New Year’s Resolutions for Breastfeeding Mothers

By Nicole Kekesi, Virtua Board-Certified Lactation Consultant

It is that wonderful time of year! Holidays, family time, gatherings with friends, and making New Year’s resolutions!

Many people make resolutions to better themselves. Some make resolutions to aid others. For a new mother who is breastfeeding, the new year presents an opportunity to do both.

As you prepare for the upcoming year, I invite you to celebrate yourself and your new baby while making realistic goals for the months ahead. Take a look at these tried-and-true recommendations.

1. Revise your to-do list. The laundry can wait and the dust bunnies aren’t going anywhere, so take some time to rest when the baby is resting and stop feeling the need to do something. Exhaustion is common among new moms, so prioritize your wellbeing over nonessential chores and errands.

2. If someone offers to help, take it. Whether it be preparing a meal, cleaning the kitchen, or sorting the mail, do not be too proud to say yes. Raising a baby takes a village; remember support is key.

3. Get help if you need help with breastfeeding. Reach out to a support group, a hotline, or lactation consultant. Asking for help does not make you a failure.

4. Tend to your needs. Find time to eat quality meals and drink lots of water. A run-down mother is no good to anyone.

5. Trust yourself and your mothering instincts. If it seems everyone wants to offer you a million pieces of advice, remember that you know your baby best.

6. Be confident in your ability to breastfeed. Follow your baby’s cues and trust yourself to meet his or her needs.

7. Enjoy this time. Be present. Babies grow fast; try not to let little things get you down or stressed.

Happy New Year!

Updated April 19, 2018