Uneven breasts don't usually cause problems. The unevenness can even be helpful because it makes it easier to remember which breast to use for the next feeding.
However, if the thought of lopsided breasts is bothersome, you can nurse on both breasts at each feeding to try to keep your breasts more balanced. If you're breastfeeding from only one breast because the other breast needs to heal or rest, you should continue to pump or hand express breast milk from that side to keep it making breast milk.
The supply of breast milk will go down in that breast if it doesn't get regular stimulation. You might breastfeed on just one side for every feeding because your child simply refuses to take the other side. It's possible to make a full, healthy supply of breast milk with only one breast, it's usually OK to breastfeed from just only one breast, and you can usually continue to use the same breast for every feeding. However, certain health conditions can change the flavor of your breast milk.
If your baby won't nurse from one side, it could actually be a sign of a health problem such as a breast infection or even cancer in that breast. It's best to call your doctor if your baby won't nurse from one breast. While it might be something minor, having a breast exam is the only way to know for sure. How you choose to breastfeed your child is up to you, though some people will have more of a choice than others.
As long as your baby is getting enough breast milk and growing at a steady rate , there is no right or wrong way to breastfeed.
During the first few weeks of breastfeeding when you're building up a milk supply , breastfeed your newborn from both breasts at each feeding if you can. The more stimulation that you can give to both breasts in the early stages of breastfeeding, the better. After you have established a healthy milk supply in about four to six weeks , do whatever is most comfortable and convenient for you and your child.
Get it free when you sign up for our newsletter. Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Elsevier Health Sciences; Riordan J, Wambach K. Breastfeeding and Human Lactation.
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At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. During the newborn phase, you need to feed your baby often, at least times in each hour period. Breastfeed as long as your baby wishes on the first breast the amount of time will vary given that every baby is different—some suck fast, others suckle very slowly. Watch for his cues of hunger or fullness. If your baby has fallen asleep, wake him gently try tickling his toes or stroking his face , burp him, and offer the second breast.
Even if his eyes remain closed, you may have some luck getting him to latch on by gently tickling his lips with your nipple. As long as your baby is getting enough breast milk and growing at a healthy, consistent pace , it doesn't matter if you nurse from one breast or both breasts at each feeding. You should choose the method that is the easiest, most comfortable, and most convenient for you and your baby.
In the first few weeks after your baby is born, it's better to breastfeed from both sides at each feeding. Breastfeeding on both sides will help to stimulate the production of breast milk while you're establishing your milk supply. It can also prevent some common problems of breastfeeding such as breast engorgement , plugged milk ducts , and mastitis.
As your baby grows, follow their lead. If they want to nurse more, let them. If they only need to nurse on one breast to feel satisfied, that's OK, too. There are definitely benefits to offering both breasts at each feeding. Besides helping to build up a healthy supply of breast milk, alternating breasts in the same feeding can keep a sleepy baby nursing longer , provide more breast milk at each feeding to a newborn who needs to gain weight, and maybe even help to keep your breasts from becoming too uneven.
Once you've established your milk supply and your baby is growing well, it may be more convenient to breastfeed from only one side at each feeding. If you have an overabundant milk supply , breastfeeding on only one side at each feeding can help reduce the milk supply in the opposite breast.
Sometimes you might not have a choice. If you have an issue on one breast and it needs a rest to heal, you have only one breast that makes breast milk, or your baby develops a breast preference and will only breastfeed from one side, you may not be able to switch breasts during each feeding, or at all. Even if you can only breastfeed from one side, it's still possible to make a healthy supply of breast milk for your child.
You can continue to breastfeed your baby from just one breast for as long as you wish to do so. As long as your baby is breastfeeding well and gaining weight, you don't have to worry about whether or not you're switching breasts at each feeding.
But if you feel that your child isn't breastfeeding well or not getting enough breast milk, seek help. Whenever you have questions or concerns about breastfeeding , reach out to your doctor, a lactation consultant , or a breastfeeding support group for information and assistance.
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