Why Does My Baby Prefer One Breast Over the Other?

TL;DR: The blog discusses why some babies prefer one breast over the other during breastfeeding, a common occurrence often termed “one-sided feeding.”

• Milk Volume and Flow: Differences in milk production can cause a preference.
• Comfort and Ease: Physical comfort from certain breastfeeding positions influences preference.
• Latching Issues: Problems with latching on one side can lead to dependence on the other.
• Injury or Surgery: Past surgeries or injuries can affect breastfeeding dynamics and cause a preference for one breast.
• Managing Preferences: Suggestions include experimenting with different positions, starting when baby is hungriest, and managing engorgement.

Have you noticed your little one favoring one side when you breastfeed?

While this may feel like a concern, it’s actually very common for baby to prefer one breast over the other. And more often than not, it’s ok if baby only feeds on one side!

Whether this preference has been present from the start or has suddenly emerged, we’re here to help you understand why your baby is choosing one breast over the other during feedings.

Breast Preference in Babies

Again, it’s important to explain that it’s ok if your baby only feeds on one side. In fact, it’s so common that it’s referred to as “one-sided feeding”.

Some babies do this by choice and for other families this may be a necessity. As La Leche League explains, many mothers nurse their babies on one side only. Since breast milk production is based on supply and demand, each breast should produce enough milk if the demand is there.

There are a few reasons why your baby prefers one breast over the other:

Milk Volume and Flow

Speaking to Parents Magazine, board-certified lactation consultant Jocelyn Bermudez explains that it’s common for one breast to be an overproducer and the other to have a lower production. She even calls this the “slacker boob phenomenon”.

If you pump, you might notice one breast produces more ounces of milk than the other. In some cases, you might even see or feel that one breast is bigger than the other. Breastfed babies notice the difference in milk supply and flow and show a preference for the side that provides more supply.

This can lead to a cycle where one breast becomes more stimulated and continues to produce more milk.

Comfort and Ease

Some babies are simply more comfortable feeding from one breast.

This could be related to how the baby is held during feeding or the mother’s natural breast shape and size. Some babies might find it easier to latch onto one breast because of how they’re cradled for feeding on that particular side.

Latching Issues

If you notice baby refusing one breast and only using the other, they may be having trouble latching.

If a baby struggles to latch on one side they will rely more on the other. They might have trouble latching due to the mother’s nipple shape or their positioning. For example, flat or inverted nipples on one breast can make it difficult for baby to get a good latch.

Injury or Surgery

Past injuries or surgeries can also affect breastfeeding dynamics. Surgeries like breast reduction, augmentation, or biopsies can alter the breast tissue, potentially impacting milk production and flow. Scarring or changes in the breast’s sensitivity might make feeding uncomfortable for the mother, which can inadvertently cause a baby to prefer the opposite breast.

Similarly, any pain or sensitivity post-surgery might make certain feeding positions painful, prompting the mother to offer the other breast more frequently.

What Happens if You Breastfeed from One Side?

One-sided feeding isn’t always a cause for concern, but it can be uncomfortable. If you breastfeed from one side only you might experience:

Engorgement: When a baby predominantly feeds from one breast, the other may become engorged with milk. Engorgement can make the breast hard and swollen, causing discomfort and making it difficult for the baby to latch effectively.

Milk Supply Issues: Feeding from one breast can lead to decreased milk production in the underutilized breast.

Emotional Impact: If baby refuses one breast it may be frustrating or worrying for new moms. You might be worried if baby is getting enough milk or stressed about the appearance of your breasts.

It’s important for mothers to recognize these feelings and seek support or help from a lactation consultant. Breast preference is a common issue and manageable with the right approaches.

What to Do When Baby Prefers One Breast

If you want to encourage your baby to feed from both breasts, there are a few things you can try.

Position Changes

• Experiment with Different Breastfeeding Positions: Sometimes, simply changing the way you hold your baby can make a difference. Try various breastfeeding positions to find one that may make the less preferred side more comfortable for your baby.
• Mirror the Preferred Side: If your baby prefers one side, mirror the position on the other side. For instance, if your baby likes the football hold on the right, try the same hold on the left to provide a similar angle and comfort.

Pacing the Feed

• Start When Baby is Hungriest: Begin feeding sessions on the less preferred breast when your baby is most hungry and eager to feed.
  Quick Switch: If the baby starts to get fussy on the less preferred side, switch to the preferred side for a few minutes, then switch back. This can help keep them calm and gradually increase their comfort level with the less preferred breast.

Stay Comfortable

• Breast Massage: Gently massaging the less preferred breast can stimulate milk flow and make it easier for your baby to feed.
• Apply Warmth: Before feeding, apply a warm compress to the less preferred breast to help milk flow more freely.

Managing Engorgement

Breastfeeding should be a comfortable experience for you and your little one. If baby still prefers one breast, taking steps to handle engorgement can help you feel more comfortable.

• Manually express milk or pump from the underused side to relieve engorgement and maintain supply.
• Use a cold compress after feeding or pumping.
• Keep a regular pumping schedule for the less preferred breast to help maintain an even milk supply.

Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique. Some new moms and babies might adopt the practice of one-sided feeding while others prefer a more balanced approach. All that matters is that baby is fed.

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