Infant Feeding Through the Holidays: Preventing Mastitis and Low Milk Supply

Infant Feeding Through the Holidays: Preventing Mastitis and Low Milk Supply

The holiday season is a wonderful time for family, food, and celebration.  But, it can also bring unexpected challenges for breastfeeding parents. Long travel days, disrupted routines, skipped feedings, and stress can increase the risk of mastitis and impact milk supply. Understanding the science behind these risks can help you stay comfortable and confident while protecting your breastfeeding journey.

How the Holidays Can Affect Breastfeeding

During the holidays, schedules often become irregular. Parents may skip feedings, delay pumping, or multitask while breastfeeding, which can lead to less effective feeds and incomplete breast emptying. Research consistently shows that incomplete emptying of the breast is the most common contributor to milk stasis and mastitis.  The bottom line, if milk is left in the breast, the risk of mastitis goes up and your body thinks it doesn’t need the milk anymore resulting in a decrease in supply.

Stress, fatigue, and travel can further affect the hormones that impact that magical let-down reflex, which may temporarily reduce milk transfer to the infant.  Again, this results in….you guessed it….a decrease in overall supply. Even short periods of skipped or delayed feeds can make some parents notice a dip in milk production.

Mastitis: What It Is and Why It Happens

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue, often caused by ineffective milk removal or bacteria causing infection. Symptoms can include breast pain, redness, swelling, and flu-like symptoms. Studies suggest that milk stasis combined with stress or fatigue has the potential to significantly increases mastitis risk.

During the holidays, rapid transitions, extended travel, and irregular feeding patterns can make parents more vulnerable. Recognizing early signs and managing them promptly is crucial to prevent complications and maintain supply.

Evidence-Based Strategies to Protect Milk Supply

1. Maintain regular feeding or pumping schedules

   • Aim to feed on demand or pump on your usual, regular schedule when away from your baby. Consistent emptying prevents milk stasis and supports ongoing milk production.

2. Manage stress and fatigue

   • Simple strategies like deep breathing, short naps, or supportive helpers can reduce stress-mediated milk reduction.

3. Stay hydrated and well-nourished

   • Adequate fluids and balanced meals support lactation and recovery in every way!

4. Monitor for early signs of mastitis

   • Localized redness, tenderness, or flu-like symptoms should prompt gentle milk expression and consultation with a NP-IBCLC.  We can help with holistic strategies first and antibiotic treatment if necessary.  Did you know that most cases of mastitis are inflammatory and not bacterial?  Not all cases need antibiotics.

5. Use supportive positions and tools

   • Nursing pillows, hands-free pumping, and ergonomic seating can improve milk removal during busy holiday activities.  Even manual hand expression in a pinch is better than leaving the milk in the breast.  Know your strategies to keep the milk moving to prevent mastitis and keep your supply up.

When to Seek Help

Even with preventive strategies, mastitis or low supply can occur. Consulting a nurse practitioner/IBCLC early allows timely intervention, reduces the risk of complications, gets your milk supply back on track, and helps maintain a healthy breastfeeding relationship.

Bottom Line

The holidays don’t have to interrupt your breastfeeding journey. By planning ahead, staying mindful of your body’s cues, and reaching out to support when needed, you can protect milk supply, prevent mastitis, and enjoy the season with confidence. At Nightingale Nursing, our team of nurse practitioners and IBCLCs are here to provide guidance, support, and practical solutions to help families thrive during the busiest time of the year.