing pillow typically consists of an inflatable or foam cushion that provides a comfortable cradle for the baby during breastfeeding sessions. While a conventional pillow is still necessary for providing additional support and comfort, a quality nursing pillow significantly facilitates the breastfeeding process.

Which Type of Feeding Pillow Is Best?

Various types of nursing pillows are available in the market, each catering to different needs and preferences:

1. U-shaped Pillow: This type is among the most popular nursing pillows. Its “U” shape provides comfort and support during feeding sessions.
2. Boppy Nursing Pillow: The Boppy Original Nursing Pillow is engineered to facilitate a better latch for the baby and offer ergonomic support and back relief during nursing, bottle feeding, and bonding. Its versatile “C” shape accommodates various feeding styles, and its fiber-filled construction with a removable, machine-washable cover ensures easy maintenance. The beltless design simplifies one-handed placement, while the Miracle Middle panel enhances comfort, particularly for postpartum recovery.
3. Adjustable Pillow: Featuring a side zipper for size adjustment, this nursing pillow offers flexibility. Its smaller side cradles the baby’s head during breastfeeding, while the larger side provides support when the baby lies on the mother’s lap.
4. My Brest Friend: Ideal for breastfeeding mothers seeking additional support, this pillow wraps around the waist and securely attaches with velcro. It offers essential arm and belly support, particularly beneficial for new breastfeeding mothers.
5. Twin Z Pillow: Designed for pregnant women and new mothers, the Twin Z Pillow supports both the mother and the babies. Its “Z” shape enables simultaneous nursing of twin babies, ensuring individual space and comfort for both mother and infants without feeling overcrowded.

Read Also: The Best ways to ease back and hip pain during pregnancy

What Is a Nursing Pillow Used for?

In addition to nursing, nursing pillows serve several other purposes:

1. Feeding: Nursing pillows are designed not only for breastfeeding but also for aiding bottle-feeding. They help raise the newborn to the appropriate height for feeding while providing support to the back, shoulders, and arms during breastfeeding sessions.
2. Sleeping: A quality nursing pillow can also serve as a supportive aid for sleeping. By properly supporting the head and neck, it helps maintain spinal alignment and relaxes neck muscles, making it a preferred choice for some individuals over traditional pillows.
3. Tummy Time: Nursing pillows can be utilized as props during tummy time activities. Babies can use the pillow to support themselves while lying on their stomachs, lifting up on their elbows, and engaging with toys. This promotes the development of muscle strength in infants.

How Do You Use a Breastfeeding Pillow?

Here are some guidelines on how to effectively use a nursing pillow:

 

1. Sit Comfortably: Sit in a comfortable position and place the nursing pillow behind your back for support. This helps you maintain an upright posture, easing the strain on your neck, shoulders, and back. If nursing while lying down, position the pillow under your head and upper body to elevate them, aiding in positioning.
2. Position the Pillow Correctly: Lay the nursing pillow on your lap and position your baby on it facing you. During breastfeeding, ensure your baby lies stomach-down on the pillow; while bottle-feeding, they should sit up against the pillow with their back supported.
3. Place the Baby on the Pillow: Ensure your baby is positioned correctly on the nursing pillow to enhance comfort during feeding. Place them at a 45-degree angle, facilitating easier latching.
4. Adjust Baby’s Position: Fine-tune your baby’s position on the pillow to achieve optimal nipple placement. Correct latching allows for a tight seal around the nipple, leading to improved milk flow and transfer efficiency. Adjustments help maintain this optimal position for both you and your baby.

Is It Okay for a Baby to Sleep on a Nursing Pillow?

While nursing pillows are excellent for supporting babies during breastfeeding, they are not intended for use as sleep aids. In fact, using a nursing pillow for sleep can pose risks to infants.

It’s recommended that babies be placed on their backs on a firm surface, free of any pillows or soft bedding, to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This precaution extends beyond cribs, as even nursing pillows have been associated with an increased risk of SIDS.

Despite the limitations for sleep, nursing pillows remain valuable for facilitating bonding between parents and babies during nursing sessions. They promote comfort and enable parents to maintain closeness with their infants while breastfeeding. Selecting the best breastfeeding pillow is crucial, as it can also serve as a supportive aid for propping the baby during tummy time. Investing in a quality product ensures that you obtain a pillow that meets your needs and is safe for your baby.

Feeding twins or two babies using a twin nursing pillow

Breastfeeding pillows tailored for nursing twins typically come in U-shaped or nearly circular designs, often featuring ties or clips to secure them around the waist. This prevents slipping while simultaneously supporting two babies during feeding sessions.

When nursing twins simultaneously with a twin pillow, employing the football hold is often the most convenient method, as the pillows are structured to provide support on both sides. Following the guidelines for the football hold positioning, as described earlier, is recommended when feeding two babies at once.

Furthermore, twin nursing pillows can also serve singletons, providing additional comfort and support for mothers who prefer a larger pillow size during breastfeeding sessions. Their versatility makes them valuable assets for various nursing needs beyond twin feeding scenarios.

Conclusion

Understanding how to use a nursing pillow effectively is paramount for both the comfort of the mother and the well-being of the baby. By following the proper techniques outlined, such as sitting comfortably, positioning the pillow correctly, placing the baby at the appropriate angle, and making necessary adjustments, nursing sessions can become more comfortable and successful.

However, it’s essential to remember that nursing pillows should never be used as sleep aids for infants, as they can pose risks such as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While nursing pillows serve as valuable tools for promoting bonding and facilitating feeding, prioritizing safety guidelines, such as placing babies on their backs in a crib free of pillows or soft bedding, is crucial. Ultimately, choosing a high-quality nursing pillow that suits both the mother and the baby’s needs enhances the nursing experience and strengthens the parent-infant bond.