When it comes to nursing, the most common things that we need (and people often buy) are breast pads, nursing covers, nursing bras, breast pumps, storage bags, and nipple cream. But, have you thought of having a nursing pillow?
Similar to a pregnancy pillow, not many know the importance and benefits of using a nursing pillow when you need to breastfeed your little one.
For experienced mothers, you’d have known by now how breastfeeding is no walk in the park. The simple act of feeding our little one can turn into an unpleasant moment.
Some of us may experience a bad latch, cracked nipples, breast engorgement, inadequate supply, back pain, bad posture, and many more.
Oh, wait, no! We’re not trying to scare you away from breastfeeding. We admit that it may be tough—especially for first-time mothers—but, do know that help is always near!
Let say back pain is what has been troubling you even before your pregnancy, this is when a nursing pillow comes in handy.
Most nursing mamas find that having a nursing pillow is far more helpful with the frequent nursing sessions than a regular pillow or having nothing at all!
Below are some of the benefits of using a nursing pillow throughout your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey:
Benefits of Nursing Pillows
1. Supports your back
Nursing pillow is good for back support during the last trimester of pregnancy. You just have to place it backwards so that it rests on your back rather than your stomach when you’re sitting.
The shape and size of the pillow make it the perfect support for your sore lower back muscles.
2. Reduces body pain
Aching back and neck are two of the common muscle sores when you breastfeed. Your baby needs to be brought up to your chest and close to your breasts, so your baby can latch properly.
A nursing pillow that’s designed with latches that can fasten to your body helps to reduce the pain because you don’t have to slouch down or bend your body to breastfeed the baby.
3. Improves baby position
If a safe baby pillow helps your baby sleep comfortably through the night, a feeding pillow that’s often designed with a raised platform for the baby’s head, helps in proper latching.
4. Provides relief from reflux
Acid reflux occurs when the milk comes up to your baby’s oesophagus—causing pain, spitting up, and vomiting.
Proper propping helps to improve the baby’s position and thus, it helps to lessen reflux, prevents colic acid, and other gastrointestinal problems.
5. Offers versatility
Nursing pillows can be used for many other purposes, such as tummy time and also, to help your baby sit up!
Spending time each day on his tummy helps to develop his muscles, strengthen his neck, and prevent flat head syndrome.
When your baby is between 4 to 6 months of age, use the nursing pillow as a support to teach your baby the joy of sitting up by placing it around him legs to keep him safe.
6. Supports bottle-feeding
Who says the father can’t assist with raising the kids? For fathers who need to bottle-feed their infants, a nursing pillow can be a great support.
Bottle-feeding can strain your arms and neck while holding it to feed your little one. You can simply lay him on the nursing pillow but make sure to keep your eyes on him throughout the feeding session!
Now that you know all the good reasons to own a nursing pillow, choosing the best one is important as well!
How to Choose the Best Nursing Pillow?
Size and Shape
No matter how you choose to feed your little one, you need to get a nursing pillow that fits you comfortably.
Ideally, the one that’s not too loose or too little, and the baby’s torso and head should be at the same height as the nipple of your breast, so it’ll be easier for him to latch.
A nursing pillow also comes in various shapes and sizes; each with its own benefits.
An ‘O’ shape pillow is ideal for back support as it wraps around our midsection, a ‘C’-shaped one hugs the front of our body, and a crescent-shaped pillow supports the baby’s head.
Portability
Smaller and portable models are perfect for on-the-go-mummies.
Washability
Babies are messy – they spit up, unlatched unexpectedly, and spill milk during feeding. Consider buying a nursing pillow that’s easy to clean and can be both machine-washed and dried.
Material
Our babies are born with delicate and sensitive skin, so it’s ideal for you to consider the right material as well. It’s advisable for you to choose a nursing pillow that’s made from cotton and avoid synthetic material like polyester.
To make it easy for you, we’d like to introduce one nursing pillow that has it all:
Babylove Premium Nursing Pillow
Babylove Premium Nursing Pillow is the ultimate multitasker for all mothers. It provides comfort during nursing, supports your body throughout pregnancy and post-delivery, as well as snuggles your baby nicely.
The casing is made from 100% natural premium cotton that’s non-toxic. Thus, it’ll not cause any skin allergy to both mother and baby.
The filling is made from 100% AA grade virgin polyester fibre, so you can simply machine-wash it after every use, without worrying it’ll be out of shape.
The best part is, it comes with a PVC bag, which makes it convenient to bring along anywhere, as well as maintain its hygiene.
Babylove Premium Nursing Pillow comes in more than 10 (adorable!) designs that you can choose from.
With so many different uses, we bet this nursing pillow will soon become one of your favourite and useful baby items. To get the most out of your nursing pillow, visit Babylove’s Official Website here.