Question
Do newborns need pillows? What impact do newborn pillows have on growth and development?
Answer
Under normal circumstances, newborns do not need pillows. Since a newborn’s spine is straight, lying flat keeps the back and back of the head on the same plane, preventing muscle tension and discomfort. Additionally, a newborn’s head width is almost equal to the shoulders, making it natural for them to sleep either on their back or side. Therefore, there is no need for a pillow. Using a pillow can actually cause deformation of the newborn’s neck, affecting breathing and swallowing, and is detrimental to the baby’s development.