Choosing the Right Breast Pump Flange Size - Ameda

Finding the right breast pump flange size is essential for a comfortable and effective pumping experience. A properly fitting flange ensures efficient milk expression, prevents nipple pain, and reduces the risk of clogged ducts or tissue damage. Many breastfeeding mothers struggle with discomfort or low milk output, not realizing that an incorrect flange size could be the root cause.

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Ameda, a pioneer in hospital-grade breast pumps, has been a trusted leader in breastfeeding innovation for decades. With a commitment to supporting nursing mothers, Ameda offers a variety of Breast Pump Flange Soft Inserts to help ensure the best fit for every mom. Understanding how to measure for the correct size and recognizing the signs of an ill-fitting flange can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding journey.

Why Flange Size Matters

Using the wrong breast pump flange size can lead to discomfort and inefficiency during pumping sessions. When the flange is too small, the nipple may rub against the sides of the tunnel, causing irritation, pain, and even damage over time. This can also restrict milk flow, leading to decreased milk output and frustration for mothers trying to establish or maintain their supply.

On the other hand, if the flange is too large, too much of the areola is drawn into the tunnel, which can cause swelling, inefficient suction, and reduced milk expression. An oversized flange may also lead to discomfort and an increased risk of engorgement or clogged milk ducts. Finding the correct flange size helps maintain optimal milk flow and prevents unnecessary discomfort while pumping.

How to Measure for the Right Flange Size

Determining the proper breast pump flange size starts with measuring the nipple diameter before and after pumping. Ameda recommends measuring the nipple at rest and after a short pumping session to account for any natural expansion that occurs during expression.

Once you have the measurement, selecting the appropriate flange size should allow a comfortable fit where the nipple moves freely within the tunnel without excessive areola being pulled in. The goal is to maintain a gentle but effective suction that supports efficient milk extraction without pain or discomfort.

Flange sizing may also change over time. Breast tissue fluctuates postpartum, and moms who experience swelling, engorgement, or changes in nipple size should reassess their flange fit periodically. Keeping track of any discomfort or a sudden drop in milk output can indicate the need for a different size.

For additional help, consult our Ameda Flange Sizing Guide to help you find the perfect fit!

Ameda’s Breast Pump Flange Options

Ameda understands that breastfeeding is not one-size-fits-all, which is why we offer a range of hospital-grade breast pump flanges designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. Our flanges, including our Ameda Universal Soft Breast Pump Flange Inserts, are crafted from soft, flexible materials that reduce irritation while maintaining a secure seal for optimal suction.

With multiple flange sizes available, mothers can select the best fit for their needs and easily switch sizes as their bodies change. Ameda flanges are compatible with all of our high-quality breast pumps, including hospital-grade pumps, standard electric pumps, and portable pumps, ensuring a seamless and comfortable pumping experience.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with the right breast pump flange, some mothers may experience issues that affect their pumping efficiency. If discomfort persists despite using the correct flange size, adjusting the suction level on your breast pump can help. Ameda’s hospital-grade breast pumps feature customizable settings, allowing moms to find the perfect balance between comfort and effectiveness.

For those struggling with low milk output, ensuring proper positioning and flange fit can make a significant difference. Some moms find that switching to a different flange size or using a soft insert provides a better seal and more effective suction. Consulting with a lactation consultant can also provide personalized recommendations to improve pumping success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flange Sizing

How do I know if my breast pump flange fits correctly?

A well-fitting flange should allow your nipple to move freely within the tunnel without rubbing against the sides or being pulled too far into the pump. If you experience pain, swelling, or discomfort, you may need a different size.

Can I use the same flange size for both breasts?

Not always. Some moms find that one breast requires a different flange size due to natural variations in breast and nipple shape. It’s important to assess the fit for each breast individually.

What happens if my flange size changes postpartum?

Hormonal shifts, engorgement, and regular pumping can all affect nipple size over time. If you notice discomfort or a decrease in milk output, re-measuring your nipple and adjusting your flange size may help.

Does Ameda offer different flange sizes for hospital-grade pumps?

Yes! Ameda provides a variety of flange sizes that work with hospital-grade pumps, standard electric pumps, and portable pumps, ensuring every mom can find the best fit for her needs.

