Will I be able to breastfeed with just one breast?

[EssElsiee]

Hi,

Im 26 and had breast cancer 2 years ago, although they managed to save my left breast and just do a lumpectomy (cut out affected tissue) I did also have radiotherapy. Although I had radiotherapy and surgery, there was never really much different in size between the 2 breasts. Fast forward to now, I’m 24 weeks, and it’s quite evident that the right non affected breast has got ALOT bigger, where as the left has stayed the same. It makes me think potentially only the right will produce milk, although I’m not 100% sure yet. Is it possible to BF only with 1 breast? Or is it likely I will just have to bottle feed?

Yes you will be able to. Some mums with twins feed each baby just from one breast assigned to them. Some women have one breast which doesn't produce as much or baby doesn't like as much so they just use one. Definitely can feed from just one. I also know of a friend in a similar situation as you who breastfed successfully

I suggest joining your local la leche league facebook group, they will have specific advice and support for your situation if needed.

I breastfed one of mine for 18 months on one breast. I haven't had cancer, both breasts produce milk, he would just never take from the right side. I tried repeatedly to get him to. After a while I just pumped the left and fed him off right. I am extremely lopsided now though....

A friend breastfed her baby with just one breast as the nipple on the other got too damaged to feed with

I was a member of a Facebook breastfeeding group and there were some mothers in there who breastfed after having had breast cancer. I think you should try and find an online breastfeeding support group, I found it really supportive and there might be one that's specifically for women in situations like yours.

Congrats on your pregnancy.

I breastfed both of mine from one breast. One produced lots of milk, the other not very much, and the nipple shape on that side made it harder to latch. Neither had any problems with weight gain, though it was a bit annoying at times!

I still breastfeed my 2yo from one breast that she preferred, I'm sure it'll be fine x