Navigating Unsolicited Advice over the holidays!
Greetings, wonderful parents and parents-to-be! As the holiday season is upon us, I, your friendly neighborhood lactation consultant and postpartum doula, am here with some tips and tricks to help you enjoy a stress-free and joyous time with your little one.
First and foremost, let's talk about mastitis. It's the dreaded enemy of breastfeeding parents, but fear not! With a little awareness and some proactive steps, you can steer clear of this holiday spoiler. As a lactation consultant, I cannot stress enough the importance of maintaining good breastfeeding practices during this time.
The hustle and bustle of the holidays can sometimes lead to neglecting our own self-care, so here are some valuable suggestions to avoid mastitis while celebrating:
1. Stay well nourished: Remember to keep sipping water throughout the day. It's easy to get caught up in the festivities and forget to drink enough fluids and have something to nibble whenever you sit down to nurse your baby.Staying well fuelled is crucial to mamas wellbeing and milk making.
2. Manage Stress: Easier said than done, I know, but stress can have a significant impact on breastfeeding. Try to delegate tasks, say "no" to unnecessary obligations, and take some time for yourself to relax and recharge.
3. Breastfeed Frequently: Find a comfortable spot amidst the holiday chaos and nurse your little one as often as they demand. If you find you have missed a feed and are feeling full and uncomfortable try this technique..https://youtu.be/K6U-VFC490o?si=oEyy8K72vonxwXac
Regular breastfeeding helps in keeping the milk flowing and preventing engorgement.( Link to breastfeeding holds vid)
https://youtu.be/_a4WSmOlWOY?si=uMURn77KH7powkZX
4. Avoid Tight Clothing: While dressing up for the holiday parties, opt for loose, comfortable clothing that doesn't constrict your breasts. This will allow for better milk flow and minimize the risk of blocked ducts.(link to mastitis protocol)
https://youtu.be/40oWtq6DrpQ?si=pVy61tfPYZ1_JDsC
5. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider if you notice any signs of mastitis. Early intervention is key, and we are here to help you through any breastfeeding challenges. Book a consult with me!
Now, let's tackle the second topic, which is the ever-looming cloud of unsolicited advice. Ah, the holiday season has a way of bringing forth a flood of well-intentioned (but sometimes overwhelming) suggestions from friends and family.
As a postpartum doula, I understand the frustration that comes with receiving unsolicited advice, especially when it comes to parenting and breastfeeding.
Here's how to navigate through this sea of opinions with grace:
1. Set Boundaries: It's perfectly okay to politely but firmly establish boundaries when it comes to unsolicited advice. Whether that is passing your baby around from person to person or making sure everyone has washed their hands before touching your baby. Let your loved ones know that while you appreciate their concerns, you have a healthcare provider and support network that you trust to guide you in your parenting journey.
2. Redirect the Conversation: When faced with unsolicited advice, gracefully steer the conversation in a different direction. You can gently shift the focus to another topic or express gratitude for the care and concern while maintaining your own parenting decisions.
3. Educate When Appropriate: If you encounter persistent advice-givers, consider educating them about the latest recommendations from healthcare professionals. Sometimes, people simply lack updated information and a little gentle education can go a long way.
4. Lean on Your Support System: Surround yourself with people who respect your parenting choices and provide the positive reinforcement you need. Whether it's a supportive partner, fellow parents, or a trusted friend, having a strong support system can help you stay grounded amidst the holiday advice onslaught.
5. Trust Your Instincts: Remember, you know your baby best. Trust your instincts and the knowledge you've gained from reputable sources. You are the expert on your own child and your decisions are what matter most.
As we venture into this festive season, let's embrace the joy and warmth of the holidays while prioritizing our well-being and parenting autonomy.
Be kind to yourself, seek support when needed and savor the precious moments with your little one. Remember, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Wishing you all a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories!
You have got this.
Kitty 💓