By: Alicia Fonder of Health Haven 

Is it your baby’s first major holiday? Are you nervous about breastfeeding in front of family or friends? There are several options you can consider. 

First, breastfeeding is a natural way to feed your baby and if you feel comfortable, it’s okay to breastfeed in front of others without being covered. If that doesn’t feel right for you, there are plenty of options for cute nursing covers or special clothing that allows you to be discreet. 

Another option is asking to use a bedroom or other extra room at whoever’s house you are visiting. This also might be a good break for you and your baby to get away from the party and reconnect. If you are in a public venue, you can check to see if a Mother’s Room is available. 

If not, there may be another private room or office that you could use. If none of those options sound good to you, you could pump right before you leave home and take a fresh bottle of breastmilk along to the gathering. Then you or someone else can give the baby a bottle while you are at the holiday party or gathering. 

Depending on how long the event lasts, you might need to pump again while you are there to maintain your supply and prevent engorgement. Regardless of how comfortable you feel about breastfeeding in public, there are plenty of options to choose from to keep your baby happy, healthy and well fed during the holidays!