First of all – what’s a flange?
The flange is the part of your pump that fits on your breast
around your nipple. In most traditional pumps, the flange resembles a funnel.
Second – what is being measured to determine a good fit?
The size of a flange is determined by the width of its opening.
The size of your flange will depend on both the size of your breasts and more
importantly, the size of your nipples. It is not uncommon for a woman’s two
breasts (and nipples) to vary slightly in size and therefore vary slightly in
best flange size.
Here are some indications that you are using the correct flange
size.
- While pumping there is a tight suction and your nipple still moves comfortably within the flange.
- While pumping an excessive amount of your areola is not pulled within the flange.
- After pumping your nipples are a red or pink color, not white.
- After a full pumping session you feel that your breasts are empty and there are no hard lumps.
However, as it’s often the case with matters of breast pumping –
no one will really know the answer to this question but you. Each brand’s
flanges are different and every woman’s breasts are also different. In
addition, it is not uncommon for women’s breasts to change over the course of
breast pumping for one child or for successive children.
If you suspect that the flanges you currently use are not the
correct size look up the recommendations for your specific breast pump as
provided by the manufacturers on their websites. Here are links for the 5
brands distributed by Byram Healthcare.
Medela
Ameda
Spectra
Freemie
Hygeia
Hygeia also offers a youtube video that includes a section on
proper flange sizes.
Most brands offer variously sized flanges for purchase should
you feel that you need to try a new size.
As always, if you are not finding success with pumping and/or
you feel unusual pain or discomfort seek the consultation of your physician
and/or lactation consultant.
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