One-Breast vs Two-Breast Feedings

I am often asked whether one breast or two breasts should be offered per feeding. This is a tricky question, and every mother/infant couplet should be considered individually. However, in the first couple of weeks after birth, a mother’s breasts may be somewhat engorged (normal fullness) as they begin to regulate milk production. Offering both breasts per feeding allows each breast some relief of pressure, and therefore comfort for mother. Later, after the initial couple of weeks, one-breast feedings may serve to balance the intake of fore-milk and hind-milk (a discussion all in its own).