Breastfeeding Pillows: Are They Needed?
by Sharie Fried

There are so many baby products on the market. When you are a new parent, it’s hard to know what is needed and what you can do without, what is the best and most helpful, and what have uses beyond the first few months. Everyone wants the best for their little ones, but financial concerns should always be considered. Therefore, parents need to check out each baby-related product carefully.

No everyone needs breastfeeding pillows, but for the majority of new moms, they are lifesavers. In many cases, it’s the difference between successful nursing and quitting altogether.

Not all pillows work, so please be careful. Look for a “U” shaped pillow. It needs to be wide enough on the sides to allow nursing in a variety of positions. A strap in the back helps keep it in position. You want the pillow to be firm. A pillow that is soft will not support the baby at the correct height during nursing.

Look for a pillow that has a cover that unzips. You will need to wash it often. Front pockets help hold a sports bottle filled with fluids. They can also be used to hold diapers and wipes, a phone, or a TV remote control.

Beware of pillows that angle or slope, or those that are rounded on top. These configurations limit the amount of positions you can use for your baby. The height of the pillow is important, too. A 5-inch height is ideal.

Many people comment that breastfeeding pillows do not fit well in rockers and gliders. They’re not supposed to. Rockers and gliders put the mother in a poor position for nursing. Couches, beds, and straight-back chairs work best. Many moms complain about back pain. In most cases, it’s because mom has to crouch down to nurse the baby. A good breastfeeding pillow will solve this problem.

Breastfeeding pillows are also good for the years following nursing. They can be used in a car as a table top for kids, a support for your baby as he or she learns to sit, and much more.

So, to answer the question, `Are breastfeeding pillows needed,’ the answer is yes. Especially for first time moms, moms having trouble nursing, for sore nipples, and for moms experiencing neck, back, or shoulder pains. It is a definite necessity for nursing mothers of twins.

For more information, contact Sharie Fried at Sharie’s Lactation Station, (805) 296-1280.