A nursing pillow is an excellent aid for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your baby. It allows both mum and baby to remain in a more comfortable position and reduces the risk of the baby latching incorrectly onto the breast, especially in the early days.
In what positions is the nursing pillow used? Continue reading.
5 reasons for breastfeeding with a nursing pillow
Breastfeeding can have its challenges, especially in the early days. Mum and baby must find what works for them. The baby must learn to latch correctly, and the mum must find a comfortable position that doesn't tire out her back and arms.
In both cases, the mum risks unpleasant back and breast pain, that can turn breastfeeding into a misery!
Using a nursing pillow can help you through this tricky stage and for as long as you are breastfeeding. It has the following advantages:
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The baby is more comfortable
A nursing pillow is soft enough for the baby to be comfortable, but not too soft for the baby to sink into. -
It reduced the risk of positional plagiocephaly
Babies are breastfed for many hours each day. Mum and dad's arm is too hard for their little heads that are still soft and malleable. This could contribute to the onset of positional plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome. -
It takes the baby's weight off the mum
A nursing pillow takes the weight off the mum's arm, shoulders and neck, and makes her more comfortable. It is particularly useful after a caesarean section, as it reduces the weight on the belly. -
It helps stay in the correct position
Staying in the correct position during breastfeeding helps the baby latch correctly and prevents pain and complications. -
The multifunctional nursing pillow
Koala Hug Baby is not just a simple feeding pillow, but a 5-in-1 breastfeeding cushion which accompanies your baby’s development every step of the way: post-feed relaxation, as a tummy time pillow and whilst learning to sit up.
How do we use a nursing pillow?
Wrap the pillow around your waist and place the baby on it while you breastfeed. This way, the pillow will carry some of the weight for you and you won't have to strain your back and arms.
The baby should be lying on his side with his belly facing you. It is important to hold the right position to avoid gastric reflux or difficulties swallowing.
The nursing pillow for bottle-feeding
The pillow isn't just for breastfeeding, it is also really useful for bottle-feeding. This means that it is also comfortable for the baby's dad and whoever is taking care of him.
When bottle-feeding, the baby must be in a slightly raised position with his head facing upwards. Here, you need to support the baby's head on your arm, but the pillow still helps support the baby’s weight.
The Best Positions for Breastfeeding with a Nursing Pillow
The best positions for breastfeeding with a nursing pillow are the cradle and the rugby hold. Let's explore them in detail.
The cradle position
In the cradle position, the baby is lying down horizontally on the nursing pillow, and is therefore at the same height as the mother's breast and they are facing each other's tummies.
The pillow is wrapped around the mother's waist, thereby reducing the baby's weight on her back and arms, and also providing relief for her shoulders and neck. The baby will be in the right position for latching on.
The rugby position
The pillow is placed around the mother's belly, the baby is laid on top of the pillow on his side, just like carrying a rugby ball. His body is horizontal, but his belly is in contact with his mum's side. His feet are positioned in the direction of his mum's back.
This position is particularly comfortable for mothers who have undergone a caesarean section, for those with large breasts and for breastfeeding twins at the same time.
Does the nursing pillow have other uses?
Not all nursing pillows are the same. Koala Hugs is a multifunctional 8-in-1 nursing pillow, a mother's greatest ally in pregnancy and during the baby's first year.
Breastfeeding is just one of its functions! When the baby is a few months old, it can be used for Tummy Time and for when the baby is beginning to crawl.
During pregnancy, when sleeping well becomes more difficult yet more important than ever, it helps you to stay in the correct position during the night.
Using a nursing pillow is recommended by paediatricians and obstetricians from the very first days, because it really improves the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. With Koala Hugs, you'll have a faithful companion not just once the little one is born, but also during pregnancy.
