Koala Hug Baby Instruction Manual

1. Introducing Koala Hug Baby

Koala Hug Baby is a versatile 5-in-1 pillow designed for both mothers and babies. It supports nursing (breastfeeding or bottle-feeding) and key developmental milestones such as post-feed relaxation, tummy time, and learning to sit up.

Why it's special:

• Its C-shape design securely wraps around the mother's body, ensuring the pillow stays in the correct position during feeding without constraint.
• The pillow's shape and special fiber padding promote an ergonomic and good posture for the mother, reducing muscle tension in the arms, shoulders, and neck, and relieving pressure around the belly.
• Its size is specifically designed to provide the baby with the optimal space for maximum comfort during each feed.
• It includes a 100% cotton pillowcase that is removable and washable, respecting the baby's sensitive skin.
• The 100% polyester inner fiber filling offers maximum support and prevents the baby from sinking down.
• One side is made of cotton, while the other features breathable 3D mesh, maximizing airflow and making it ideal for warmer days.
• The pillow is not bulky and is easily portable.
• Its C-shape provides excellent support for post-feed relaxation (from 3 months+), tummy time (from 6 months+), and while learning to sit up (from 9 months+).

2. How to Use Koala Hug Baby

1. Breastfeeding

Koala Hug Baby enhances the breastfeeding experience, making it positive and comfortable for both mother and baby. Its anatomical design helps mothers maintain correct posture, alleviating muscle aches and strain on the arms and back from holding the baby. For newborns, it aids in correct positioning at the breast, promoting healthy digestion and a soothing feeding time.

An illustration shows a mother holding a baby in a breastfeeding position, supported by the Koala Hug Baby pillow. The baby is positioned at the mother's breast, and the pillow cradles the baby comfortably.

2. Bottle-feeding

Maintaining an ergonomic posture is crucial during bottle-feeding for the comfort of both baby and parents. Positioning newborns on the pillow facing the parent, with their head resting on the edge, can help prevent post-feed regurgitation.

An illustration depicts a parent holding a baby for bottle-feeding. The baby is supported by the Koala Hug Baby pillow, with their head resting on the edge of the pillow.

3. Post-feed Relaxation and More

The pillow is useful for holding your baby comfortably after a feed. It can also be used when the baby is relaxing. Babies enjoy relaxing and being massaged on their backs while lying on their stomach, supported by the pillow, which takes the strain off the parent's arms. After a feed, the pillow provides a perfect place for the baby to relax with their head slightly elevated, aiding digestion and preventing regurgitation.

CAUTION: The pillow is not intended for sleeping and should always be used under adult supervision.

An illustration shows a baby lying on their back on the Koala Hug Baby pillow, appearing relaxed. The pillow supports the baby's head and body.

4. Tummy Time

The Koala Hug Baby serves as a valuable companion for Tummy Time. Place your baby on the pillow with their chest and arms resting on it. Tummy Time helps infants strengthen their neck, back, and shoulder muscles. Babies can begin practicing short periods of tummy time from the first few days. To do this, place the baby on their stomach with their arms and chest on the pillow and attract their attention to encourage them to lift their head.

An illustration shows a baby lying on their stomach on the Koala Hug Baby pillow, with their chest and arms resting on it. The baby is looking forward, as if practicing tummy time.

5. For Learning How to Sit Up

As babies learn to sit up, they require support. The Koala Hug Baby provides this support, helping them build confidence and develop the balance needed to sit independently. Encouraging your little one to sit up with their back resting on the pillow aids in this process.

An illustration shows a baby sitting upright, supported by the Koala Hug Baby pillow placed behind them. The baby appears stable and is learning to sit independently.

The Midwife's Opinion

This information is provided in collaboration with Valentina De Pietro, Midwife and Lactation Consultant. She guides mothers through pregnancy and the post-natal journey, offering consultations and courses on prenatal care, breastfeeding, and weaning.

3. Benefits of a Nursing Pillow

Using a breastfeeding pillow offers numerous benefits:

• Helps Mum Maintain Correct Posture: Its anatomical design supports correct posture during breastfeeding, reducing muscular pain and poor posture.
• Prevents the Risk of Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): The pillow helps prevent plagiocephaly by reducing the duration a baby's head rests against the mother's arm during feeds.
• Helps Position Baby Correctly: It facilitates proper latching and positioning for newborns, contributing to a pleasant and relaxing feeding experience and aiding digestion.
• Valuable Help Even for Bottle-feeding: Maternity pillows are beneficial for bottle-fed babies too. Positioning an infant on the pillow with their head resting on the higher edge can help prevent post-feed regurgitation.

