How to Use a Pregnancy Pillow for Nursing and Bottle-Feeding
When I bought my pregnancy pillow, I thought I would only use it during pregnancy. But after my baby was born, I quickly realized it could also be a lifesaver for nursing and bottle-feeding. It helped me stay comfortable, support my baby properly, and prevent those painful back and neck aches that come from hunching over.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to use a pregnancy pillow for feeding your baby, no matter which shape you have.
Table of Contents
Why Use a Pregnancy Pillow for Feeding?
Feeding sessions can last a long time, and holding your baby in the right position without support can be exhausting. A pregnancy pillow keeps your arms and baby elevated so you can relax and focus on bonding.
➡️ My favorite multi-use pillow: PharMeDoc U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow on Amazon – it works during pregnancy and postpartum.
How to Use a U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow for Feeding
The U-shaped pillow surrounds your body and can be wrapped around your waist like a nursing pillow.
- Sit in a comfortable chair or bed and place the pillow around you.
- Position your baby on top, with their head near your breast or bottle level.
- Adjust the pillow sides for extra back and arm support.
➡️ The QUEEN ROSE U-Shaped Pillow is my top choice for this method.
How to Use a C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow for Feeding
C-shaped pillows are slightly smaller but work just as well.
- Wrap the pillow around your back and bring the open end across your waist.
- Place your baby on the supported side so they’re at the right height for feeding.
- Use the pillow’s back section for lumbar support as you sit.
➡️ Try the Leachco Snoogle C-Shaped Pillow for this arrangement.
How to Use a Wedge Pillow for Feeding
A wedge pillow is compact and perfect for propping your baby or arms during shorter feeding sessions.
- Place the wedge on your lap under your arm or baby for elevation.
- Combine it with a smaller cushion behind your back for comfort.
➡️ The Hiccapop Pregnancy Wedge Pillow is small but very versatile.
Extra Tips for Comfort While Feeding
- Keep your baby’s head slightly elevated to help with digestion.
- Switch sides and adjust the pillow to avoid sore spots.
- If feeding in bed, place extra pillows behind your back for better posture.
- Use the pregnancy pillow to support your elbows and shoulders, not just the baby.
➡️ Shop all pregnancy pillows perfect for nursing and feeding on Amazon here
My Final Thoughts
A pregnancy pillow is one of the most versatile tools you can have as a new mom. It not only makes pregnancy more comfortable but also helps with nursing and bottle-feeding once your baby arrives.
Personally, I loved using the PharMeDoc U-Shaped Pillow because it supported my baby, arms, and back all at the same time.
➡️ Click here to shop the best pregnancy pillows for feeding on Amazon
Trust me, your body will thank you during those long feeding sessions.
When I first tried using my pregnancy pillow for feeding, I didn’t realize how much easier it would make the process. Holding a newborn for long periods is tough, and the pillow instantly relieved pressure on my shoulders and arms.
One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was not positioning the pillow high enough. If your baby is too low, you’ll end up hunching forward, which causes back and neck pain. Make sure the pillow brings your baby up to your chest level so you can sit upright.
I also found that using a small extra cushion behind my lower back while the pregnancy pillow supported my baby made me even more comfortable. This setup worked great for both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding.
If you’re using a U-shaped pillow, you can also tuck one side behind your back for lumbar support while feeding. It’s a simple trick that prevents slouching during those late-night sessions.
I loved using my pregnancy pillow for side-lying nursing when I was exhausted. I would place the pillow along my back and use the open space for my baby to lie next to me. This arrangement kept us both comfortable and supported.
For bottle-feeding, I discovered that the pillow could prop up my baby safely on my lap while I held the bottle. This freed up one of my arms and made it easier to multitask when needed.
If you have a wedge pillow, try using it under your arm for extra elbow support. This helps especially when your baby is growing heavier and you need to avoid muscle strain.
Another hack I used was using the pillow for burping. After feeding, I’d keep the pillow around my waist and place my baby upright on top of it. This kept them elevated and made burping easier.
I also used my pregnancy pillow for tandem feeding when I had to nurse and bottle-feed my twins at the same time. The U-shaped design was wide enough to hold both babies comfortably.
One thing I wish I’d done sooner was keeping a water bottle and snacks within reach before I started feeding. Once you’re set up with the pillow and baby, you won’t want to move, so having everything nearby makes the process smoother.
If you ever need to feed your baby in bed, pregnancy pillows help keep you propped up in a reclined position. I would lean back slightly with my baby on the pillow across my lap, which was comfortable and safe.
Lastly, remember that consistency is key. The more you use the pillow, the more natural it will feel. Over time, your feeding sessions will be less about adjusting pillows and more about bonding with your baby.
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