How to remember which side you breastfed on last
Short answer: start each feed on the side you finished on last time, or the side that feels fuller. Write the side down the moment you switch, because you will not remember it two hours later.
Why the side matters
Many lactation consultants suggest alternating the starting side so both breasts are emptied regularly. It helps keep supply balanced and lowers the chance of engorgement or a blocked duct. Ask your midwife or lactation consultant what fits you and your baby.
Low-tech ways
- Hair tie or bracelet: move it to the wrist of the side you finished on.
- Safety pin on the bra strap: the same idea, clipped to the side to start with next.
- Paper log on the nightstand: time, side and minutes. Works until the pen goes missing.
With a timer app
A breastfeeding timer that records each side does the remembering for you. In Nightfeed, tap Left or Right to start and tap the other side to switch. When you finish, the home screen shows how long ago the feed was, the minutes on each side, and Next: Right (or Left). The same line shows on the home screen widget, so you can check without opening the app.
If you forgot to start the timer
Start it anyway and tap Started 5 min earlier, or add the feed afterwards and pick the side you ended on. A roughly right record beats no record.