If you are a pumper, using the right flange size could really be a make-or-break for you. The flange is the part of the breast pump that comes in contact with your body when placed onto the breast and nipple, forming a vacuum seal with the areola (the funnel-shaped part). Commercial breast pumps typically come with 1-2 "standard" flange sizes, usually 24 mm and a 27 or 28 mm set. MANY pumpers actually need something smaller and knowing your flange size can make a big difference.
WHY DO I NEED TO KNOW MY FLANGE SIZE?
Are you experiencing:
- Pain?
- Nipple damage?
- Low output?
- Still feel full after pumping?
- Unsure if your flange is too big or too small?
If the answer to any of the above is "yes", figuring out your flange size can help reduce the pain and damage, increase output and overall comfort. It also helps to know that if you have been pumping for a long time in a flange that is too big, your nipple tissue can be very swollen from that wrong size. After getting to know your right fit, you may find that you need to change size again as swelling decreases with your proper fit.
To know your flange size, you can do a measurement of each nipple with a special nipple ruler. This can help to ensure you are using the appropriate flange size while pumping. Legendairy Milk has created a printable nipple ruler that you can download for free from our website.
Click on this link to download the nipple ruler and get measuring instructions.