Not all friends and relatives may be supportive of breastfeeding. This does not necessarily mean they disagree with it. Some people have not had the exposure or education, which can lead to the mindset “I was never breastfed and I turned out fine.” This can also be related to different generations.
Breastfeeding was more popular during certain time periods. All of these differences may lead to unwanted advice. Each mother handles these comments differently. You may feel more comfortable to just smile and nod or it may make you feel more comfortable to educate your friend or relative on the benefits of breastfeeding.
2. You’re the mom
Be confident! When it comes down to it, you are your baby’s mother. You always have your baby’s best interest in mind. Disregard other people’s opinions. You are a super mom giving your baby the best possible form of nutrition.
If you encounter someone questioning the length of time you plan to nurse your baby advise them that it is recommended babies exclusively breastfeed for at least 6 months and to at least 1 year of age.
3. Be cautious when playing “pass the baby”
Relatives may feel entitled to hold your baby. Remember if your baby is under 1 month of age her immune system is immature and more susceptible to infections. This time of celebration can also be the peak time for many colds, flu, and other viruses.
In addition, babies can also become overstimulated easily. Older babies may exhibit stranger anxiety by being held by someone unfamiliar to them. You can consider wearing your baby in a carrier should this be an issue. Be assertive and let whoever is holding your baby know when it is time to take a break or nurse.
4. Be cautious with solid foods
Relatives may want to offer your baby a “treat or just a taste” of something they’ve made. This may not be the right age or time for you to introduce solid foods to your baby. Simply tell them all your baby needs right now is breast milk.
5. Have support
To decrease stress, ask a friend or relative to watch after any other children while you nurse.
6. Plan for privacy as needed
Each mother feels comfortable in different forms of breastfeeding. Some moms prefer to nurse with a nursing cover or even in a completely private room. Ask the host of your party if there is a quiet room with a door you can temporarily use. If you are in a more public setting such as a park, you may choose to nurse in your air-conditioned car.
Other mothers feel completely comfortable with no nursing cover breastfeeding their baby in a more public setting. Both of these methods are completely okay. Do what makes you feel the most comfortable. Make sure others respect your decisions.
7. Be mindful of the food you eat
While it’s okay to cook foods containing sage, oregano, parsley, and peppermint and use them in fragrance throughout your home, excessive intake of these items can decrease milk supply.
8. Consume alcohol in moderation
You may be staring at your friends or family envious while they drink their glass of wine. Actually, you may not have to miss out. One to two alcoholic beverages likely cause no harm to a breastfed baby. It is not known exactly what level of alcohol is okay.
In general, the amount of alcohol in your breast milk is similar to the amount in your bloodstream. This means if you are feeling the effects of alcohol there is a higher percentage in your breast milk. Do not feed your baby breast milk if you feel drunk. Pump and dump this milk or use the milk for a milk bath. Remember, alcohol affects people differently so listen to your body.
9. Adhere to a schedule
To avoid a supply drop, clogged ducts, or mastitis, plan on breastfeeding or pumping right before you arrive at the party. This will give you a longer window before you need to empty your breasts again, which can help you stay on track.
It is more difficult to take a break from the party to pump/breastfeed when you have arrived shortly before. Don’t forget to bring a cooler with ice packs or ask to use the host’s refrigerator if you are pumping.
10. Have fun! Enjoy yourself and your baby.
Remember that nursing can provide peace for you and your baby during the busy holiday season. Short breaks away from the festivities are all worth the benefits of breast milk you are giving your baby.
We’re here to help
If you are pregnant and would like more information about breastfeeding call The Care Connection at (716) 725-6370 to sign up for our Breastfeeding 101 class.
