What to Do if Your Baby Prefers One Breast Over the Other

Breastfeeding can present a variety of challenges, and one common hiccup some parents face is when their baby prefers one breast over the other. You may notice that your baby latches eagerly on one side while turning away from the other. This can be puzzling and even discouraging, but it's a common scenario that many moms encounter on their breastfeeding journey. Understanding why this happens and knowing how to address it is important for maintaining a balanced feeding routine and ensuring that both you and your baby enjoy a fulfilling breastfeeding experience.

Balancing breastfeeding is about nourishment, comfort, and connection. When your baby shows a preference for one side, it might lead to issues like uneven milk production or discomfort due to engorgement. These are real concerns, but there are practical steps you can take to encourage your baby to feed evenly from both breasts. By balancing feedings, you'll be supporting uniform milk production and making sure both sides remain comfortable and healthy.

Why Babies Prefer One Breast

Understanding why your baby favors one side involves looking at factors that could be influencing this behavior. Here are some reasons that might explain their choice:

Comfort and Convenience: Sometimes, the way you or your baby are positioned makes one side more comfortable. Perhaps one position offers your baby a better angle for feeding or aligns with their natural preference for turning to a certain side.

Milk Flow Differences: The milk flow from each breast can vary. One side might have a faster or slower flow that matches your baby's preference. A faster flow may overwhelm some babies, while a slower flow might frustrate others.

Breast or Nipple Characteristics: Differences in the shape or size of your nipples may affect your baby's latch. A shallower nipple on one side may not provide the same ease of feeding as a deeper one on the other.

Understanding these reasons helps in tackling the issue strategically. If milk flow is the reason, starting with the less favored breast when your baby is hungrier might be helpful. On the other hand, adjusting your feeding position could ease discomfort for you and your baby. Addressing these potential causes could resolve the preference and prevent future breastfeeding struggles, making the experience more enjoyable for both of you.

Simple Adjustments to Encourage Both Breasts

If you're facing this challenge, there are simple adjustments you can try to make both breasts equally appealing:

1. Switch Starting Sides: Begin each feeding session with the less preferred breast. Your baby is usually hungrier at the beginning, so they might be more willing to latch on.

2. Experiment with Positions: Try different breastfeeding positions to see if one side becomes easier for your baby. Sometimes a slight change in how you're holding your baby can make a big difference.

3. Encourage Let-Down: If one breast produces milk slowly, stimulating a let-down before offering it to your baby can help. This can be done by gently massaging the breast or using a warm compress before feeding.

4. Adjust Feeding Routine: Offer the preferred side after the less favored one has been used for a while. Gradually, your baby might begin to accept both sides equally.

Employing these strategies can bring about a balance that enhances milk supply, supports your comfort, and satisfies your baby. Seeking guidance from a lactation expert can provide you with personalized advice tailored to your situation. Every baby is different, and a little patience can go a long way in addressing breastfeeding preferences.

When to Seek Help from an IBCLC Lactation Consultant

Sometimes, no matter how many adjustments you try, your baby might still show a strong preference for one side. That's when seeking the expertise of an IBCLC Lactation Consultant can be beneficial. These certified professionals possess the skills and experience to offer personalized guidance and troubleshooting strategies tailored to your breastfeeding needs.

Some scenarios when reaching out for professional help is the best course of action include:

- If you experience significant discomfort or pain during feedings, as this might indicate a latching issue or other breastfeeding challenges.

- When there's a notable difference in milk production between your breasts, leading to uneven engorgement or insufficient milk supply.

- If your baby is not gaining weight as expected or if you notice other signs of feeding difficulties, such as fussiness or constant hunger after feedings.

An IBCLC Lactation Consultant can assess your situation, provide hands-on adjustments, and share tips on improving your baby's latch and feeding experience. Their insights can help you deal with persistent issues and support a more balanced and comfortable breastfeeding journey.

Ongoing Tips for Balanced Breastfeeding

Establishing a balanced breastfeeding routine often requires ongoing effort and monitoring. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind as you continue this journey:

1. Alternate Starting Sides: By alternating which breast you start with, you're allowing both sides to be equally stimulated and reducing the risk of engorgement or uneven milk supply.

2. Pay Attention To Your Comfort: Make sure you're comfortable during each feeding session. Adjust pillows, positions, and your baby’s alignment to reduce strain on your body.

3. Use Breast Pumps: To encourage equal milk production, consider using a breast pump. Pumping on the less favored side can signal your body to produce more milk there, potentially balancing milk flow.

4. Stay Observant: Keep an eye on your baby's feeding cues and the condition of your breasts. Any sudden changes might require a reassessment of your routine or additional support.

Integrating these tips can help maintain balanced breastfeeding, offering both you and your baby a satisfying and efficient feeding experience. Each feeding session becomes an opportunity to nurture not just with breast milk but with warmth and reassurance.

Finding Help and Support

As you embrace your breastfeeding journey, remember that support is available. Dealing with a baby's breast preference might feel challenging at times, but with the right strategies and assistance, you can overcome these challenges. Building a support network, whether through family, friends, or professional support like an IBCLC Lactation Consultant, can ease your process.

Keep in mind that every baby is unique, and what's important is finding what works best for both you and your little one. With patience and effort, you can ensure a healthy feeding routine that strengthens the bond between you and your baby while providing the nutrition they need to thrive.

Having the right support can make all the difference in your breastfeeding experience. If you're struggling with your baby's breast preference, consider reaching out to Little Sprout Lactation Care for guidance from an experienced IBCLC lactation consultant. Our team is dedicated to offering personalized advice tailored to you and your baby, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable breastfeeding journey.