Let's admit one fact: The holiday season, as magical and exciting as it is, is a bit overwhelming with the amount of food, candy, toys, gifts and visits you have to get in, in a truthfully short period of time. So how does breastfeeding fit in to all of this craziness? How can you cope with all of the hullaballoo and still sit down to nurse your baby?
I have so much to do to get ready for the holidays? How am I supposed to fit in the time to feed?
Regardless of how old your baby is, breastfeeding Moms may notice that, with all of the extra commitments they've taken on, the baby's feeding patterns may be off. During this time, ensure that you are spending extra time tending to your baby: it's a simple issue of nursing your baby and eating a healthy diet. Try your best to not skip feedings, despite the fact that the baby is sleeping beautifully during your shopping spree at the mall. Aside from the fact that the baby needs consistent feedings, you may end up with plugged ducts, mastitis or a temporary dip in milk supply. Breastfeeding the baby is a great excuse to sit down and relax.
What am I supposed to wear to make this an easy task?
When you are out and about, you're going to have to nurse your baby in many different places. Having a simple shirt and a great nursing bra is key. If you have to attend a more formal holiday party, make sure that your outfit is two-piece (a skirt and a top), so that you don't have to completely disrobe to feed your baby. Layering your clothes is a great option: you can wear a nursing camisole with a blouse, which will look great and be very discreet.
How do I deal with breastfeeding problems during this time?
If you are pregnant and due during the holiday season, be prepared by knowing where to get help with breastfeeding. Since many Moms are housebound around this time, they spend a lot of time in the breastfeeding forum, especially if they want some immediate answers. It is best, though, to get in touch with a lactation consultant before you deliver. That way you can get to know her availability, if need be. You should also take a prenatal breastfeeding class, so you have a sense of how to latch on your baby. You will also learn about how to avoid and deal with engorgement, how to hand-express your breasts and feed the baby when he doesn't want to latch on. This way, you have some important knowledge to carry you through the holidays just in case you can't get in touch with anyone.
I am breastfeeding. How do I deal with all of the unsolicited advice and commentary from family members and friends?
Many people think that they're doing you a favor if they offer to feed the baby a bottle. Remember that you're the boss. If you don't want to do something, a simple "that's very sweet of you, but I think we're okay" will suffice. You don't have to give excuses or explanations about the fact that you're breastfeeding.
Then there's the issue of introducing solids. The same rule applies: You know your baby best of all, so if she isn't ready yet, stick with breastfeeding. The truth is, if you're away from home for the holidays, introducing solids may not be such a great idea anyway. If your baby has any negative reactions to the newly introduced food, your holiday may simply not feel like a holiday.
Many Moms worry about latching on the baby at the dinner table. The baby should be able to partake in his meal as well as everyone else. Having a family member or friend close by to cut your food for you while you are feeding the baby will really help. Just be careful not to drop anything on the baby! On the other hand, feel free to escape to a quiet room to nurse your baby if this is the more relaxing option. Your baby's distraction level may make this decision for you, and once the baby is finished, you can rejoin the company at the table with a content child.
Ah, sleep ... another topic where comments arise! Babies sleep best in environments in which they're accustomed to (i.e., noise level and light). You clearly can't mimic the baby's sleep space while away from home, but this is one of those times where you just need to "get by." If you feel that your baby does best in the same room where you are and he is sleeping best on your lap or in a car seat while you are having dinner, then go with it! Some Moms use baby slings or bouncy seats during this time. Most importantly, filter out the commentary of others about where they think the baby should be sleeping.
Some people have never seen nursing babies older than a few months. They may comment that it looks weird to see a nursing baby who walks, or a baby who asks his mom to nurse. Once again, don't feel as though you have to explain anything to them. It's their issue, not yours. How long you choose to breastfeed is a very personal decision. It's only important that you know that you and your baby are reaping the benefits from breastfeeding.
I'm dying to have a glass of wine during the holidays! Can I?
Yes, you can! The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Drugs classifies alcohol as a "Maternal Medication Usually Compatible with Breastfeeding." The typical rule-of-thumb is that you can have two drinks, just not on the same night. Go ahead and enjoy it!
My baby daughter and I both have food allergies. How can we maneuver the holidays?
The holiday season is a tough one for Moms and children who have food allergies. Every event focuses on food, which may contain ingredients that you can't tolerate. Some hosts with a lack of knowledge about allergies may put the pressure on you to try certain dishes, assuming that "one time won't hurt." You just have to politely explain that it can. Tell them about reactions you or the baby have to particular foods, giving graphic details if need be! For a holiday dinner, offer to bring a dish that you know you can enjoy in case there's nothing else on the table that's agreeable. In addition, carry a stash of food when you're traveling, just in case you're stuck on the runway or in traffic for hours.
Finally, recognize that this is a stressful time of year. If you need to take some steps back, there's always next year.
