Signs Your Breast Pump Flange Size Is Wrong—And How to Fix It

Do you know how to measure your nipple for a flange size? Not many women do, and it’s one of those things about breastfeeding that can sometimes go amiss. Using the correct flange sizes on your breast pump can drastically change your milk output and comfort.

Throughout your breastfeeding journey, it’s common for your flange size to change, so let’s see what that looks like and how you can recognise the signs.

What Is a Flange and Why Does Size Matter?

The breast pump flange is the round, cone-like shield that goes over the nipple to create a tight seal for milk expression. When it comes to breast pump flanges, size does matter.

If the flange size isn’t right for your breast, it won’t create a tight seal for effective pumping and can cause discomfort on the nipple and surrounding breast tissue. The breast pump brand provides a nipple shield size chart or flange size chart as a resource for getting the flange sizes correct.

Different types of nipples

Depending on the shape or nipple size, this will determine what flange size you will need for your breast pump. If you notice a change in how your nipples look, for example, if they go from protruding to flat, it’s strongly advised to speak to a healthcare professional.

Inverted Nipple

The nipple turns into the areola, similar to an inverted belly button, and points inward.

Protruding Nipple

The nipple sticks out (roughly up to 9mm) from the base of the areola. This is the most common type of nipple.

Flat Nipple

The nipple doesn’t protrude or invert, it is flat and in line with the areola surrounding it.

How to Measure Flange Size Correctly

When you have a baby, we bet you didn’t think you would be measuring your nipple! Well, to choose the correct breast pump flange size, follow these simple steps to measure precisely.

How to measure nipple for flange size

You will need a ruler or measuring tape before you start. Sometimes it helps to do this in the mirror to see that you’re measuring the correct area. The best time to measure your nipple size is after breastfeeding or pumping. 

1. Place the measuring tape or ruler onto the nipple.

2. Measure in mm from the base of the nipple to the top; this doesn’t include the areola surrounding it.

3. Once you have measured, check the breast pump flange size chart to discover which size breast shield you will need.

4. Check your nipple size over time and when you notice signs that your flange size might be wrong.

Common Flange Sizes and Adjustments

When you purchase a breast pump, it will often come with a standard flange size, which is suitable for most women. Some brands offer more than one flange size in their electric breast pump kit, and others have them available to purchase separately.

Especially when it comes to flange sizes, one size doesn’t fit all. It’s important to check the flange provided in the breast pump set to ensure that it will be a comfortable and efficient breast pump flange to use.

For women with larger nipples or breasts, consider researching the best breast pump for large breasts to accommodate your needs. If your sizing doesn’t fit standard sizes that are typically offered with breast pumps, consider choosing a custom flange size and breast pump that can tick all the boxes.

Signs Your Flange Size Is Wrong

One flange size may be just right, and the flange for the other breast is not. Signs that the flange size is wrong can be if your nipple hurts after pumping, or there is swelling or redness around the areola. Ignoring the signs can lead to nipple trauma and damage, so it is best to recognise the signs and make some changes to your breast pump flange.

What do nipples look like if the flange is too big/ too small?

If the flange size is too big or too small, the symptoms to look out for are if too much of the areola is being pulled into the flange. This will result in discomfort as you pump and cause swelling around the areola and breast tissue.

Can the wrong flange size affect milk output?

Yes, it can. If the flange size is wrong, the flange won’t be able to seal itself to the breast, creating the suction required to express milk. The tight seal is essential for creating suction to withdraw the milk as you use expression and stimulation modes.

Inefficient pumping can also lead to other complications, such as breastfeeding knots, clogged milk ducts, and a less efficient breast pump.

Should the areola go into the flange?

The ideal fit for a breast pump flange is with the nipple in the centre and the minimum areola being pulled in with each suction. If you can achieve this, the flange size is correct, and you will be protecting the areola (darker skin around your nipple) and the breast tissue. If the flange size is too small, your nipple will rub on the sides of the flange with each suction.

What to Do If Your Flange Size Is Wrong

Here are some tips to try if you think your flange size is wrong on your breast pump:

• Measure your nipple size regularly and alternate between flange sizes to get a feel for the best fit

• If the flange size is too big, you may leak some breast milk because the seal isn’t tight enough

• Speak to a lactation consultant if you need further support with getting your flange size right

• Try using soft silicone flanges or inserts if your size isn’t available

• Adjust the settings on your electric breast pump to reduce the suction and start slowly, whilst you test that your flange size is correct

Final Tips for Comfortable Pumping

Pumping breast milk shouldn’t be painful - if it is, then there’s something wrong that needs changing. Following these useful pumping tips can help to eliminate any discomfort and further complications.

• Monitor your nipple health regularly and speak to a doctor if you have any concerns

• Use lubricants or nipple balm to soothe sore or irritated skin

• Clean flanges properly by using hot soapy water and sterilising afterwards

• Keep track of your milk output with each adjustment as you test your flange size

Conclusion

In a nutshell, if your breast pump flange size isn’t right, you’re not going to have a comfortable pumping experience. It could also lead to further complications that require treatment if you keep using the wrong flange size.

Follow this guide and useful tips to help get your breast pump flange size correct for better comfort and efficiency. If you need help choosing a Lola&Lykke breast pump flange size, contact our customer support team for friendly advice.