6 reasons babies are breastfed only

For some young children, babies only like to suck on one side of their mother's breast even though the mother does everything she can to make her suck on both sides. 

Most mothers feel that one breast is full of milk or bigger than the other, leading to when breastfeeding, babies only like to suck on this breast. However, you shouldn't worry too much as this is normal. There are 6 reasons that lead to a baby suckling on only one breast. Let's take a look at what they are.

6 reasons you are breast-feeding on one breast

Sometimes with the kids, especially babies often prefer one breast feeding mothers than the other. There are a number of reasons:

1. The structure is different between the two breasts

It is normal for women to have a milk gland that is performing better in one breast than the other. Babies often do not like to breastfeed on the breast with a receding nipple or the nipple size does not fit the mouth, making it difficult for them to suck.

2. Your child's interests

I like to suck on one breast because that position can make him comfortable. This is only for a short period of time due to a number of reasons such as an ear infection or the recent vaccination. However, this situation will change as the baby gets well.

3. Mom's preferences

Sometimes, you have a tendency to accidentally breastfeed on one side of the other. If you have just had a baby for the first time, you may not know how to breastfeed properly and often support the baby with your dominant hand when breastfeeding. Therefore, the baby will be fed on one breast.

4. Injury or surgery

If there is surgery or injury to one breast, this can significantly affect milk production in that breast. Therefore, the mother will usually breastfeed the other side.

5. Inflammation of the mammary gland

If you have unilateral mastitis , your baby will not like to breastfeed from that breast. The reason for this is that milk has an unusual taste like a salty taste because it provides less sodium.

6. Stiff neck

If your baby has a stiff neck caused by trauma during birth, he or she will have difficulty feeding from one breast. At this point, it is important that you find ways quickly to ensure your child is not malnourished.

What can you do to help your baby suck on both breasts?

Unilateral breastfeeding can bring you some problems. Therefore, there are a few simple steps you can take to help your baby suck on both breasts:

During each feed, breastfeed your baby on the breast with little or no milk first because at first the baby's suckling power will be stronger, so it will stimulate more milk production. This tip should be used as soon as your baby is awake, sleepy or hungry.

Breastfeeding in different positions or rocking your baby gently while feeding with your baby is less likely to make him feel comfortable.

Frequent breastfeeding with your baby is less likely to increase breast milk production.

You can pump less milk from the breast and store it in the refrigerator, then use it to feed your baby when your baby is hungry.

Absorb too much milk in both breasts before feeding to avoid excessive secretion, baby must swallow quickly.

What if the baby refuses to suck from the other breast?

Some babies refuse to breastfeed on one breast for no reason at all. If your kid is one of them, don't worry because it doesn't do any harm. There are many mothers who are successful at breastfeeding with just one breast. You don't need to worry about your breasts being unbalanced when your baby weaned.