For new mothers venturing into the lovely but overwhelming world of breastfeeding, there is one question that pops up again and again: "Do I need to give both breasts at every feed?" The response isn't quite as simple as it appears. Each baby and each mom is unique. But knowing how milk supply works and how your baby eats can help you make the appropriate choice for your breastfeeding experience. We spoke to our expert, Dr Sampath Kumar, Paediatrician, Kinder Hospital - Bengaluru, and asked him the same. Read ahead to know what he shared with us.
How Breastfeeding Works: Foremilk and Hindmilk
Each breast makes milk that changes composition throughout a single feeding. The initial milk, referred to as foremilk, is thinner and more watery. Toward the end of the feeding, hindmilk, which contains more fat and calories, makes your baby feel satisfied and gain weight.
Switching too soon may result in your baby receiving more foremilk and less of the nutrient-rich hindmilk. This can cause gas or an upset stomach in some babies. That's why so many lactation consultants suggest letting your baby completely drain one breast before offering the other.
Also Read: Is It Ok To Skip Night Feeds If Baby Sleeps? Find Out Here
When to Offer Both Breasts?
Dr Sampat pointed out that you may want to switch if:
- Your baby remains hungry after emptying one breast.
- If your little one finishes one side and still seems eager, it’s totally okay and encouraged to offer the second breast.
- You’re trying to boost milk supply.
- Offering both breasts during each session can stimulate higher milk production, especially in the early weeks.
- Your baby tends to fall asleep quickly.
- Some babies need encouragement to feed longer. Switching sides can help reawaken interest in feeding.
When Is One Breast Per Session Enough?
Some infants are proficient at eating and receive the full amount of nourishment from a single side. If:
- Your baby eats for the full 15 to 20 minutes, appears content, and puts on weight appropriately.
- You don't feel any engorgement or tenderness in the unused breast.
- Your baby has frequent wet and dirty diapers.
Then it can be perfectly okay to limit each feeding to a single breast, bonus points, too, since it allows your baby time to get that wonderful hindmilk.
Tips for Equalising Both Breasts All Day
Even if you don't alternate with each feed, changing which breast you begin with is essential to prevent engorgement and ensure equal milk supply. Some ways to stay on top of it:
- Wear a nursing bracelet or hair tie to recall your most recent side.
- Experiment with a feeding app to track sessions and sides utilised.
Bottomline
There is no hard-and-fast rule about breastfeeding from one or both breasts per session. It is up to your baby's hunger cues, your milk supply, and your comfort. Follow your baby's hunger cues, and if in doubt, seek advice from a lactation consultant for individualised advice.