Babies sometimes show a preference for one breast over the other.
It's not uncommon for a baby to develop a preference for one breast during breastfeeding. This can be puzzling for parents, but according to research, there often isn’t an obvious reason why this preference occurs. The reference states, "Sometimes a baby will prefer one breast to the other and there is no obvious reason".
Possible Reasons for Breast Preference:
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Comfort: Babies might be more comfortable with the positioning they experience while feeding on one side versus the other. The reference suggests they "seem to prefer being positioned on one side than the other."
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Milk Flow: A baby might prefer the breast where the milk flows faster and more easily. The reference points out that "The refused breast may not be producing as much milk, or the milk may not be flowing as fast as the preferred breast."
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Physical Difference: There might be a slight physical difference in the nipple shape or size or the milk duct size that influences the baby's comfort and feeding efficiency on a particular side.
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Sensory Experience: A baby may simply prefer how the breast feels in their mouth.
What to Do If Your Baby Prefers One Breast
While a preference for one breast is often harmless, there are steps you can take:
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Offer the less preferred breast first. When beginning a feeding session, present the side the baby usually refuses. This allows the baby to be more willing to feed before they get too hungry and possibly less fussy.
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Try different feeding positions. Explore cradle holds, cross-cradle holds, football holds, and side-lying positions on both sides to find out if a position change makes a difference.
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Check for latch issues. A poor latch can cause discomfort, making one side less appealing than the other. Consulting a lactation consultant can be beneficial.
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Keep pumping: If your baby continues to reject one side, ensure you continue to pump that breast so that your milk supply does not decrease.
It's important to remember that every baby is different, and their preferences can change over time. Be patient, observant, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals if you have any concerns.
