When to change breast

[runnermum2]

I don't know when or if I should swap breasts during a feed. My DD is 8 weeks old. Initially I can feel that the breast is firm but after 15-20 mins of strong sucking it is noticeably softer and DD's sucking slows. But it never stops and if I try to unlatch her she starts up sucking strongly again for a few seconds. I don't know whether I should offer the 2nd breast at this point or wait until she comes off by herself. This is usually about 45-60 mins later and she usually falls off when she is asleep and then won't take the second breast. Thanks in advance for your replies.

I am no expert but I tend to offer one breast at each feed, unless she seems to have "emptied" one (pulls on & off, still rooting, crying a bit) and then I swap her over. This is pretty rare though.
It sounds like your little one is getting just what she needs with the system you have going- she sounds pretty contented to me!

There is no rule that says you MUST change breasts during a feed. Does she suck for the whole 45mins? Is she satisfied after the feed and will she then sleep/be satisfied for a while? If so and you are happy with the situation carry on feeding this way. If you feel she needs more then you could wait until her sucking slows right down unlatch her and offer the second breast - if she takes it then see how she goes, offer the second breast first next feed.

i used to swap mine when they started the long pauses and just light "fluttery" sucking.

runner It's really not as complex as all that. Change breasts whenever you feel like it.

Personally I'd do it when her sucking slows and before she falls asleep to ensure that the other breast had a go, and then after a while, when either she, or I got fed up, swap her again.

Don't worry about which one you start on either. If you are swapping frequently and feeding on demand, if you offer the 'wrong' one, she'll just slow earlier and you can swap her then.

There really aren't any rules to feeding on demand except the obvious 'feed on demand'.

I fed one side per feed unless DS fussed, then I'd swap. Usually during a growth spurt or illness/teething he'd want a double!

Thanks everyone. Think I'm getting a bit hung up on doing everything 'right'. Will try to relax a bit and go with the flow

runner. sounds like some good advice, so I don't need to add my two'peneth. But go with the flow and don't worry too much. If your baby seems settled and isn't rooting for anymore you're good to go.
Well done you

Once she comes off herself, offer the other side - she might take it or might not, but there's no harm in offering.