I’ve breastfed twice over the festive season; once as a very new mum to a barely six-week-old baby going through their first growth spurt (isn’t that fun)!), and the other as a slightly more veteran mum to a weaning six-month-old, so I’m well aware that Christmas can bring unique challenges for breastfeeding mums.
Breastfeeding during Christmas
From attending Christmas parties to managing the big day itself, here are some tips to help you navigate breastfeeding during the Christmas season.
Plan ahead and get pumping
If you are planning to leave your baby to attend a Christmas party, or simply want to share the load on Christmas day, then expressing your milk and storing it means you won’t have to cut your fun short. Leaving plenty of time before the big day, start pumping regularly to express milk for your baby. Store it properly in labelled containers or breastmilk bags in the fridge or freezer. This ensures your little one has enough milk while you’re away.
Investing in a wearable breast pump such as the Momcozy breast pump means that you can pump on the go, discreetly, which is useful if you work or have to lots to get done. This breast pump has a ‘baby mouth’ design which makes expressing more efficient, and has a vibrating and pumping setting which stimulates and helps prevent engorgement and mastitis, which is just about the least fun you can possible have with your boobs.
Oh and don’t worry about having a drink or two on Christmas day – there is no need to ‘pump and dump’. The alcohol will leave your milk at the same speed as it leaves your blood, and a glass of wine with your dinner shouldn’t affect your breastmilk if you leave it several hours to feed. If you have a store of expressed milk, you will be able to relax knowing your baby has everything they need. See more on the NHS website here.
Dress Comfortably
It’s nice to get dressed up for Christmas, even if you’re spending it at home, but when breastfeeding there are obviously additional considerations.
To make your day run smoothly, choose an outfit that facilitates easy and discreet breastfeeding. There are many stylish and functional nursing-friendly clothes available but if you don’t want to buy a purpose-made nursing top – and they can be expensive for something you might only wear once – there are plenty of options that will allow you to feed your baby easily without any faff.
Here are some outfit options:
1. Button-Down Shirts: Easy Style with Functionality
Button-down shirts are a classic wardrobe staple that becomes incredibly useful during the breastfeeding phase. Opt for shirts made from breathable fabrics, with buttons or poppers that run down the front to easy access for nursing while maintaining a polished and put-together look.
2. Wrap Dresses: Chic and Convenient
For a more dressy Christmas look, wrap dresses are not only fashionable but also incredibly practical for mothers breastfeeding during Christmas festivities. The adjustable wrap design allows you to create a customized fit, and it’s easy to adjust for nursing. Simply loosen the wrap for access, and you’re good to go. Additionally, the flowing silhouette is forgiving and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for postpartum wear.
3. V-Neck or Scoop Neck Tops or Dresses: Flattering and Functional
V-neck and scoop neck tops/dresses are not only flattering for many body types but also practical for breastfeeding during Christmas. The neckline naturally allows for easy access without drawing too much attention. Choose tops with a bit of stretch for added comfort, especially during those early postpartum days when your body is still adjusting.
4. Jumpsuits and Rompers: Trendy and Practical
Jumpsuits and rompers have gained popularity for their ease of wear, and they can be breastfeeding-friendly too. Look for styles with buttons, zippers, or wrap designs that allow for quick and easy access. Jumpsuits can be a chic and comfortable option for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.
Create a cosy feeding spot
Whether you’re spending Christmas at home or visiting relatives, making space to feed comfortably is important.
Set up a comfortable and private space where you can breastfeed during family gatherings. A high backed chair and a nursing pillow within reach of a table so you can have water on hand are your minimum requirements; add blankets and a footstool so you can sit back and relax.
Alternatively, if you’d feel more confident feeding privately, don’t be shy to ask for use of a bedroom.
Consider your (and baby’s) schedule
Although it’s always great to be flexible, a lot of the time, baby will not get that memo. If you have any kind of routine in place then consider your baby’s usual feeding schedule when planning Christmas activities such as eating Christmas dinner, or opening presents.
Delegate tasks (and accept help)
If you’re hosting Christmas dinner, and you have a baby, it’s entirely reasonable to expect your family and any visitors to pitch in! Whether it’s setting the table or cleaning up, having a support system allows you more time and energy to focus on your baby’s needs.
Additionally, if someone offers to help out with preparations then don’t be nervous to accept their offer. Family often can’t wait to spend time with the newest addition and bringing the potatoes is a small price to pay.
Don’t be scared of saying no
Babies are hard work and the early days are tiring and all-consuming. Even if you always host Christmas dinner, it’s OK to suggest that maybe this year you’ll spend a quite day at home. Afterall, this phase doesn’t last long; next year your child will be a toddler – or close to it – and then there will be a whole different range of exciting challenges for you!
Handle unsolicited advice like a pro
There is literally nothing in the world which can bring out the well-meaning but unsolicited advice like babies, particularly after a few festive drinks. Official science-backed guidance can change radically between generations and it’s best to take it all with a pinch of salt and stick to what you know.
If Auntie Maureen is telling you that in her day you put porridge in a bottle to help babies sleep, or your father in law tries to insist you leave the baby to cry so you can have lunch, it’s best to have an exit strategy planned; thank them politely for their input and excuse yourself to attend to your baby.
Prioritise self-care
You need to keep yourself well hydrated and well nourished, and if that means bringing your own snacks to a family gathering, then so be it. It isn’t rude to take care of yourself, and anyone that raises an eyebrow can be the next person to take the baby when they cry.
Be sure to capture memories
Your baby’s first Christmas is a truly special moment; even if the day seems to disappear in a haze of sleep deprivation and milk, make sure you get lots of pictures so you can look back in years to come.