Maybe you’ve noticed that one of your breasts seems to be producing a lower amount of milk compared to the other. You are not the only one going through this. Many breastfeeding mothers experience this common challenge. Don’t worry. Together, let’s get to the bottom of this problem and figure out how to approach it.

Is Uneven Milk Production Normal?

Yes, like many aspects of breastfeeding, uneven milk production is more common than you might think. It’s natural for many moms to expect both breasts to produce the same amount of milk for breastfeeding. However, similar to how our feet might be slightly different sizes, our breasts might have different milk production levels, and it’s perfectly normal. The differences are natural and there’s nothing to worry about.

Signs of Uneven Breast Milk Production

Wondering if you’re dealing with uneven milk production? There are several clear signs that can help you identify if one breast is producing less milk than the other. You might notice:

• One breast feels fuller or heavier than the other
• Different amounts when pumping from each side
• Your baby seems to prefer or feed longer on one side
• Visible size differences between breasts during feeding times
• One breast becomes empty faster during feeding

Common Causes of Asymmetric Milk Production

Now, let’s get into the factors that lead to uneven milk production:

Natural Anatomical Differences

It’s normal for breast tissue and milk tubes on each side to be a little different, just like most people have slightly different-sized feet or hands. Some moms naturally have more milk-producing tissue or ducts than the other. This is purely biological and nothing to worry about – in fact, studies show that up to 65.7% of mothers might produce more milk from their right breast.

Previous Breast Surgery or Injury

Any past breast procedures or injuries can impact milk production. This includes surgeries like biopsies, breast reduction, augmentation, or even minor procedures. Even something as simple as a past injury from sports or accidents can affect milk ducts and tissue.

Blocked Ducts

Milk ducts can become clogged when milk isn’t fully drained from the breast, creating a backup in the system – like a traffic jam. This often feels like a tender, firm lump in your breast and can temporarily reduce milk flow. Common causes include tight bras, sleeping position, missed feedings, or not emptying the breast completely during feeds.

Baby’s Feeding Preference

Some babies might prefer one side due to torticollis (neck muscle tightness) or reflux. This preference can lead to more stimulation on one side, resulting in increased milk production there, while the less-preferred side might see a decrease in supply.

Improper Latch or Positioning

If the latch is shallow or positioning is awkward on one side, your baby might not effectively remove milk from that breast. This can be especially challenging for mothers recovering from C-sections or those with larger breasts. Proper positioning ensures your baby can effectively drain the breast, which is important for keeping your milk supply up.

How to Increase Breast Milk on the Low-Producing Side

Now that we know what’s going on, let’s talk about what you can do. There are lots of effective strategies you can do at home to help balance your milk production.

Begin Nursing on the Lower-Producing Side

Since babies tend to nurse more vigorously at the start of a feeding, starting on the less productive side can help stimulate more milk production. Try this for several days: start at least 2-3 feedings on the lower-producing side, then switch to the other breast once your baby’s sucking becomes less vigorous.

Check Your Latch

Ensure your baby is latching properly on both sides. A good latch means their mouth covers a large portion of the areola(the darker area around your nipple), not just the nipple. Look for these signs of a good latch: your baby’s lips should be flanged out like fish lips, their chin should touch your breast, and you should hear regular swallowing sounds. If you’re unsure about the latch, try the “sandwich hold” technique – compress your breast gently between your thumb and fingers, making it easier for your baby to get a deep latch.

Try Different Nursing Positions

Experiment with various nursing positions to find what works best for both sides. Some positions that often work well include:

• Cross-cradle hold: Great for maintaining control of both your breast and baby’s head
• Football hold: Especially helpful if you’ve had a C-section or have larger breasts
• Side-lying position: Perfect for nighttime feeds and can help with milk flow
• Laid-back nursing: Uses gravity to help maintain a deep latch

Improve Milk Production with Breast Pump Strategies

Pumping can make a big difference in evening out milk production.

• Power pumping: Try using the breast pump on the lower-producing side for 10-20 minutes after regular feeding sessions.
• Extra attention: Pump the less productive side while your baby nurses on the other side.
• Compression techniques: Gently massage and compress your breast while using the electric breast pump to help empty it more effectively.

