Is it okay to use a nursing pillow for a newborn?

Understanding Nursing Pillows for Newborns
Nursing pillows, designed primarily to support breastfeeding mothers and their infants, have gained popularity among new parents. However, the question arises: is it safe and appropriate to use a nursing pillow for a newborn?
The Purpose of Nursing Pillows
Nursing pillows serve several functions. They help elevate the baby to a comfortable height during feeding, which can reduce strain on the mother’s back and shoulders. They also create a supportive surface for the baby, allowing for better latch and positioning. Typically, these pillows are shaped like a C or a U, wrapping around the mother’s waist.
Safety Considerations
While nursing pillows can be beneficial, safety is paramount when it comes to newborns. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
1. Supervision is Key: Newborns should never be left unattended on a nursing pillow. If a baby is placed on a pillow without supervision, there is a risk of suffocation or rolling off.
2. Proper Use: Nursing pillows should be used primarily for feeding or supervised tummy time. They are not intended for sleep, and parents should avoid using them as a substitute for a crib or a safe sleep surface.
3. Firmness Matters: It’s essential to ensure that the nursing pillow is firm enough to provide support without posing a risk of suffocation. Soft, plush pillows are not recommended for newborns.
Benefits of Using Nursing Pillows
Despite the safety concerns, there are notable benefits to using nursing pillows correctly:
– Enhanced Comfort: Nursing pillows can help maintain a comfortable feeding position, which is particularly beneficial during long feeding sessions.

– Encouraging Bonding: The close proximity facilitated by nursing pillows can enhance bonding between mother and baby during feeding times.
– Tummy Time Support: Once the baby is a bit older, nursing pillows can be used to support tummy time, helping to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles.
Expert Recommendations
Health professionals, including pediatricians and lactation consultants, often recommend nursing pillows as long as parents adhere to safety guidelines. Dr. Lisa Smith, a pediatrician, states, “When used properly, nursing pillows can be a great tool for breastfeeding. Just ensure that safety is always the top priority.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, using a nursing pillow for a newborn can be perfectly fine if parents are mindful of safety precautions. Supervision, proper use, and ensuring the right firmness are essential factors to consider. By following these guidelines, parents can enjoy the benefits of nursing pillows while keeping their little ones safe.

Is it safe for a newborn to sleep on a nursing pillow?

If a baby is propped up to sleep using a nursing pillow or lounger, the baby could slide down and cause the neck to bend in a way that would block the airway. A central Pennsylvania coroner says three infants, all less than 6 months of age, have died because a popular nursing pillow was misused.

When should I start using a nursing pillow?

From the First Feed: Ideally, you can start using a nursing pillow from your baby’s first feed. It provides the necessary support for you and your newborn during those initial days of breastfeeding when both of you are still getting the hang of it.

Can a newborn sit in a nursing pillow?

Only use nursing pillows for nursing/feeding a baby. Never use nursing pillows for infant sleep or lounging. Do not place nursing pillows in other infant sleep products, such as cribs or bassinets, or anywhere a baby sleeps.

Is it okay for a newborn to sleep elevated?

Keep your baby’s sleep surface flat. Do not incline, tilt or prop the mattress, cot or baby. Doing so will not help with reflux and is unlikely to improve cold symptoms.

What type of pillow is best for a newborn?

after doing some research, we think the best option is a cotton pillow with a down filling. Cotton is gentle on delicate skin, and down is both fluffy and supportive. Plus, this type of Sleepia pillow can be easily machine-washed if it gets dirty. There are many benefits to using a pillow, especially for babies.

Is it OK to use baby pillow for newborn?

Your baby can’t sleep with a pillow until she’s a toddler. Babies should sleep on a firm, flat surface free of pillows, blankets and other soft bedding until at least age 1, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ safe sleep guidelines Opens a new window.

Is it okay to elevate baby’s head while sleeping?

Avoid devices designed to maintain head elevation in the crib. Elevating the head of a baby’s crib is not effective in reducing GER. It’s also not safe as it increases the risk of the baby rolling to the foot of the bed or into a position that may cause serious of deadly breathing problems.

Are SIDS and unsafe sleep the same thing?

Definition: Unsafe sleep environments for infants can lead to suffocation, strangulation, or entrapment (NICHD, Common SIDS and SUID Terms and Definitions ). The sudden death of an infant under one year of age that does not have an immediately obvious cause is referred to as a Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID).

Is it okay to elevate newborns head while sleeping?

Products that promise to reduce reflux by elevating your baby’s head—like wedges or sleep positioners—are not recommended by the AAP. Swings, reclined bouncy seats, or rocking sleepers are also not approved for safe sleep.

How to use a breastfeeding pillow for a newborn?

So that your nipple is right across some baby’s mouth and nose. So although this is a breastfeeding pillow you often need another pillow underneath the boppy or breastfeeding. Pillow then put baby on.