Breastfeeding pillows are specially made to help breastfeeding mothers. There are many models with different bills available, but all are designed to help women support the baby in the correct position while feeding. Learn to use one to make sure your baby is in the correct posture and to relieve pressure on your spine.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Choose a Nursing Pillow
Step 1. Evaluate how long you will need to breastfeed
Such a pillow is somewhat of a long-term investment. If you enjoy using it and find it useful for you and the baby, you can use it until you have finished breastfeeding; remember this detail when making your choice.
- Some mothers breastfeed only for 3-4 months; in that case, you don't have to worry about the length and size of the pillow. A baby of this age should be able to rest comfortably on most models without too much difficulty.
- Some women decide to extend the breastfeeding period. If you plan on giving your baby milk for a couple of years instead of a couple of months, choose a larger pillow that can support an older baby. However, as the baby grows, he also acquires better control of motor functions and is able to support his head alone; the pillow may not be needed to support a child over one year of age.
Step 2. Evaluate the shape and fit
Baby's size isn't the only factor you need to consider when choosing a nursing pillow; you also need to take into account your build and silhouette, to make sure it fits your body well.
- Many pillows are made to wrap around the mother's torso to support the baby's head and neck while feeding. Try to choose a model that fits the central area of your torso immediately after giving birth. To evaluate the size you need, imagine your body size in the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy.
- Breastfeeding pillows are available in various shapes: "C", "O" or crescent-shaped. The "C" models are generally those considered "universal" and adapt well to most physical conformations, while ensuring adequate support for the mother's arm.
- The "O" pillows completely envelop the torso and are very useful for mothers who need more support after pregnancy, due to some complication or a caesarean section.
- The half-moon models hug the side of the bust. They are not very suitable for mothers of small build, because the sides could fall on the back of the chair, on the sofa or on the surface on which you sit. However, some cushions of this type are adjustable and can be modified to fit the mother's measurements.
Step 3. Determine if you want straps or not
This is a very popular add-on, consisting of a series of straps equipped with buckles that allow you to hold the pillow closer to the body.
- The main advantage of the straps is that they hold the pillow securely in place and the feeding can continue with few interruptions. You can also use them to keep the baby close to your body.
- The major disadvantage is the difficulty of putting on and taking off the buckles themselves. Breastfeeding is an unpredictable moment; the baby may have problems, for example he may regurgitate. You may need to turn your attention to other babies or pets, which means you need to stop feeding for a moment. the presence of the straps could therefore delay your reactions in these situations.
Step 4. Make sure it is easy to clean
Breastfeeding pillows get dirty quickly; infants vomit or have other "accidents" that stain surfaces. Buy a model that is easy to wash.
- Those that respect this feature have a removable cover, which is machine washable and can be put in the dryer.
- Some cushions have foam pads that can be hand washed and then hung out to dry.
- The materials of which the cushions are made also play an important role in the ease of cleaning. Sometimes biological fabrics are more difficult to wash; however, if you prefer padding and fabrics that have not been treated with pesticides, be aware that it takes some time to wash them by hand.
Method 2 of 3: Breastfeed with a Feeding Pillow
Step 1. Decide how to sit during the feed
The way you use the pillow depends on the posture you assume for breastfeeding; choose the position that provides maximum comfort for you and your baby.
- Some women breastfeed while lying down. You can cradle the baby by placing it sideways on your chest or abdomen to feed it; her body remains fully supported by yours and the pillow may not be necessary if you prefer to hold this position.
- If you are breastfeeding sitting on the sofa or in a chair with the baby on your lap, the pillow is very useful because it supports the baby's head and neck while feeding.
- Some women place the baby under their arm to support them laterally while they eat; in this situation it is necessary to use some model of pillow, for example the half-moon ones are particularly suitable.
Step 2. Use the pillow during feedings
Whenever you sit down to breastfeed, no matter what position you assume and which pillow model you have purchased, always give priority to your safety and that of the baby.
- Place the pillow along your arm, on your lap, or to the side of your body in the area where the baby sits during the feed.
- Gently take the baby and put his feet under your arm, so that they are facing your back; his belly must be towards your body.
- Place the baby on the nursing pillow, as its purpose is to support some of the baby's weight for you.
- Check that the baby is lying on its side with the belly towards you; incorrect posture could cause gastric reflux or difficulty swallowing.
Step 3. Try using the pillow when bottle feeding
If you are weaning the baby or your partner is also taking care of the feedings, the pillow can also be used safely with a bottle.
- Find a quiet place to sit, place the pillow on your lap or side of your body, and rest on the arm you use to support the baby's head.
- When bottle feeding, your baby should be in a slightly tilted position with the head pointing a little upward.
- While your arm is needed to keep the baby from wiggling too much, the pillow still provides some help and supports some of the baby's weight for you.
Method 3 of 3: Find Other Uses
Step 1. Use the nursing pillow during pregnancy
If you bought one before your baby was born, you can use it to find some relief from the pain and discomfort typical of gestation.
- By placing it between your knees when you sleep, you give some support to the lumbar portion of the back; you can also rest it behind you to help you maintain a lateral position while sleeping.
- If you have heartburn due to pregnancy, you can use it as an extra pillow to keep your head elevated when in bed.
Step 2. Use it when you leave the baby on the floor on his stomach
The baby should be left prone on the floor for a few minutes a day to strengthen the neck muscles and teach him to push, roll, crawl and stand. You can then use the nursing pillow to enhance this "workout".
- Most babies sleep on their backs, as recommended by all pediatric clinics, because this posture prevents sudden infant death syndrome. Since infants spend a lot of time on their backs, time spent lying on their back is quite stressful and some babies may even resist.
- The nursing pillow makes the experience more enjoyable. Lifting the baby with the pillow allows him to have a new perspective and to look at a larger area of the room. It can also distract him from lying on his stomach, preventing him from crying or stressing.
- Remember not to use the nursing pillow for this purpose before the baby is 3-4 months of age, as the neck muscles are not yet strong enough to perform this exercise safely.
Step 3. Be aware that the pillow is not suitable for all moms
It could be a great tool, but it's not universal.
- Sometimes, it may prevent the baby from latching onto the nipple properly; some babies do not begin to breastfeed and prefer to be supported by their mother, consequently the pillow makes them nervous or hinders breastfeeding.
- It is a bulky object, difficult to transport. Some mothers claim that they have to lie down on it and that they suffer from back pain for this very reason.
- Remember that the nursing pillow is designed to improve comfort during feedings. Some mothers recognize that it is useful for both them and the newborn, but if it becomes a source of discomfort, know that it is not an indispensable tool; the old breastfeeding technique is more than good if you don't benefit from the pillow.
Advice
- Relax your arm muscles when you are pillow-feeding to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome.
- If your pillow doesn't have a removable cover, you can use a blanket to protect it from stains.
