Are you pregnant or breastfeeding, and wondering how you’re going to survive Christmas parties and lunches? Here are ten tips for surviving Christmas when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
Christmas; a time of celebrations, parties and quite often dancing till dawn. But what about when you’re pregnant or are a breastfeeding mum?
While it won’t be exactly the same this year, being pregnant doesn’t mean you have to sit at home each night with a box set, in your maternity loungewear (unless you want to, of course). And likewise, breastfeeding doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the festive fun.
While it’s true that alcohol and some food might be off the menu, and you might be a little bit more tired, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy yourself if you want to. If it’s your first baby especially, it’s a great opportunity to get out and about before it all changes.
So here are ten tips for Christmas when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding:
One: If you’re at the early stages of pregnancy and not quite ready to tell the world, going to drinks and parties might be a bit tricky, especially if you’re usually the first to get around in. Try the lemonade in a wine glass trick, or make sure you go to the bar to get your own drink. Or alternatively, tell people you’re already hungover – it’s entirely plausible. You can also read our guide to keeping your early pregnancy a secret from your eagle-eyed friends, to deflect the attention from you – for a while.
Two: A bump doesn’t mean you have to wear something frumpy and unflattering. Buy a dress that makes you feel really good, and is comfortable, too. Go for a fairly simple one that you can wear with different accessories.
Three: If you’re breastfeeding, you might also be struggling with your wardrobe. Try glam separates instead of a dress – with a top you can lift up to feed.
Four: While you might have a wonderful pregnancy glow, you might also be feeling sick and frumpy. Get your hair or nails done, take as long as you like on your make-up – do whatever might make you feel a bit better.
Five: And if you’re worried about being exhausted, try and have a nap beforehand.
Six: Once you’re in party-mode, don’t think you have to stick to lemonade or water all night. There are lots of non-alcoholic alternatives that taste great too, from mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) through to brands like Seedlip. Try fizzy elderflower, Shloer and also non-alcoholic versions of your usual favorites which will taste the same. If you’re breastfeeding, you can enjoy a drink or two.
Seven: Make sure you’re aware of what you can and can’t eat when you’re pregnant (and check party food like canapés are OK). There will still be loads you can tuck into though, just make sure meat is well-cooked or stick to vegetarian options.
Eight: And don’t skip the cheese board. While most soft cheese is a no, you can eat pasteurized hard cheese, even stilton and also baked cheese like runny Camembert as long as it’s piping hot and cooked through.
Nine: If you’re attending a party with a free bar, try to leave before the booze kicks in (probably around 9 pm). And pregnancy is a perfect excuse to leave at any time if you’re tired or just bored and want to go home.
Ten: It’s different…but think of the positives: Alcohol is off the menu during pregnancy, but you won’t wake up with a hangover.
Source: http://bit.do/eCMQx
Photo(s) credit: freepik.com
