One of the common concerns I hear from parents is, “My baby prefers only one breast!” This is a frequent issue that can arise at any stage of breastfeeding. While it might seem frustrating, understanding why this happens and how to address it can help ensure a smooth and balanced breastfeeding journey.
Why Does Baby Prefer One Side?
Several factors can contribute to a baby favouring one breast over the other:
- They Prefer to Feed on This Side: Some babies naturally develop a preference for one breast, whether due to milk flow, comfort, or habit.
- There May Be a Physical Cause: Your baby might have a physical discomfort preventing them from latching onto one side. This can happen if they have a sore head after a difficult birth or a tight neck (torticollis), which makes turning to one side more challenging.
- Faster Milk Flow: One breast may have a faster or slower let-down reflex, making it more comfortable for the baby to feed on.
- Positioning Comfort: Some babies have a preferred head-turning position due to birth experiences or mild neck stiffness.
- Milk Supply Differences: If one breast naturally produces more milk, the baby may favour it for a fuller and more satisfying feed.
- Ear or Neck Discomfort: Ear infections or muscle tightness can make it uncomfortable for the baby to nurse on one side.
- Stronger Sucking Reflex: Some babies have a stronger sucking preference for one side due to oral development.
- Previous Negative Experience: A baby may associate one breast with frustration if past attempts resulted in difficulty latching or a slower flow.
Should I Be Concerned?
In most cases, a one-sided preference is not a major issue as long as the baby is gaining weight and your milk supply remains sufficient. However, prolonged feeding from only one breast can lead to:
- Uneven breast size due to increased stimulation on one side
- Potential engorgement or reduced supply in the less-preferred breast
- Discomfort or clogged ducts in the less-used breast
This is a common breastfeeding issue and is often easily resolved with advice and support from a Lactation consultant (IBCLC). Consulting a lactation consultant can help address the underlying cause and ensure your baby feeds effectively on both sides.
How to Encourage Feeding on Both Sides
If your baby strongly favour’s one breast, here are some strategies to encourage balanced feeding:
- Offer the Less-Preferred Breast First – Babies tend to nurse more eagerly at the beginning of a feed when they are hungry, increasing the chances of them accepting the less-preferred side.
- Try Different Positions – Adjusting the baby’s position (such as the football hold or laid-back breastfeeding) can make the less-preferred side more comfortable.
- Switch Nursing – Offer one breast for a few minutes, then switch to the other before the baby gets too used to one side.
- Encourage a Good Let-Down – Massage or hand express milk from the less-favoured breast before offering it, making it more appealing for the baby.
- Use Skin-to-Skin Contact – Holding your baby close without pressure to breastfeed can help them feel more relaxed about trying the other side.
- Address Any Physical Issues – If you suspect discomfort from torticollis or an ear infection, consult a paediatrician or Lactation consultant.
- Pump the Less-Used Breast – If your baby refuses one breast entirely, pumping can maintain milk supply and prevent engorgement.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your baby persistently refuses one breast despite trying different strategies, or if you experience persistent pain, low milk supply, or blocked ducts, seeking guidance from a lactation consultant can be helpful.
Remember, breastfeeding is a dynamic process, and minor imbalances are completely normal. With patience and adjustments, most babies eventually nurse from both sides or adapt to a single-sided preference without issues. Every breastfeeding journey is unique, and your body is designed to nourish your baby in the way that works best for both of you.
If you’re facing challenges with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out for lactation consultation with lactation consultant. A little guidance can make a big difference in creating a comfortable and rewarding experience for you and your baby! If you delivered at Motherhood or Cloudnine, but need more tailored support, consider scheduling a private lactation consultation in Bangalore with www.latchelp.com or whatsapp 7708357594. I do offer home visits and virtual sessions for added convenience.