The busiest time of the year is approaching, and you'll likely be traveling, seeing family, and hopefully doing a little partying and relaxing, too. All this poses some complications for your breastfeeding habits. What will you wear to the holiday party so that you can breastfeed easily? Can you have a glass of wine? How to field those meddlesome breastfeeding comments from your family members? We've got answers and suggestions for you here.

Muslims are currently observing Ramadan, period of devotion and sacrifice that includes fasting. Each year at this time and around the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur (which also calls for fasting), questions arise about whether it is safe and/or necessary for a pregnant or nursing women to observe religious fasts.

Religious leaders often propose different interpretations of the law, which can confuse a mother. And ultimately, some women - regardless of whether they are offered an exception to the rule or not - feel spiritually and morally drawn to partake in fasting.

So what should a breastfeeding mom know before she decides to fast?

1. Your milk supply may drop especially if you are also abstaining from liquids. This may be temporary, but to ensure you have enough milk on hand for your nursing baby, prepare bottles of expressed milk in the days before you begin your fast.
2. Your baby may nurse as usual for the day of your fast (without needing supplemental bottles) but could then need to breastfeed more the following day so be prepared to meet his needs.
3. Consider other medical issues. There may be serious health risks associated with fasting for moms with diabetes or other illnesses. Be sure to discuss those with your doctor and religious leader.

   A final note, too, is to remember to take care of yourself. Fasting can cause fatigue and dizziness. Add that to a lack of sleep common among parents of babies, and it may make for a draining day. Rest when you need to and, if necessary, have someone help you with the baby on the day of your fast. This way, you can share the blessing of a child as well as your devotion.

This year's theme is "Breastfeeding: Just 10 Steps, The Baby Friendly Way". It's a fantastic message, and in case you're wondering what the "10 Steps" are, I've got it all laid out for you...

Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding

In addition, here is breastfeeding information from all across About.com: World Breastfeeding Week 2010

Enjoy!

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