3 min read
BY MONIQUE MAITLAIND | REGISTERED MIDWIFE & CHILDBIRTH EDUCATOR | MIDDEE PODCAST
The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but for expectant mothers, they can also be a period of stress and overwhelming. Between managing pregnancy aches, figuring out what to wear, and navigating breastfeeding in public, the festive season can feel like a full-blown circus act.
Mamas! Here are some of my top tips to help you navigate the festive season with grace and ease:
1. Tips for swollen feet:
- Summer and warm weather make feet more prone to swelling. Your shoes are a tighter fit and you may not fit anything other than your havaianas or slides. But what happens if you have a wedding or an event that requires nicer footwear?
- Compression socks to the rescue. Pull on TheRY graduated compression socks for a few hours before leaving the house to reduce swelling, allowing you to slip on your favourite dancing shoes as you leave the house.
- Elevate feet. Keep your feet elevated where possible to help reduce swelling.
2. Tips for breastfeeding in public:
- Free the nip (if you're comfortable): Wear a breastfeeding-friendly outfit and embrace the freedom of feeding your baby wherever you feel comfortable.
- Muslin magic: Use a light muslin wrap for added privacy while breastfeeding, if desired.
- Embrace the flow: Be prepared for unpredictable feeding times and roll with the punches. Don't hesitate to ask for help or remove yourself to a quieter space if needed.
3. Tips for managing visitors:
- It's your baby, your rules: Don't be afraid to say no to visitors, especially if you're feeling overwhelmed.
- Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries like
- no visits without the whooping cough vaccine
- no kissing the baby, and
- no visits from anyone who is unwell.
- Prioritize yourself and your baby: You don't have to attend every single event. Listen to your body and prioritise rest and recovery.4
4. For celebrating safely:
- Non-alcoholic wines: Enjoy some festive cheer without the alcohol by bringing your own non-alcoholic wine with you.
- Hospitals are always open: Don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any concerns, regardless of the holiday.
- Breastfeeding and alcohol: Download the Feed Safe app to track alcohol clearance in your breast milk and make informed decisions about drinking.
Remember, mamas, the holidays are meant to be joyful. Take care of yourself, listen to your body, and enjoy this special time with your loved ones.
__________________________________________________________________
Monique Maitland, a passionate Registered Midwife/Nurse from Melbourne, founded The Middee Society in 2021 to address the lack of parental education in the fast-paced maternity public system. As the host of the podcast 'Middee,' Monique sheds light on taboo topics and emphasizes the highs and lows of parenthood, aiming to empower women and their support networks in a fun and informative way. Working in one of Australia's leading Obstetric hospitals, Monique focuses on educating and preparing women for parenthood, emphasizing the importance of advocating for the desired labor and birth experience.