Though breastfeeding is a natural experience for many mothers, it can also come with some challenges. One common issue is when one breast produces less milk than the other. This can be concerning, especially if you're worried about whether your baby is getting enough to eat. But don't worry, we'll look at why this happens, share ways to increase milk supply on the lower-producing side, and provide tips for balancing milk production in both breasts in this blog post.
Less Milk Production in One Breast: Is It Normal?
Yes, it is normal for one breast to produce less milk than the other during the breastfeeding journey. While some mothers may worry about their baby's intake or their overall milk supply, imbalances in milk production are often common. Many women find themselves in a situation where one breast appears to produce noticeably more milk than the other. This fluctuation can happen for a number of reasons and doesn't always mean that a mother's capacity to nurse her child or breastfeed is compromised. Because the human body is so intricate, a multitude of factors, including variations in feeding patterns, hormone fluctuations, and even the physical structure of the breasts, can affect the production of milk.
Why Does One Breast Produce Less Milk?
So what could be the reasons that one breast produces less milk for mothers? See the below points to find out.
Feeding Patterns
If your baby shows a preference for one breast, this can lead to increased milk production on that side while the other side produces less. Babies naturally tend to favor one side, especially if they find it easier to latch or if the flow of milk is more favorable.
Anatomical Differences
Some women may produce less milk than others due to physical differences in their nipples or breasts. For example, variations in milk output may result from one breast having more glandular tissue than the other.
Blocked Ducts
Reduced milk production from one breast may be due to blocked milk ducts, which inhibit the flow of milk. Localized discomfort, swelling, and occasionally redness in the affected area are among the symptoms.
Hormonal Factors
A major factor in the production of milk is hormones. The amount of milk each breast produces can vary depending on changes in hormone levels, which can be brought on by stress, menstrual cycles, or other factors.
Pumping Patterns
Reduced milk production on one side may result from only pumping from that breast over time. A sufficient milk supply must be maintained through regular stimulation. To help with this, you might try the Momcozy M9 breast pump with a powerful suction of up to -300 mmHg. It can effectively stimulate your milk production and help balance the milk supply between your breasts.
Previous Surgeries
Women who have undergone breast surgeries, such as reductions or augmentations, may experience differences in milk production due to altered glandular tissue.
How to Increase Milk Supply on One Breast?
No matter the reason that one breast producing less milk than the other, there are several strategies you can try to help boost the milk supply on that side.
Frequent Nursing
You can encourage your baby to nurse more often on the side that produces less milk. When your baby is most hungry during feeding sessions, try to offer that breast first because they will probably suck harder.
Apply Breast Pump
It can also be advantageous to express milk from the less productive breast using a breast pump. To further encourage milk flow, think about pumping on the side that produces less milk following nursing sessions. Regular pumping can send signals to your body to produce more milk.
Warm Compresses
Before breastfeeding or pumping, applying warm compresses can aid to enhance milk flow and facilitate let-down. The heat helps the breast tissue to relax, which facilitates the release of milk.
Massage
Better milk flow can be encouraged by gently massaging the breast before and during feeding. Lightly press in circular motions around the breast with your fingertips to help loosen any obstructions and encourage milk movement.
Experiment with Different Positions
Attempting various breastfeeding positions can have a big impact on how well your baby latches on and produces milk. Try several positions, such as side-lying or the football hold, to see what works best for you and your infant.
More Tips to Balance Milk Production in Two Breasts
Consider putting the following tactics into practice to get a more balanced milk supply between both breasts:
Alternate Feeding Sides
Always alternate the breast you start feeding on during each session. Offer the breast with decreased milk production the first during each feeding. At the start of a feeding, babies typically suckle more forcefully, which can aid in increasing milk supply.
Equalize Pumping Sessions
A further efficient strategy is to balance out your pumping sessions. When using a breast pump, try to pump on both sides for equal amounts of time. This ensures that both breasts receive adequate stimulation, which can promote balanced milk production.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
For the production of milk, maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration is essential. To assist lactation, make sure you're getting adequate liquids throughout the day and eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet.
Monitor Stress Levels
Milk supply may be adversely affected by stress. Reduce anxiety and establish a calm atmosphere for nursing by engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or mild yoga.
Consult a Lactation Specialist
If you're still having trouble producing milk evenly, consulting a lactation consultant can help you receive individualized advice and assistance that is catered to your unique needs. They can evaluate your nursing style and provide more advice on how to increase milk production.
FAQs About One Breast Making Less Milk
Q: Should I Pump If the Baby Only Eats One Side?
Yes, if your baby tends to nurse primarily from one breast, pumping the less-used side can help maintain milk supply. Your body produces more milk when it receives signals from regular expressions on that side.
Q: How Can the Milk Supply in One Breast Be Increased Exclusively by Pumping?
If you're exclusively pumping, focus on regular pumping sessions every 2-3 hours. Ensure that the suction settings are comfortable and effective for you, and consider alternating sides during each session to mimic natural feeding patterns.
Q: Why Is My Baby Suddenly Refusing One Side?
There could be several reasons for a sudden refusal of one side, including changes in taste, discomfort from teething, or a preference developed over time. If this happens, try to gently reintroduce the breast your baby is refusing during calm moments, and consult a professional if the issue persists.
Take Action to Balance Milk Supply Between Breasts!
It's common for breastfeeding moms to notice that one breast produces less milk than the other, and understanding why this happens is the first step in finding a solution. Try nursing frequently, using proper pumping techniques, and keep trying out other helpful tips; you can increase milk supply on the side that's producing less. No matter whether you're just starting out or facing challenges along the breastfeeding journey, you're not alone, and there are solutions available. Also, don't forget to seek support from healthcare providers or lactation consultants, which can make all the difference!
