Finishing the first breast before offering the second breast.... how?

[Danielle_NZ]

How do you know when a breast is empty and when it's time to move onto the next one?

Perhaps not knowing this is why I haven't succeed yet. Just trying to get the info before this one arrives so I give it my best shot!

[Barb Glare]

Hi, there,
It can be hard to know when the breast is empty. Usually the baby's behaviour will be your best guide. Most babies will come off by themselves when they have had enough. After a burp and a nappy change you might offer them the other side. When they are very small one breast may well be enough for them. But as they grow older they will want both sides. Some babies are "all day suckers" and will literally stay there all day - who wouldn't? It's warm, they get a lovely drink of milk and they get to hang out with their favourite girl - mum. Usually if they've been on for 20-30 mins they've had as much milk as they are going to get, but they often stay on for the cuddle!
The best preparation for breastfeeding is to join the Australian Breastfeeding Association and do a breastfeeding class. As in all things, knowledge is power.
Best opf luck with your new addition to the family

[MrsFabuloso]

Like Barb said, my little man would stay on my boob all day if he could! I know when my boobs are empty because I can feel it. I just have a bit of a grope and can feel if the ducts are full or empty. My boobs are usually less firm to the touch.

[~Hestia~]

My Moo would just come off, I'd attempt to put him back on but he wouldn't be interested or he'd just have a suck or two. Then I'd offer the other side & he'd latch on

Good luck!

[Danielle_NZ]

Thanks ladies... I'd definitely do a ABA course if we had the money for it, unfortunately it's not in our budget at this stage.

[onthefly]

You could think of the cost as insurance against the much greater cost of formula feeding
Have you read Breastfeeding Naturally? (the book you get when you join the ABA) It's also very helpful.

[HotI]

The class is $85, but this includes ABA membership (which is $65). If you can stretch the budget or ask someone to buy it for you as a gift it is really worth it. If it helps you to be able to breastfeed, you will be saving money on bottles and formula.

My bub only took one side for the first few months, but i could feel that my breast felt slacker when it was 'empty'. i could tell which side to start from cos the one i didn't feed from last time was much perkier and harder.