What is the Difference Between a Nursing Pillow and a Pregnancy Pillow?

Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation, but it also comes with its fair share of discomforts—especially when it comes to finding the right support for sleep and nursing. The journey from bump to baby brings different needs, and so do the pillows designed to help you through each stage. 

I’ve often had patients who found themselves overwhelmed by the sheer variety of pillows available. From pregnancy pillows that promise a good night's sleep to nursing pillows that ease the feeding process, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. 

The main difference between a nursing pillow and a pregnancy pillow lies in their purpose and design. A pregnancy pillow is designed to support a pregnant woman's body and alleviate discomfort while sleeping, whereas a nursing pillow provides support to both the mother and baby during breastfeeding. 

What is a Pregnancy Pillow?

A pregnancy pillow is crafted to offer crucial support and comfort during sleep, addressing common discomforts like back and hip pain. Coming in different shapes and sizes, they provide targeted support to areas like the belly, back, and knees, these pillows help align the spine and hips, improving overall sleep quality as well as helping prevent you from rolling onto your back. 

As the belly grows, hormonal changes occur, and side-sleeping becomes essential, many pregnant women find pregnancy pillows indispensable for ensuring a restful night’s sleep—vital for the health and well-being of both mother and baby. 

What is a Nursing Pillow?

A nursing pillow is designed to provide support during breastfeeding. These pillows help position the baby at the correct height and angle for breastfeeding, reducing strain on the mother’s arms, shoulders, and back. By offering stable support, nursing pillows make breastfeeding more comfortable and efficient.

Nursing pillows come in a variety of shapes and are made to provide a stable surface for the baby to rest on during breastfeeding, allowing the mother to maintain a comfortable and ergonomic position. This support helps prevent aches and pains associated with holding the baby for extended periods.

Why Do Breastfeeding Mothers Need a Nursing Pillow?

Breastfeeding can be physically demanding, especially in the early weeks when the baby feeds frequently. A nursing pillow helps alleviate the strain on the mother’s body by providing support and positioning the baby correctly.

This support not only makes breastfeeding more comfortable but also helps the baby latch properly, promoting effective feeding.

Nursing Pillow vs. Pregnancy Pillow: What's the Difference?

The primary difference between nursing pillows and pregnancy pillows lies in their intended use. While pregnancy pillows are designed to provide support to alleviate discomfort during sleep, nursing pillows are specifically made to support the baby during breastfeeding. 

However, the main difference really comes down to how they're used. For example, our Butterfly Maternity Pillow® can easily serve both purposes. With the addition of our nursing cover, it transforms from a supportive pregnancy pillow into a perfectly shaped nursing pillow. This means you get the comfort you need during pregnancy, and then simply adapt the same pillow for breastfeeding once your baby arrives.

When to Use a Pregnancy Pillow vs. a Nursing Pillow?

When to Start Using a Pregnancy Pillow?

It’s never too early to start prioritising your comfort during pregnancy. As soon as you begin to feel any discomfort—often around the second trimester—it's time to consider using a pregnancy pillow.

Our Butterfly Maternity Pillow® is specifically designed to support your body as it changes, helping you maintain a comfortable side-sleeping position and alleviating pressure on your back, hips, and belly. Its compact wedge shape is particularly effective in preventing you from rolling onto your back during sleep, a common concern for many pregnant women.

By incorporating the Butterfly Maternity Pillow® into your sleep routine early on, you can prevent many common pregnancy-related sleep issues and establish healthy sleep habits that benefit both you and your baby.

Check out our Butterfly Maternity Pillows® here. 

When to Start Using a Nursing Pillow?

Nursing pillows should be used from the beginning of your breastfeeding journey. They provide essential support during feeding sessions, helping both the mother and baby find a comfortable and effective position.

For added convenience, our Butterfly Nursing Cover can transform your Butterfly Maternity Pillow into a supportive nursing pillow. The cover is designed with ease and comfort in mind, allowing you to convert the maternity pillow into a stable, comfy nursing pillow.

This helps position the baby at the correct height during feeds, reducing strain on your arms, shoulders, and back—especially important in those early weeks when feedings are frequent.

Using the Butterfly Nursing Cover ensures that you can comfortably and effectively support your baby during breastfeeding, making it a versatile addition to your routine from the start of your nursing journey.

Check out our Butterfly Nursing Covers here. 

Nursing Pillow Alternatives

While traditional nursing pillows serve their purpose well, you might be looking for something more versatile that can support other activities for your baby. This is where the Butterfly Baby Pod comes in—a multi-functional product that goes beyond just feeding time.

Here’s why the Butterfly Baby Pod is a superior alternative:

• Tummy Time: Tummy time is crucial for your baby’s development, helping to build strength in their neck, shoulders, and arms. The Butterfly Baby Pod provides a soft, supportive surface that encourages your baby to lift their head and engage their muscles, making tummy time a fun and beneficial part of their routine.
• Safe Play and Rest Space: The Butterfly Baby Pod creates a secure and cosy environment for your baby, whether they’re playing under supervision or taking a supervised nap. Its thoughtful design ensures that your baby is comfortable and supported, giving you peace of mind.

Whether it’s for tummy time, play, or rest, the Butterfly Baby Pod is designed to grow with your baby, providing a comfy space even after the newborn phase.

Check out our Baby Pods here. 

FAQs About Pregnancy and Nursing Pillows

Can I use a regular pillow instead of a pregnancy pillow?

Regular pillows may not provide the necessary support for pregnant women.

When should I start using a pregnancy pillow?

Start using a pregnancy pillow as soon as you feel discomfort or find yourself rolling onto your back at night.

Is a wedge pillow suitable for all sleeping positions?

The wedge pillow is versatile and can be used for various sleeping positions.

Can I use a nursing pillow for tummy time?

Yes, a nursing pillow can be used during tummy time to support your baby as they build neck and shoulder strength.

Is a nursing pillow necessary for breastfeeding?

While not absolutely necessary, a nursing pillow can greatly enhance comfort and support for both mother and baby, making breastfeeding sessions more comfortable and reducing strain.

Can a nursing pillow be used for bottle feeding?

Absolutely. A nursing pillow can provide support during bottle feeding, helping to position the baby comfortably and reducing strain on the caregiver’s arms.

What other uses does a nursing pillow have beyond feeding?

Nursing pillows can also be used to help prop up a baby when they are learning to sit, for tummy time, or as a cushion for parents when sitting on the floor.

Closing Thoughts

Finding the right pillow can make a world of difference in your comfort and sleep quality during pregnancy and breastfeeding. At Butterfly Maternity, we're dedicated to giving mums-to-be and new mothers the support they need with our versatile and high-quality pillows. 

Whether you need targeted relief for your back, belly, or support for breastfeeding, our pillows have got you covered. Check out our selection and experience the difference for yourself. Sweet dreams and comfy nights await!

*The shape of the Butterfly Maternity Pillow® is a registered trade mark of Weekly Sales Pty Ltd