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When it comes to breastfeeding in the first few newborn days, it can feel like there are a million moving parts to getting your baby to the breast with a “perfect” latch and breastfeeding successfully. With so much going on, it can be easy to miss recommended breastfeeding techniques and leave mom with not only sore nipples, but also back or neck pain. Let’s take the part where mom’s back is killing her while breastfeeding out of the equation by bringing in a nursing pillow. Nursing pillows are excellent tools for placing your little one in the ideal breastfeeding position.
What is a nursing pillow?
Nursing pillows are breastfeeding aids that support the baby and help make breastfeeding as comfortable as possible for the mother. With the nursing pillow, the mother can help put the baby in an ideal position for successful breastfeeding.1 Most often, a nursing pillow is placed in front of the mother’s stomach and wrapped around her slightly above the hips. Nursing pillows generally have a C or U shape and are made of foam. Many nursing pillows come in different shapes, sizes and colors. Two of the most common brands are Boppy And My Brest friend.
What is a nursing pillow used for?
Nursing pillows are designed to help your baby receive optimal support Breastfeeding positionto help mother and baby breastfeed comfortably with optimal support. Breastfeeding mothers often complain of back or neck pain. This is usually due to the mother moving her body to the baby’s height to latch and feed. Nursing pillows allow the mother to position the baby in a more supported and higher position, allowing her to pull her baby closer to her.
This support allows the mother to have a better position in which to work with a good latch on the baby and helps prevent the mother from bending forward and causing strain on her back and neck area. When breastfeeding is comfortable for both the baby and the mother, it is easier to achieve breastfeeding goals and have a successful breastfeeding journey.1
How to use a Boppy pillow
The Boppy pillow has a simple, user-friendly design. For breastfeeding my two daughters, I chose the Original Support nursing pillow from Boppy. I found the Boppy to be easy to use and gave me the perfect support so I could breastfeed comfortably. Although colors and design weren’t at the top of my priority list when looking for the ideal nursing pillow, it was nice to see the wide range of prints and colors. Because of the size of the Boppy, I was able to easily take this nursing pillow with me wherever I went.
How to use the Boppy pillow:
- Find a comfortable sitting position.
- Place the opening of the pillow around your waist or side, depending on where you need support for your preferred breastfeeding position.
- You are now ready to feed your baby.
How to use a My Brest Friend pillow
Another commonly recommended nursing pillow is this My Brest Friend pillow. This nursing pillow provides a backrest that supports the mother’s back and neck and promotes good posture. It also features a wraparound design to help maintain nursing position while breastfeeding, a large “firm front cushion” for baby to rest on while feeding, and even an armrest for mom.
How to use the My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow:
- Find a comfortable sitting position.
- Place the pillow around your waist with the backrest behind you.
- For breastfeeding, move the pillow to the desired height.
- Use the clasp to close and secure the pillow.
- Make sure the pillow fits closely to your body and is comfortable.
- Place your baby on the pillow and you can start breastfeeding.
Benefits of a nursing pillow
Nursing pillows allow the baby to be positioned higher, giving him a better opportunity to latch on and supporting the mother’s back and neck by adjusting the baby so that he does not have to bend over or bend over.1
One published study specifically examined the impact of nursing pillows on maternal fatigue. The result showed that mothers who used pillows while breastfeeding were less tired. They attribute this to babies being in a position where they are more motivated to feed and can feed more successfully. A good latch position leads to fewer breastfeeding complications such as nipple pain, swellingAnd mastitis.2
Another advantage of nursing pillows is the comfort factor. While bed pillows or rolled blankets can be helpful, nursing pillows provide comfort by helping the mother place her baby in a comfortable position with little effort before each feeding.
Are there other ways you can use your nursing pillow?
You should only use nursing pillows for breastfeeding or bottle feeding. You should never place or support your infants on a nursing pillow and leave them alone, otherwise there is a risk of them rolling into a position where something could prevent them from breathing. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has acknowledged that nursing pillows can pose a safety risk to infants if used improperly and has even called for new regulations for the design and marketing of nursing support pillows.3
What you should consider when buying nursing pillows
When it comes to choosing the products you need for your baby, including the nursing pillow, it can quickly become overwhelming. I always recommend doing careful product research. Check out all the details to find out which product best suits your needs and expectations.
If possible, try out different nursing pillows before purchasing one. If you have a friend who has a Boppy pillow, a My Brest Friend pillow, or another nursing pillow, ask to borrow it to find out which one is best for you and your little one. Once your baby is born and you can try it out, you can find out which model you feel most comfortable with and make an informed purchase. Unfortunately, there is no universal formula as to which nursing pillow is best. Each person has a different preference for what is most comfortable and supportive for their needs. There are also many Nursing pillow for tandem feeding twins!
Moms, we want you to achieve your breastfeeding goals while feeling as comfortable as possible. Nursing pillows provide support, comfort and convenience when it comes to placing yourself and your baby in a nursing position that prepares you for a successful nursing session. As always, if you have any concerns or questions during your breastfeeding journey, reach out to your breastfeeding team or healthcare provider. You are never alone!
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