Find the Flange Size You Need with Ameda

Choosing the right breast pump flange size is a crucial step in ensuring a comfortable and effective pumping experience. By measuring correctly, recognizing the signs of an improper fit, and selecting from Ameda’s hospital-grade breast pump flanges, moms can enhance their milk expression and overall breastfeeding journey.

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Between the tubes and wires, mechanics and logistics, the whole pumping process can feel, well, like a process. But one thing can make it considerably easier: double-checking that you're using the right breast pump flange size.

It can make the difference between a frustrating struggle to express enough milk and a situation where you can more easily (and painlessly) produce plenty for your baby. Here's what you need to know about flange sizes to make the most of your pumping sessions.

What is a breast pump flange?

A breast pump flange is a funnel-shaped piece of plastic that fits over your nipple. It forms a vacuum seal around your areola, and then draws your nipple into its funnel to extract milk. 

Most pumps come with a standard 24 millimeter (mm) flange. But they’re available in a wide range of sizes, generally anywhere from 21 to 36 mm. The size indicates the diameter of the small tube on the flange's narrow edge. 

You can find different-sized flanges through your pump manufacturer, sites like Amazon or any baby supply store. 

Why is flange size important?

The right flange fit will help you express as much breast milk as efficiently as possible. Your flange size generally depends on your breast tissue and skin elasticity. If your flange is too tight, it will constrict your breasts, which can cause clogged milk ducts that don’t release milk as quickly. 

But if your flange is too loose, you won’t remove all the milk from your breast, which can lower your milk production. It can also cause unnecessary nipple pain and even injury to your nipple. If pumping hurts, it can impede your milk supply. You’re also less likely to stick with it.

Which flange size should you use? Check this flange size chart

To find your size, check the website of your pump's manufacturer. Most companies offer a size guide for flanges based on your nipple size. Here's an approximate guide you can use as a flange size chart:

• Up to 17 mm: 20 to 21 mm flange size
• 17 to 21 mm: 24 mm flange size
• 21 to 25 mm: 27 to 28 mm flange size
• 25 to 29 mm: 30 to 32 mm flange size
• 29 to 32 mm: 36 mm flange size

To measure your nipple diameter (its width), you'll need a ruler or a measuring tape. You can also estimate with coins: A dime is approximately 18 mm, a penny is 19 mm, a nickel is 21 mm and a quarter is 24 mm. 

Before you measure, stimulate your nipple, either by rolling it between your thumb and finger or applying ice to it, to make sure you have its full size. Focus on its diameter at the base, and don’t include the areola. Remember to measure both of your nipples as they can be different sizes. 

Flanges vary from company to company, so you may want to try a few out. You might find that another brand’s flanges work better with your body. It can take some time to find the ideal gear, but most pump and flange combos are totally fine. 

Remember also that your nipple size (and hence your flange size) may fluctuate throughout your breastfeeding journey.

How to tell if you’re using the correct flange size 

Most lactation consultants recommend using the "COMFY" test to help determine the right flange size. Here are the five major guidelines that the acronym stands for:

• Center nipples move freely. Your nipple should move freely in and out without touching the sides of the tunnel and without redness or pain. 
• Only a little areola tissue should be pulled into the tunnel. You should see a bit of areola pulling into the tunnel with each pump cycle, but not too much or none at all. 
• Motion of your breast is gentle and rhythmic. Your breasts should move back and forth every time the pump moves, but gently.
• Feels comfortable breast pumping. Your breast pump shouldn't cause any pain and tenderness. 
• Yields well-drained breasts. Your pump needs to remove the majority of your milk from your breasts to keep up your milk production. Your breasts should feel noticeably softer and lighter once you’re done with your session.

How to tell if your flange is too big or small

Some signs that your flanges don't fit quite right include:

• Your breasts are moving too much or too little while pumping. Movement should be gentle, much like the movement of your nipple within the tunnel.
• Your nipple is rubbing the sides of the tunnel, causing discomfort.
• Your nipple and part of your areola are being pulled into the tunnel.
• Your nipples are red or white after pumping. This can indicate too small a flange.
• Your breasts still feel full after pumping. If they’re heavy and harder, that means all the milk hasn’t drained and your flange is possibly too big.

Finding the perfect flange can take a bit of perseverance, patience and trial and error, but it’s well worth your time and effort. If you’re having trouble, reach out to your doctor or a lactation consultant. He or she can share some advice as you go about your quest to find your perfect flange fit.

From the What to Expect editorial team and Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You're Expecting. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial policy.

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