Pregnancy pillows are amazing for when your baby bump causes you an uncomfortable night's sleep. But did you know your pregnancy pillow can be used even after your pregnancy? Having a breastfeeding pillow can be really beneficial when you need something to support you whilst you feed your baby.

In this guide, we’ll look at how you can use your pregnancy pillow to help with breastfeeding and offer insight into how you can comfortably feed your baby in the right position.

Why should I use a pregnancy pillow for breastfeeding?

One of the biggest things on a new mum's mind after giving birth is being able to feed their baby in order to give them the nutrition they require to grow into a healthy and happy toddler.

There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to successfully breastfeeding your baby, including how to position yourself. You need to make sure you’re in a comfortable position during feeding to ensure you and your baby have the right support.

Supportive pillows can be the answer to several of the struggles new mums might be facing when trying to breastfeed. Some major advantages of using a maternity pillow for breastfeeding include:

• Supports your arms, back, and shoulders
• Keeps you in a stable and comfortable resting position
• Supports the baby's head and body during breastfeeding, so you have your hands somewhat free while the baby is still secure
• Supports the baby's weight, so you don't have to carry them all by yourself
• Helps the baby to get their head in the right position
• The slight incline of the pillow can prevent your baby from painful acid reflux

How to use pregnancy pillows as a breastfeeding pillow

There are several ways you can use a pregnancy pillow while breastfeeding your baby. These all depend on the 4 major breastfeeding positions:

1. Side-line or side-lying
   If you choose to nurse your baby while lying on your back or side, you can use the breastfeeding pillow as back support. If you are still wanting to lie slightly upright or cradle your baby while lying on your side, you can tuck the pillow behind you and the baby, supporting both you and your baby’s head. The pillow will look something like a rainbow shape above both of you.
2. Cradle-hold
   The nursing pillow will be most useful in this position as you will find yourself sitting upright on a chair, rocking chair, bed or sofa and can have the pillow hugging you. It supports your back and arms while simultaneously being able to rest your baby's weight on the pillow.
3. Cross-cradle
   Similar to the cradle-hold, the nursing pillow can be used to support your position as well as the baby while it lies on its side, in front of your breasts and on top of the pillow.
4. Clutch or football hold
   This position is mostly used by women with twins, and having a nursing pillow at hand will be incredibly useful. You can position the pillow in a c-shape around your hips or your back for extra support and let your baby rest on either side while holding it safely tucked under your arm. Breastfeeding pillows are especially popular for this position as mothers get to rest their elbows on the pillows and can relax more while their baby is feeding.

FAQs

What should I look for when buying a pregnancy pillow?

Some things to consider while choosing a breastfeeding pillow include:

• Whether it is easily washable
• Made of hypo-allergenic materials
• Fit and shape
  • C-Shape
  • O-Shape
  • Crescent Shape
  • Wedged
  • Full body Pillow

For more advice, read our guide on how to choose a pregnancy pillow. 

Can I use pregnancy pillows for bottle feeding?

Absolutely! If you are struggling with breastfeeding or prefer bottle feeding, a nursing pillow will work just as great and prevent gastric reflux. It works in a similar way and supports your seating position or your baby's nursing position. 

What else can I use my pregnancy pillow for?

Pregnancy pillows are popular as they are a multi-purpose item which can support you through many stages of the maternity journey. Here are just a few examples:

• Sleep and sitting support during pregnancy
• Preventing heartburn by keeping you in a neutral sleeping position
• Support and stabiliser during tummy time for your baby
• Supports your baby's sleep during contact naps while you're sitting comfortably

What if my pregnancy support pillow doesn’t work for me?

Pregnancy or nursing pillows are by no means a requirement when breastfeeding your baby. Each baby is different, just like each pregnancy is different. Your experience of motherhood and nursing will differ completely from someone else's.

You might find that a normal pillow is better to support you, which is why it's worth trying different options out. There are lots of options to choose from, including body support pillows and v-shaped pillows. 

Find the perfect pregnancy pillow at Sleepseeker

Explore our range of pillows to find the perfect match for your needs as a new parent. We offer a wide range of pillows, from body pillows to anti-allergy pillows and luxury pillows. At Sleepseeker, we also have a wide range of bedding options, including duvets and mattress toppers to help you get a peaceful night of sleep. We even offer pet bedding for your four-legged best friends!