Apply Further Physical Techniques

These hands-on approaches can make a big difference:

• Apply warm compresses before feeding or pumping.
• Practice breast massage to stimulate milk flow.
• Try dangle feeding (leaning over your baby) to help with milk flow.

Stay Hydrated

Your body needs plenty of water to produce breast milk. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily and keep a large water bottle with you during feeding sessions. Many moms notice they feel especially thirsty while nursing. A good trick is to drink a glass of water every time you sit down to nurse. If plain water gets boring, try infusing it with fruit or sipping on caffeine-free herbal teas.

Eat Well

Your body needs extra nutrients while breastfeeding to maintain a good milk supply. Focus on these nutrient-rich foods:

• Protein-rich foods, including eggs, lean meats, fish, legumes, and dairy products. These help build and maintain your milk supply.
• Whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread provide sustained energy and can support milk production.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables help provide essential vitamins and minerals. Dark leafy greens are especially beneficial.
• Healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil help with nutrient absorption and provide energy for milk production.

Get Enough Rest

While it might seem impossible with a newborn, getting adequate rest is crucial for milk production. Your body needs energy to make milk! Please try to:

• Sleep when your baby sleeps: Even short naps can help recharge your batteries
• Accept help from family and friends: Let others handle household tasks or watch the baby while you nap
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine: This might include a warm bath, gentle stretching, or reading a book to help you wind down

Manage Stress

High stress levels can affect your milk production. Try these gentle stress-management techniques:

• Deep breathing exercises: Take 5-10 deep breaths whenever you feel overwhelmed
• Gentle stretching: Simple neck, shoulder, and back stretches can help release tension
• Short meditation sessions: Even 5 minutes of quiet mindfulness can make a difference
• Light exercise: A gentle walk with your baby in a stroller can boost mood and energy levels

Seek support

Don’t hesitate to reach out to lactation consultants, other breastfeeding mothers who understand what you’re going through, local breastfeeding support groups, or your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some unevenness is normal, there are times when you should consult with a healthcare provider. Understanding these signs can help you make informed decisions about your breastfeeding journey. Watch for these signs that indicate you should seek professional help:

Significant and Persistent Difference

If you notice one breast consistently produces significantly less milk (like less than half of what the other breast produces) despite trying various techniques for several weeks. In that case, it’s time to consult a professional.

Signs of Infection or Mastitis

Pay attention to these warning signs:

• Redness or warmth in the breast that looks like a sunburn and feels hot to the touch. This might start small but can spread quickly.
• Fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, which often comes on suddenly and can make you feel quite ill.
• Flu-like symptoms including body aches, chills, fatigue, and generally feeling unwell – these symptoms often appear before you notice breast changes.
• Severe pain that’s different from normal breastfeeding sensations, often accompanied by swelling and tenderness.

Pain or Discomfort

Certain types of pain need professional evaluation:

• Sharp or burning pain during feeding that doesn’t improve with positioning changes. This could indicate a nerve issue or infection.
• Persistent soreness that doesn’t improve after the first few weeks of breastfeeding or returns after a period of comfortable nursing.
• Deep breast pain that feels like it’s deep within your breast tissue, which might indicate a problem with milk flow or duct system.

Baby-Related Concerns

Your baby’s behavior and growth can provide important clues:

• Poor weight gain or weight loss after the initial newborn period. Your baby should be back to birth weight by 2 weeks and then gain steadily.
• Decreased wet or soiled diapers – watch for fewer than 6-8 wet diapers per day after day 5, or significant changes in diaper output.
• Fussiness during feeding that seems unusual or excessive, especially if your baby pulls away frequently or seems frustrated at the breast.
• Difficulty latching that persists despite trying different positions, or if your baby seems unable to maintain a deep latch throughout the feeding.

Address Uneven BreastMilk Output with Care

To deal with uneven milk output, you need to be patient, consistent, and take care of yourself. Talk to your doctor or a breastfeeding expert if you’re ever not sure what to do. They’re there to help you along the way. Take it easy on yourself, enjoy the little wins, and remember that you’re doing a great job providing for your baby.