what is block feeding??

[handzfull]

I'm sort of new here, although I'm not new to bf'ing. But I've never heard the term "block feeding" until I started reading these boards. What is it and why would you do it? Thanks!

[ramama]

Block feeding is nursing one one side for consecutive feeding. That is, having baby nurse on the right side only for 2-3 feedings, or the left. I've never done it (on purpose) since I believe that block feeding is a response to some sort of BF difficulty (though I don't know what they are, really).

[Katica]

I agree with the pp. Block feeding is suggested when you have an oversupply of milk and trying to reduce it a bit.

[kfillmore]

I did it because people here recommended it fir foamy poo (due to possible too much foremilk) Whatever the reason it seemed to help for a while. I did find it reassuring that i didn't have to be soo careful about balancing my feedings, which seemed according to books be so important.

[seafox]

I've done it now for 6 weeks or so (since DS was 4 weeks and I learned about it) I have I guess easily-stimulated breasts? that produce WAY too much milk and get engorged really easily. I also have an overactive letdown. DS was getting too much foremilk plus choking and sputtering at the letdown. I block feed by hours - 6 hour blocks (usually 3 feeds a breast) and its helped immensely. My supply just this week seems to be more in tune w/ what he eats though I admit I read a lot about how to start block feeding, but not if/when to stop. I tried stopping two weeks ago and my boobs became immense within a day! so not sure if I have to keep doing this or not (I tend to look a bit lopsided most of the day!)

[handzfull]

Oh, okay! I've sort of done that on occasion due to really sore nipples on one side or the other, basically because I couldn't stand the pain, and it really helped. Now I understand what you all are talking about...thanks!