More than 85% of women around the world breast feed their babies. While most experts agree that breastfeeding is the best way to feed your baby, there are misconceptions about this special process and relationship between mother and child. While breastfeeding is a most natural process, it is a learned skill that requires some practice by both mother and baby before it works smoothly.
Since many factors go into a successful breastfeeding experience, much can be learned by reading a good breastfeeding book during pregnancy. A good one is "The Ultimate Breastfeeding Book of Answers:” The Most Comprehensive Problem-Solving Guide to Breastfeeding by Dr. Jack Newman and Teresa Pitman. It is also helpful to join a breastfeeding mother's group where you can share experiences and get ideas from other new moms who are also learning about breastfeeding.
Equipment-wise, you will need a good nursing bra and a nursing pillow designed especially to facilitate breastfeeding. The bra can probably wait until you settle into a good feeding routine and know the exact size needed. The pillows come in several styles to support the type of nursing pattern you intend to follow.
Types of Nursing Pillows
Although breastfeeding is a natural and nurturing act, it can sometimes be uncomfortable for the new mother. Nursing pillows were created to address that problem. They are used to help hold the baby at the breast, allowing it to stay in a good nursing position while providing support for the mom's back and arms. There are many nursing pillows on the market to meet your personal preference. Some of the leading pillows are:
The Boppy Bare Naked Support Pillow - This very popular pillow has a circular shape designed to fit around the mother's waist. It lifts and supports the baby at the breast thereby relieving back, neck and shoulder pain for the mother. The Boppy is a soft pillow which comes with a washable cover. It can also be used when the baby begins to sit up independently.
My Best Friend Breastfeeding Pillow - Also made in a circular design, this nursing pillow is made of a sturdy foam. It provides a more customized fit by wrapping around the mother's waist with adjustable straps. Some mothers prefer this pillow because it is attached more closely to their body and therefore provides more support.
Natural Boost Adjustable Nursing Pillow - Designed to lift and support the baby at the breast, this pillow is made from a thick soft cushion that contours around the mother's waist. It has an attached wedge booster pillow, which can be used on either side to provide extra support to the baby's head.
Viva Breastfeeding Pillow - This inflatable nursing pillow is ideal for traveling and comes with a quick inflate pump. It wipes clean and has a removable cover that is machine washable. The Viva Breastfeeding Pillow fits around the mother's waist with adjustable straps. It has a back-support pillow and a support cushion for the baby.
How to use a Nursing Pillow
Holding your baby in the proper position is essential for a comfortable and successful feed. Even then, having the baby in your arms can make it so hard for you since your arms can get tired and low positioning of the baby may cause discomforts for the nipples. Because nursing pillows are specially designed for holding the baby in a comfortable position for breastfeeding, a nursing pillow addresses both these issues. Using the pillow does not require much effort or preparation and involves only a few simple steps.
1) Be in a good position and remember to choose a spot which provides enough support for your back like a bed or a chair.
2) Place the pillow in the correct position as recommended in its instructions. Nursing pillows, such as the Boppy and the My Best Friend are U-shaped and designed to wrap around the mother's body; others, such as the Natural Boost are simply placed in the lap.
3) Position your baby on her side on the pillow. Place the baby so that her mouth and nose face your nipple without having to turn her head. Bring the baby in toward your breast and allow her to grasp your nipple in her mouth to begin feeding.
4) To discretely breastfeed in public, special garments such as a "wearable blanket" are available for nursing mothers. To use one of these blankets, Place it around your neck and situate it so that it falls down your front and covers your baby and your upper body. Then you can feed the baby while feeling relaxed, and the pillow can be used as the armrest as well.
Following these few guidelines will make nursing more comfortable for you and your baby while providing that special nourishment that can only come from you. You are the only one who can make the food that is uniquely perfect for your baby. Invest the time in yourself and your baby — for your baby’s health and for the bond that will last a lifetime.
