The recent discussion on foremilk/hindmilk points out how we can
easily go out on a limb.  We definitely need to get away from the
"baby must take both sides, stop the first in time to get to the
second" approach.  Unfortunately, this has led to the "one side and
one side only" approach.  Is this any different in approach than
those parenting programs we complain about that say every baby
should nurse only every X hours or every baby should sleep through
the night by X age?  With many aspects of breastfeeding, the number
one rule is that there are no rules.  Each mom/baby pair is unique.
This can be challenging when mothers (and HCPs) want information
that is cut and dried, very definitive etc.  In talking about
introducing a bottle for example, I like to say "If what you're
trying isn't working, try the opposite."  While this may not work in
all situations, it does point out that what works well for one
mom/baby isn't necessarily what works for another and that includes
the same mom with a different baby.
I like to encourage moms to "finish the first side first", but also
tell them that if baby looks interested, especially after a burp or
a diaper change, then offer the other breast.  Some babies are
one-siders, some two-siders.  For most it's one side sometimes, both
other times, and when baby is looking for a "10 course dinner" he
may go back to the first for another round.
Helping parents learn to listen to their own baby and respect the
fact that each is an individual instead of expecting them to fit a
preconceived pattern is one of the most important things we do.

Winnie

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