thread: my right breast hasn't received the pregnancy memo...

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  1. #1
    Registered User

    Dec 2008
    Brisbane, QLD
    5,171

    It is possible to successfully feed off one side Stevie. I'm sure I've heard of it before. Whether it's possible for you or not I don't know but don't give up on it just yet, if it's important to you.
    Another option is to use donated milk if that is something that you are open to.

    If it even comes to that. Maybe have a chat to an LC before you have bub and get a plan in place to give yourselves the best chance possible. At least then, if it doesn't work out, you can say, "I did everything I could and it didn't work" and hopefully feel a bit more confident in yourself and having to supplement.

  2. #2
    Registered User

    Mar 2009
    2,269

    I've fed both of mine almost exclusively off of one breast in the earlier days and then entirely from one as they got older (my leftie too). DD1 fed till just after 3 and I'm 12months in with DD2 (6months of that was tandem feeding too), neither have ever had any formula, bottle or supplementation so it is definitely possible. Breasts work on supply and demand so if the baby is demanding more from one breast it will make more to keep up.

    The only real annoyance for me has been my breasts are completely different sizes which makes bra selection difficult but no problems actually feeding at all.

  3. #3
    BellyBelly Life Subscriber

    Jan 2006
    11,633

    It might be worth getting an appointment with a lactation consultant to have a chat? It certainly is possible to produce enough milk from just one breast.
    All the best

  4. #4

    Mar 2008
    Where dreams are now reality
    2,318

    I second the appointment with a LC, they are going to have far more idea about things that might help or that you might be able to try. Or even a call to the ABA hotline. FWIW BFing second time around is scary when the first time was hard work and a lot of pain, I hear ya! My left was my problem side and even during this pregnancy it certainly doesnt have as dark and deep veins as the right clearly does. Buuuut that said FWIW, I fed solely off one side for a very long time (2 months- over 12 months on one side) then reestablished in the left side to continue feeding from both sides. Try not to panic yet, the key to success is education and determination

  5. #5
    Registered User

    Nov 2009
    Scottish expat living in Geelong
    5,572

    It's absolutely possible to feed off one side only. Think about a mother of twins, she will feed the equivalent of one baby from each side, often without issue. However it is definitely worth seeing a lactation consultant as if your breast is not changing in pregnancy then this might indicate an issue with the breast tissue on that side (only might, it could be a heap of other things too). Have a google of "insufficient glandular tissue" and see if you feel this fits your case.