Breastfeeding is the most natural and beneficial way to nourish babies. However, it is common for mothers to face challenges during this intimate bonding experience. One such obstacle is breast preference, or when a baby prefers to breastfeed on one breast over the other.
While this can be frustrating and confusing for new mothers, it is important to understand that it is a common issue that can be resolved with patience and confidence.
In this article, we aim to provide you with valuable insights on what to do when your baby shows a preference for one breast over the other. We will delve into the reasons why your baby might have a preference, how to determine if your baby is getting enough milk, and strategies to encourage feeding from the less preferred breast.
Is Breast Preference Common Among Newborns
Is breast preference common among newborns? Absolutely!
It’s not uncommon for a baby to prefer one breast over the other, and it usually has nothing to do with the milk supply. This baby prefers one breast phenomenon can happen for a variety of reasons, such as a change in milk flow or supply, a stronger letdown on one side, or even how you hold your baby during feeding.
It’s important to remember that this is a normal part of breastfeeding, and there are ways to work around it if it’s causing discomfort or affecting milk production.
Causes of Breast Preference
Breast preference is not uncommon among babies, and many mothers experience their little ones preferring to breastfeed on one breast over the other. It may be frustrating for some mothers, especially if the baby’s preference leads to engorgement, discomfort, or uneven milk production.
Some babies may prefer one breast because of a faster letdown, more milk flow, or their preferred position during feeding. Others may have a physical preference towards the shape or size of one breast over the other.
Regardless of the cause, there are things mothers can do to manage breast preference and ensure their babies are getting enough milk during breastfeeding.
Image Source: iStock
Negative Effects of the Baby Latching Only on One Breast
Sometimes, despite our best efforts to encourage equal use of both breasts, our little ones develop a preference for one over the other.
Breast preference in breastfeeding can cause engorged breasts or mastitis due to uneven milk supply. If a baby consistently favours one breast over the other, the other breast may become engorged and uncomfortable, leading to a blocked milk duct and increasing the risk of mastitis. Additionally, if the milk is not emptied regularly, it can lead to reduced milk production and a decrease in the overall milk supply.
Also, if your baby prefers one breast, they may not be getting enough hindmilk (the fatty, calorie-rich milk that comes after the letdown) which can lead to gassiness, fussiness, or even colic. It’s important to address the issue of breastfeeding on one breast as soon as possible to avoid more issues down the line.
5 Tips for Combating Breast Preference in Breastfeeding Babies
Here are some tips to help combat breast preference and make breastfeeding a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for you and your baby:
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Switch Sides Frequently During Feeding Sessions
One of the simplest ways to encourage your baby to nurse on both breasts is to switch sides frequently during each feeding session. Start on one breast and then switch to the other side halfway through the feeding. This way, your baby gets equal time on both sides and helps stimulate milk production on both breasts.
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Offer the Less Preferred Breast First
If your baby has a strong preference for one breast, try offering the less preferred breast first during one feeding session and then the more favoured breast the next time. This way, your baby will be more willing to nurse on the less preferred breast when they are hungrier.
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Pump on the Less Preferred Side After Feedings
If your baby is consistently refusing one breast, try pumping on the less preferred side after feedings to stimulate milk production and establish a more even milk supply. This can also help relieve engorgement and reduce discomfort.
Image Source: iStock
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Use Different Breastfeeding Positions
Sometimes changing up the breastfeeding positions can help encourage your baby to nurse on both breasts. Try different positions such as cradle hold, football hold, or side-lying position. This can make nursing more comfortable for both you and your baby and encourage them to nurse on both breasts.
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Patience and Persistence
Remember that it takes patience and time to establish a more even milk supply and combat breast preference. Don’t give up! Keep experimenting with different positions and strategies until you find what works best for you and your baby.
It can be a frustrating and confusing experience when your baby consistently prefers one breast over the other. However, there are several techniques that mothers can try to encourage their babies to breastfeed on the other side.
It’s important to remember that every baby is different and may have a preference for one side or the other. But with patience, persistence, and the right support, mothers can successfully breastfeed their babies on both sides and ensure they receive the nourishment they need for healthy development.
Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it’s important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn’t serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.
