Will my baby get enough breastmilk if she only feeds on one side?

As with almost anything else in your body (finger size, feet size, eyesight) asymmetry is normal. For some mothers the difference might hardly be noticable and for others there might be a big difference. In terms of breastfeeding, this is not a problem.

Why do babies prefer one breast?

• Sometimes your let-down in the one breast is too slow or too forceful. in turn, they will prefer the breast with a faster/slower let-down and in which the supply is more plentiful.
• All women have one breast with more ducts and alveoli than the other.
• Babies have a side preference. They tend to be more comfortable being held to one side and therefore tend to nurse more efficiently and frequently on one side.
• You as a mom may subconsciously offer one breast more than the other because it feels more comfortable on one side.
• A clogged milk duct or mastitis can give breastmilk a salty taste which would make your baby refuse that breast.

If you want to “even-things-out” here are a few things you could try:

• Start baby on the smaller side for each feeding as they tend to nurse more vigorously on the first breast offered.
• Pump the smaller side for 5-10 minutes after some feedings.
• Add extra pumping session for 10-20min in between feedings.

Will your baby get enough milk if she just feeds on the one breast? YES, your baby will get all that she/he needs as long as she/he is allowed to nurse as often as they want to.