The Complete Guide to Measuring Flange Size – BabyBuddha Products

BabyBuddha Breast Pump Flange Size Guide

BabyBuddha Breast Pump Flange Size Guide

The correct flange fit is an absolute must for a safe and comfortable breastfeeding journey. Read on to ensure you know how to measure and find your correct flange size.

What is a Flange?

A breast pump flange, commonly known as a breast shield, is a funnel-shaped plastic or silicone piece that fits directly over your nipple to form a seal around your areola. It creates a vacuum that gently draws your nipple into the funnel for milk removal.

Why Flange Size Matters

 Utilizing the right flange size is critical to the success of your breast-pumping journey. Comfortable and efficient pump sessions start with proper flange sizing. Precise contact with the nipple and breast tissue is incredibly important to ensure:

  • A comfortable pumping session
  • Adequate suction and milk production
  • Quick and efficient expression of breast milk
  • Optimal pump performance

Improper flange size can adversely affect your overall breast pumping experience. It may result in reduced suction, blocked ducts, nipple damage, discomfort, pain, and decreased milk output. The distress caused by these issues could potentially halt your pumping journey, hindering the primary goal of providing milk for your baby.

What’s My Flange Size?

Flanges aren’t one-size-fits-all; your size can change throughout your pumping journey. That’s why it’s important to check your flange size regularly. Flanges generally range from 21-36mm. Like most pumps, the BabyBuddha Pump Kit includes a standard24mm flange, but additional flange sizes (21mm,28mm,32mm) are available atBabyBuddha.

Finding the Right Fit: How To Measure for Flange Size

The Complete Guide to Measuring Flange Size

  1. Stimulate nipple gently, but do not pump before measuring.
  2. Use a measuring tape or nipple sizing tool to measure the diameter of nipple in millimeters. 
  3. Be sure to measure nipple at the base where it meets the areola. Do not include the areola.
  4. For optimal flange size, we typically recommend adding 1-4mm to the base measurement.
  5. Determine your BabyBuddha size using the Sizing Chart.

* To purchase our Nipple Sizing Tool or download a free version, go towww.babybuddhaproducts.com/ or use the QR code provided.

Testing the Fit

The Complete Guide to Measuring Flange Size

TOO SMALL:

  • Nipple does not move freely within flange tunnel and rubs along tunnel wall
  • You feel pain or discomfort, even on low suction
  • Milk flows slowly or output is decreased
  • Redness or discoloration occurs after pumping

CORRECT FIT: 

  • Nipple is centered within flange tunnel and moves freely while pumping
  • Areola tissue is only slightly pulled into tunnel
  • You feel no pain or discomfort
  • Breast is drained completely after pumping session

TOO BIG: 

  • Excessive areola tissue is drawn into flange tunnel and rubs along tunnel wall
  • You feel pain or discomfort, even on low suction
  • The flange will not form a proper seal while pumping

BabyBuddha Flange Size Chart

Nipple Diameter

Recommended Flange Size

16-20mm

21mm

20-23mm

24mm

23-27mm

28mm

27-31mm

32mm

When to Get Help

If you're experiencing discomfort, pain, or reduced milk output while pumping, it may be time to reassess your flange fit. Breast and nipple sizes can change throughout your breastfeeding journey, so you may need a different size flange. If issues persist, our Certified Lactation Specialists offer free consultations and will provide personalized virtual support. They can diagnose and treat a variety of lactation and pumping issues, as well as assess your flange fit. For additional help, our Customer Support Team is always available.

Where to Find Us

BabyBuddha has everything you need to make your pumping journey as stress-free as possible. The BabyBuddha Electric Breast Pump has 15 different pumping modules, two flanges, and all the accessories you need. Or, if you need more flange options, check out our Flange Kits

Hands-free, extra-quiet pumping with our electric breast pump gives you the power of a rechargeable battery for an hour of pumping (aka two to four sessions). Pump on the go or while you sit and rest — get your BabyBuddha breast pump covered by filling out our insurance forms

PS: The Manual Breast Pump comes with tight-sealing flanges too! 

Need Support

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us: 

BabyBuddha Products 

www.babybuddhaproducts.com

Customer Support

support@babybuddhaproducts.com

Wholesale and Insurance Inquiries

info@babybuddhaproducts.com