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Is Breastmilk Different on Each Side?

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By Alison Heyerdahl

You may have noticed that we are not completely symmetrical, and this goes for our breasts too.  It is completely normal to have one breast larger than the other, and by the same token, for one to produce more milk than the other.  This is nothing to worry about, and it will not affect the quality of your milk. However, for some mothers, an uneven milk supply can cause discomfort, especially if the baby is nursing on one side more than the other, and you may want to take steps to rectify this feeding imbalance.

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Why are there differences between the breasts?

  • Natural anatomical differences between the breasts.  It is normal for there to be anatomical differences between the ducts and alveoli (milk-making tissue) between one breast and the other.  

  • Baby prefers one breast.  You may notice that your baby latches easier and more readily to one breast.  This may be because there is a difference in your nipples – one may being slightly inverted, flatter, or they may differ in size.  Babies may also prefer to be held on one side more than the other and therefore nurse more frequently on that side.   

  • Differences in let-down reflex.  Sometimes one breast will have a stronger let-down reflex than the other.  As a result, there may be a difference in the flow of breastmilk between the breasts. 

  • Mothers prefer nursing on one side more than the other.  This could be due to the fact it is easier or more comfortable to hold the baby on one side.

  • Previous breast surgery or injury.  Milk supply can be affected by damage to the tissue on one side.  

How to even out your supply

We know that breastfeeding is a demand and supply process.  The more a baby nurses, the more milk your breasts produce.  To create a more even milk supply in both breasts, these tips may work for you:

  • Always start your breastfeeding sessions on the less favored side.  When babies are hungry, they tend to suck more vigorously, stimulating an increase in milk production.  Always start your feeding sessions on the smaller breast. This will slowly build up the supply on that side.  If your baby persistently refuses to feed on one breast, take him or her to the doctor for a check-up.  It could be a result of an ear infection or other illness in the baby.  It could also be that you unknowingly have a breast infection, and so the milk tastes slightly salty on that side.  

  • Nurse more frequently on the less productive breast.  Nurse twice as much on the less productive side, and pump the smaller side after nursing for a short period after feedings.  You may also consider adding an extra pumping session on the less productive side between feedings.    Just ensure that you don’t completely neglect the higher-producing breast, as this could cause engorgement or mastitis.  

  • A slow let-down reflex on one side could create a lower milk supply. This could be a result of anxiety, pain, excessive caffeine, alcohol use, smoking and certain medications.  You may also experience a slower let-down on one side if your breast has been damaged through surgery or direct injury.  To improve your let-down reflex you may consider the following:

  • Taking a relaxing shower or bath

  • Taking pain-relieving medication that is breastfeeding safe

  • Finding a space where you can sit comfortably and won’t be distracted

  • Massaging your breasts and gently rolling your nipples to encourage the let-down

Will my baby get enough milk if I exclusively breastfeed on one side?

Even if you nurse entirely on one side, your baby will get enough milk provided she can breastfeed for as long and as frequently as she needs.  If your baby is refusing one breast, ensure that you pump that side every time you nurse so that you maintain your milk supply.

In conclusion, it is common to have one breast that is smaller than the other and which produces less milk.  While this is nothing to fret about, it is possible to even out the milk supply of both breasts.  This can be achieved by starting your breastfeeding sessions on the less productive side, nursing your baby on that breast more frequently, pumping that side more often, and taking steps to improve your let-down reflex.  Even if you cannot breastfeed on one breast, your baby will still receive all the milk she needs as long as she is not inhibited from nursing.



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