Breastfeeding Pillows for You and Baby
Author: Heather Slee
Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience shared between you and your baby, but it can also be challenging. There are so many things nursing mothers have to worry about: latching, nipple pain, sore backs and arms, and more. Luckily, there are quite a few nursing pillows on the market that can make the act of breastfeeding less of a "job" and more of a "joy!" Here are just a few of the options out there.
The Boppy is a hugely popular choice for nursing moms and bottle-feeding moms and dads. It's shaped like a "U" and can be positioned around your torso while feeding. The Boppy is simple and easy to use, provides comfort for you and your baby, and has multiple uses. Babies love the Bobby for just lounging around, it's great for tummy time, and when they're old enough to begin sitting on their own, it provides safety and support. The Boppy comes with a dizzying number of slipcover options too for you fashionable mommies. This pillow starts around $30 without added slipcovers, which vary in price.
My Breast Friend is also a wrap-around pillow. This pillow wraps entirely around Mom and also provides a cushion for back support. As well as being a cushion for your baby, this pillow also provides arm and elbow support for you, and it has handy storage pockets for bottles, toys, burp clothes, or other items. My Breast Friend costs around $40 for the original design and about $45 for the deluxe version.
Pollywog Nursing Positioner claims to be great for reducing gas, acid reflux, and ear infections due to its design; the baby is supported in a more upright position. The height is adjustable and the length is adjustable, so it is good for mothers who plan to breastfeed for up to a year or more. Pollywog also states that their positioner fits almost all rockers and gliders. This item runs around $40.
Natural Boost Adjustable Nursing Pillow also has adjustable heights and angles, which is thought to decrease instances of acid reflux, gas, and colic. This pillow conforms to the baby's shape and also comes with a preemie pillow for tiny babies. Natural Boost also boasts that switching from side to side, or breast to breast, is simple and easy with their design. You can find this pillow for around $30.
And finally, Utterly Yours Breast Pillow. This pillow is a little different from the others because it is intended to support your breast instead of the baby. If you have larger breasts, this could be a lifesaver. Your hands are free to hold the baby, and you simply position the pillow underneath your breast. This pillow is around $20.
So, as you can see, each pillow addresses slightly different situations, but all are generally designed to provide comfort for you and your baby. Prices range from $20 to $45, which, if you consider the amount of time you'll spend feeding your baby, is really a good investment. And you may even find a deal online with a little surfing. Picking out the right nursing pillow can alleviate some of your stress and discomfort, so get shopping today!