4. How to Recognize Newborn Hunger Cues

It is important to observe newborns and learn to recognize their feeding cues. Hunger cues can be categorized as early or late.

Early Hunger Cues:

• Baby puts their little fist towards their mouth.
• Baby looks for the breast.
• Baby moves head in a "woodpecker" movement.

What to do: Bring your baby closer to your breast to soothe and calm them for feeding.

Late Hunger Cues:

• Baby cries.
• Baby becomes fussy.
• Baby turns red.

What to do: Before feeding, soothe your baby by holding them close. If the baby is already distressed at the breast, they may become more upset. Feeding is an intimate moment requiring tranquility.

A diagram illustrates newborn hunger cues. Early signals include movement, opening the mouth, turning the head, and looking for the breast. Intermediate signals show stretching, moving more, and bringing a hand to the mouth. Late signs include crying, becoming fussy, turning red, and fidgeting. The diagram suggests calming the baby before feeding when late cues are observed, with actions like pampering, chest contact, talking, and petting.

5. Breastfeeding With a Pillow: What Are the Correct Positions to Use?

Wrap the pillow around your waist and place your baby on it. This distributes the baby's weight, preventing strain on your back or arms. Ensure the pillow does not rest on your knees, as this reduces its effectiveness.

How do I position the pillow?

The pillow should be placed under your breast and around your back. Adjust the pillow's position to suit your body shape and the baby's weight. Correct positioning is key for effective support and to avoid strain on your shoulders or back.

Which positions should I use with a nursing pillow?

Cradle Hold

Your baby lies horizontally on the nursing pillow, positioned at the height of your breast, facing each other.

An illustration shows the 'Cradle Hold' position. The baby lies horizontally on the nursing pillow, positioned at the height of the mother's breast, facing each other.

Cross-Cradle Hold

This is a variation of the cradle position where you use your opposite arm to support the baby feeding from that side.

An illustration shows the 'Cross-Cradle Hold' position, a variation of the cradle hold where the mother uses her opposite arm to support the baby feeding from that side.

Rugby Hold

Your baby is placed on the pillow and positioned on their side. Their body is horizontal, with their belly in contact with your side, and their feet towards your back.

An illustration shows the 'Rugby Hold' position. The baby is placed on the pillow on their side, with their belly against the mother's side and feet towards her back.

Upright or Koala Position

Your baby straddles the pillow, with their back and head in an upright position. This position is easier for older babies who can already sit up on their own.

An illustration shows the 'Upright or Koala Position'. The baby straddles the pillow, sitting upright with their back and head supported. This position is suitable for older babies who can sit independently.

6. How to Latch a Newborn Correctly to Your Breast

At feeding time, the mother's and baby's comfort and positioning are crucial for proper sucking and latching. Mothers can rest their back against a sofa, bed, or chair, or lie down. Arms and shoulders should be relaxed. Avoid leaning forward; always bring the baby to your breast.

A good latch should not cause discomfort or pain. If it does, the latch may be improper, for example, the baby's mouth is not open wide enough. Once the baby is positioned, bring them closer to your breast, ensuring their mouth is in front of your nipple. The baby needs to open their mouth wide enough to take in most of your areola and nipple. All breast and nipple types are suitable for a baby's mouth. Latching onto a small portion of the nipple can cause pain and result in poor milk intake.

A good latch is characterized by a deep latch, wide-open mouth, everted (not folded) lips, chin resting on the breast, and the baby's nose and forehead facing upwards.

If you experience discomfort during breastfeeding, especially in the early days, seek help from experienced breastfeeding staff who can guide you on proper technique.

A diagram illustrates the correct latch for breastfeeding. It highlights key indicators: 'mouth wide open', 'everted lip', 'chin that touch the breast', and 'asymmetrical attachment' (showing more areola visible above the mouth). It also advises seeking help if discomfort occurs.

7. Tips for a Pleasant Breastfeeding Experience

During the early days, choose a quiet, comfortable, and distraction-free place to nurse. The environment and room temperature can benefit both mother and baby.

It's important to concentrate on your baby during the first few times, observing, getting to know them, and learning to understand their cues.

The post-natal period is a time for adjustment and bonding. Creating a comfortable feeding area at home with a chair or armchair will foster independence and confidence when breastfeeding away from home. Mothers should sit in a comfortable position, allowing them to vary positions without straining their back or arms with the baby's weight.