One thing a new mom needs to be successful for breastfeeding is to be comfortable. A nursing pillow is a device that is designed to help both mom and baby achieve comfort with nursing, making other nursing challenges a little easier! Breastfeeding baby in a position that strains mom's body can cause migraines, neck, shoulder or back strain and sore nipples due to improper latch on. Using a nursing pillow can achieve a position that is healthful, promotes good posture and will eliminate some, if not all, of the aches and pains of improper positioning while breastfeeding.
Many moms continue to use their nursing pillows after the need to use them for feeding is gone. Propping baby up in a sitting position will help with falls as they're learning this new skill; of course, never leave baby unattended in this position.
What to Look for
There are many different designs and sizes for nursing pillows on the market. Most common is the "C" shaped nursing pillow, designed to go around a new mom's waist to help position baby so that proper latch on can be achieved and mom can maintain good posture. "C" shaped nursing pillows can be found in pillow and inflatable forms--good for home and on the go. Other designs are also available, a three-dimensional triangle and nursing pillows for multiples are other options.
When looking for a nursing pillow, you'll want to look for one that is easy to clean. If your nursing pillow is cloth, be sure that the outer cover can easily be removed and washed. Inflatable nursing pillow versions can come with or without their own pumps, guarantees for leaking and cloth covers.
Common Pitfalls
You'll want to make sure that any nursing pillow you buy fits both you and baby. If the nursing pillow is not big enough, the benefits the pillow can provide by improving support and encouraging good posture for mom will be lost. Also, you may need more support than just a nursing pillow to nurse in comfort. Putting pillows behind your back, supporting your elbows and adding a stool under your feet can make a world of difference.
For new moms of premature babies, or babies that are smaller in size, a nursing pillow will likely not be enough support. Safely adding extra pillows or support devices is something you'll want to discuss with a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider before you go ahead.
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