5 Tips for Surviving the Holidays with a Newborn
Doula Barb, here! My firstborn was a November baby and let me tell you- that first holiday season was the learning curve of all learning curves for us.
NEW BABY + NEW MAMA HORMONES + TROUBLE BREASTFEEDING = ONE TIRED MOTHER (& BABY)
But we got through it and looking back now, I have 5 Tips for Surviving the Holidays with a Newborn
1. Remember it's okay to say no.
This can be so hard, especially during this time of the year when we strive so hard to make things perfect. Things can still be magical without all the extra fuss. So yes, it's perfectly acceptable to turn down invitations to holiday gatherings (yes, even from family) and stay home with YOUR new family, this year.
2. Remember it's also okay to say yes.
Did your friends just ask if you needed anything before coming to visit you and the new baby?? Say YES! Tell them you are in desperate need of your favorite meal from your favorite restaurant. You wouldn't hesitate to bring your friend dinner, so let them do it for YOU!
3. Wear the Baby
Strangers and even well-meaning loved ones have a tendency to get a little handsy with new babies. Having baby nice and close to your body drastically reduces the "little peeks" and makes it harder to expose your newborn to their germs, as well. You'll also have a calmer baby on your hands, which is always a win!
4. Slow Down
Take a breather. Even better, take a nap! We tend to be in all-or-nothing mode the closer we get to the holidays so take this as your official permission to take a deep breath. Go ahead, we'll wait.... there. Isn't that better? Now, tune into your body and listen to what it's telling you- is your bottom sore? Rest. Has your lochia (postpartum bleeding) changed? That could be your body telling you you're doing too much, too soon. Get off your feet for a while and let your body rest. You've done hard work!
5. Plan Ahead
Are you breast/chest/body feeding? Make sure to have a quiet, distraction-free area you can go if you're needing some privacy as you and baby continue to figure things out together. Exclusively Pumping? Ask your host for a private space and give yourself plenty of time to pump- and stick to your schedule to avoid holiday mastitis! Formula feeding? Plan ahead by making sure you have all the supplies you'll need while you're away (bottles, formula, nipples, etc.). Pack the diaper bag the night before your trip. Bring lots of wipes and extra clothes, because babies love blowouts, especially when you're away from home.