Flange sizing
What is a flange size?
A flange, or breast shield, sits on the nipple while you pump. It’s shaped like a funnel and helps to form a vacuum seal around the nipple. The flange size is the diameter of the flange you are using.
Why does flange size matter?
The flange size you use will determine how your nipple reacts to being suctioned to the breast pump. Pumps typically come with 24 and 28mm flanges, while most women find that their nipples are in the 13-19mm range!
Incorrect flange size can cause:
pain
damage
swelling
redness
milk blebs or blisters
DECREASE IN MILK SUPPLY/OUTPUT
clogged milk ducts
How do I find my flange size?
It is important to measure your nipple to find your correct flange size at the beginning of your pumping journey, as well as throughout - nipple size can change with breastfeeding! If you are currently pregnant, I wouldn’t recommend measuring your flange size until your third trimester. I would also recommend measuring yourself again when you start your breastfeeding journey.
How to find your flange size:
Measure the widest part of your nipple when erect (NOT including your areola) using a nipple measuring card or a measuring tape
if you are using a measuring card, make sure you pick the size that your nipple moves easily in and out of
Add 1-2mm to get your flange size range (example: nipple measures 16mm, so flange size range would be about 16mm - 18mm)
Measure BOTH nipples! Sometimes they are different sizes!
Once you have your number, I recommend trying different flange sizes in your “range” to find the best fit for you!
Typically you want to pick a flange that is the same width as your nipple, but the most important thing is how you react to the size. With the right flange size you should see spraying, a decrease in the amount of time it takes you to pump, better output and most importantly no pain or discomfort. Using my example above I would try 16mm and then maybe a 17mm or 18mm if the 16mm wasn’t comfortable or didn’t improve my pumping.
Using these steps to get your flange size will typically work - however if you are struggling finding your flange size and none of the sizes in your “range” are comfortable I highly recommend working with a lactation consultant so they can see how your nipple is reacting to your pump! Pumping should never be painful!
I do like to recommend purchasing flange INSERTS at first (only works to decrease flange size) because they are relatively inexpensive and they usually come in a pack of 4 sizes, giving you the opportunity to try the fit of the different sizes without buying a bunch of flanges! However, once you determine your size you can always buy the correct flange that goes with your pump! Some research does suggest that pumping with hard plastic is better than with silicone, but not every brand will have your flange size available in hard plastic!
If you find your need to increase your flange size, inserts will not work. You will want to look into buying a larger size flange!
Unfortunately some pumps do not have flange sizes over 28mm, so if you nipples measures larger than 28mm make sure you know the pump will have your flange size available before purchasing that pump! The biggest limit will be wearable pumps, the largest flange size they offer is 28mm.
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