Are you about to pump, Mama? STOP. Yes, put that pump down until you finish reading this article! You may be missing out on some serious milk supply and a more comfortable pumping experience. This pumping game changer is an easy and inexpensive process I’m going to walk you through right now. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn commission on qualifying purchases (thank you for supporting my small business!).

Your Pump Flanges are NOT the Correct Size

The flanges that come with your breast pumps are usually not correctly sized to your nipples. I repeat, your flanges are not the right size to pump effectively and comfortably.

As you’re pumping, do you notice any of the following?

• More than just my nipple is being pulled into my pump flange
• My nipples are being pulled almost all the way down the pump flange (sometimes referred to as Elastic Nipples)
• When I first start pumping, my nipples feel very uncomfortable against the hard plastic
• I experience a lot of soreness after pumping

If you’ve successfully breastfed or just watched a baby latch, their mouths obviously envelope the nipple very closely to create a vacuum. Babies can empty a breast more quickly than a pump, and a major reason is that their mouth custom fits your nipple. Your flange should be doing the same thing!

How do I Fix Incorrect Flange Sizes?

This is a easy two step process.

Step 1: Measure your Nipple Size -Use this nipple sizing tool from Elvie. It walks you through step by step exactly when and how to measure your nipple for the best fit. This is the easiest fit tool I have found and very fool proof.

I highly recommend printing out the sizing tool, which lets you cut out 15 different sized wholes to fit directly over your nipple. You can then keep your tool on hand for future measuring.

If you don’t want to mess around with a paper tool or ruler, you can always order a Silicone Nipple Ruler too.

Step 2: Order the correct Flange Insert

Found your correct nipple size? Perfect! Now it’s time to order your inserts. If you’re using 24 mm or 28 mm breast shields, be sure to order inserts that work with your corresponding flange size.

These are the best inserts I have found and fit into my Elvie Breast Pumps, Spectra S1, and Spectra S2:

Begical Flange Inserts for Medela/Spectra/Elvie/Motif Luna/Ameda MYA Breastpump 24mm Breast Shields

Using the inserts is as easy as slipping them directly inside your flange whenever you pump. Your first few sessions might feel odd at first and you may want to apply just a pea size drop of Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream to improve suction and the overall feeling.

Trust me, once you get used to using inserts, its very uncomfortable to go back. You will never want to pump without them and subject your nipples to the hard plastic ever again. I genuinely cringe at the thought.

Will My Flange Size Change?

Yes! Your nipples will change as you move through your post partum journey. It is important that you measure regularly and update your flange inserts on an ongoing basis. I generally remeasure my nipples about once a month to make sure I’m using the best size for both milk supply and comfort.

Ok, now that you know my biggest breast pumping hack, you are free to go back to your pumping session. If you get the inserts, let me know how they help you.

Power on, Mama – you’re doing amazing!