Ileana Berrios, MS, IBCLC
The holiday season is full of joy, celebration, and family gatherings. However, for breastfeeding and pumping parents, it can also be a time of challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining your routine while traveling or attending events. Here are some practical tips for breastfeeding and pumping during the holidays to help you enjoy the season while protecting your milk supply and meeting your baby’s needs.
1. Plan Ahead for Traveling
If you’re hitting the road or flying to see family, some preparation can help make breastfeeding and pumping on the go easier.
- Bring all your essentials: Pack your breast pump, pump parts, bottles, storage bags, a cooler bag, ice packs, and any accessories you regularly use. If you’re flying, check with the airline to see if your pump counts as a medical device, allowing you to carry it without it counting toward your baggage limit.
- Know your pumping and feeding schedule: Plan your pumping and feeding sessions based on your travel itinerary. This is crucial to maintaining your milk supply and avoiding engorgement. If driving, consider stopping to breastfeed or pump every 2-3 hours. When flying, try to pump or breastfeed before boarding and use airport nursing stations when available.
- Bring a portable pump: If your usual pump is bulky, consider using a portable, hands-free breast pump for easy pumping while traveling. These pumps can be worn discreetly under your clothes and allow you to pump even when you’re on the move.
2. Create a Comfortable Space for Pumping or Breastfeeding While Visiting Family
Being away from home doesn’t mean you must give up your routine. With a little creativity and communication, you can create a comfortable space to pump or breastfeed while visiting family.
- Talk to your hosts: Before your visit, let your hosts know that you’ll need a private space to pump or breastfeed. This could be a bedroom, guest room, or any quiet space where you can relax and focus on feeding your baby.
- Don’t be afraid to nurse in public: If you feel comfortable, breastfeeding in front of family can be a great way to normalize breastfeeding. But if you prefer privacy, bring a nursing cover or scarf, or find a quiet corner to nurse.
- Stay flexible: The holidays can be unpredictable, so be flexible with your schedule. If family events or gatherings run long, find time to sneak away and pump or breastfeed. The key is to stay on track with your usual routine as much as possible to maintain your milk supply.
3. Protect Your Milk Supply During the Holiday Rush
With all the excitement and busyness of the holidays, it’s easy to skip pumping sessions or delay feedings. But doing so can impact your milk supply. Here’s how to keep things on track:
- Stick to your routine: While it may be tempting to skip a session during a busy family event, stick to your normal pumping and feeding schedule as much as possible. Skipping sessions can lead to engorgement, clogged ducts, or decreased supply.
- Hydrate and eat well: The holidays are full of delicious food but also prioritize nutrition that supports your breastfeeding journey. Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals with enough calories to sustain your milk production.
- Take breaks for self-care: Stress and fatigue can impact your milk supply, so take time for yourself. Sneak in a nap when you can, relax with a book, or take a quiet walk with your baby. The holiday season is about joy, but taking a step back and recharge is also okay.
4. Managing Stress and Expectations
The holidays can bring a lot of pressure from family and friends, which can sometimes extend to breastfeeding or pumping. If you feel overwhelmed or judged, remember you are doing what’s best for your baby.
- Set boundaries: If certain conversations about breastfeeding, pumping, or parenting make you uncomfortable, set clear boundaries. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your feeding choices.
- Get support when needed: If you’re facing challenges or feeling stressed about maintaining your milk supply, don’t hesitate to contact a lactation professional. Sometimes, just talking through your concerns with an expert can help relieve stress and give you a plan to stay on track.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding and pumping during the holidays may take a little extra planning, but with these tips, you can maintain your routine and enjoy the festivities without stress. Remember, the holidays are a time to make beautiful memories with your baby and family, and with the right approach, you can do so while ensuring your milk supply stays strong and your baby stays happy.
We are wishing you and your family a joyful and stress-free holiday season!
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