--If you don't want to play "pass the baby" with the entire family, wear baby in a sling to keep her close. Wearing baby in a sling will help keep her calm and also allow for nursing in a discreet manner.
--If your baby is eating solid food, be aware that families love to feed the baby. If you are concerned about what foods baby will be eating, bring her favorite foods along, prepare them and hand baby and food over to eager family member wanting to feed her!
--There is an increase in plugged ducts and mastitis this time of year. Be aware that it is easy to do too much and run your body down. Also times can be very busy and we may forget to nurse baby as often. Remember to drink to thirst, rest, don't over-do and nurse baby often!
--Being around family may cause them to question some of your choices, i.e., breastfeeding, cl-sleeping, etc... Plan ahead of time what your responses will be and make sure your spouse will be supportive also.
--Be prepared for baby to possibly be more fussy at family gatherings. Imagine how unsettling it can be for little ones to be in a room with lots of people, noise, etc... All they know is mom and nursing will make them feel better. So you may notice an increase in nursing. That is okay...roll with it!
--Some mothers shared that their baby doesn't nurse well in crowds so they need to find a quiet place to nurse. Be prepared for this if your little one is very fussy.
--Georgia state law protects mothers and babies. You are allowed to nurse anywhere you are allowed to be. You may be asked to leave a room or go somewhere else in a family members home. Be prepared with your response to this ahead of time so you aren't caught off guard!
Happy Holidays and Happy Nursing!!
Posts
Sorry I missed the meeting. I will try to come to the next one. I am a breastfeeding enthusiast (actually my 6 month old Cyrus is even more enthusiastic than I am) with many of the issues that you listed above. Thanks for the advice. It's very timely.
ReplyDelete-Shirin