Surviving the Holidays: Understanding and Preventing Holiday Mastitis

Hey there, mumma! The holiday season is such a joyous time, but let’s talk about something that might not be on your festive radar: Holiday Mastitis. Wait, what’s that? Well, ever noticed how the holidays bring a flood of activities, people, and hustle-bustle? It turns out, this flurry can impact breastfeeding in unexpected ways. Stay with me, and I’ll unpack why this season requires a bit of extra attention to ensure smooth breastfeeding during the festivities. In this post, I’ll cover what you need to know about Holiday Mastitis, offering insights, symptoms to watch for, and practical tips to navigate this joyful yet challenging time. From understanding how festive gatherings can disrupt feeds to recognising the symptoms of mastitis and crucial self-care tips, this article is your go-to guide for steering clear of holiday mastitis blues.

Extended Family, Extended Cuddles: The Risks

As we dive into the festive season, those extended cuddles away from you can disrupt feeding sessions. Missed feeds can lead to localised breast inflammation (previously called blocked ducts), mastitis, or a dip in milk supply. Be mindful of these longer cuddle sessions and make sure your baby’s feeding pattern isn’t compromised.

Recognising the Symptoms of Mastitis

Mastitis doesn’t always knock on your door with a clear label. Look out for symptoms like breast tenderness, redness, flu-like symptoms, fever, fast heart rate and a hard, painful area on your breast. Quick recognition is key to treating mastitis quickly!

Remember, prevention is better than cure! For tips on how to treat mastitis, check out this blog post.

Follow Baby’s Cues

The holidays can be a whirlwind of gatherings, and it’s tempting to pass your little one around for cuddles. But remember, baby’s cues are your compass! If they’re showing signs of hunger or discomfort, it’s okay to take them back. Keeping tuned in to those feeding cues is key to avoiding localised breast inflammation or mastitis.

Protect Yours (And Baby’s) Boundaries

It’s OK Not to Pass Baby Around If You Don’t Want To! Yes, those relatives and friends are eager to snuggle your precious bundle, but it’s absolutely okay to set boundaries. If you’re not comfortable with extended cuddle sessions away from you, speak up. Your baby’s health and your comfort matter most. Lots of mums find it helpful to pop baby in a carrier or sling to keep them snug and close. This often helps to avoid cuddle requests and the awkward “no thanks” that follows.

Prioritise Rest

The holidays often mean bustling around, but don’t forget to rest, mumma! Stress can slow your milk flow and make breastfeeds tricky and frustrating for baby (not to mention stress is no good for your overall well-being!). Sneak in times of quiet so you can rest, grab a power nap when you can, or ask for help so you can recharge.

Handling Unsolicited Advice and Criticism

Criticism can come from all directions, especially during this busy time. Remember, you’re doing an incredible job. Don’t let anyone else’s opinions make you think otherwise! But if you’re facing criticism, check out my post on coping strategies for dealing with it. You’re not alone and knowing how to navigate these situations can be a game-changer.

The holiday season is a blend of joy and chaos, especially for new mums. Understanding the potential risks of holiday mastitis and taking proactive steps can make a significant difference. Remember to follow your baby’s cues, respect your boundaries, prioritise rest, and put your shields up to ward off any criticism. Stay vigilant about the signs of mastitis, and if you suspect it, get help from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) quickly.

Got any thoughts or insights from this post? Head over to Instagram and send me a DM! I’d love to hear what resonated with you or if you have any questions. Your feedback matters, and I’m here to support you on this incredible journey of motherhood.

Take care, mumma. Have an amazing festive season with your beautiful family! 🎄🎅🏻🎁