19/11/2025
Correct fl**ge sizing for breast pumps
There is growing evidence that a smaller fl**ge size yields more milk and offers more comfortable pumping
Believe it or not, there has been very little research into fl**ge size, even though electric pumps have been available on the market for 100 years, and milk extraction devices have been found by archaeologists in Greece, back as far as the 5th Century
The guidelines have been "measure the diameter of your ni**le and add 2-5mm" for a long time. But it actually seems that smaller may be better
A fl**ge size that is too big draws the ar**la into the pump, makes the ni**le swell and does not stimulate the correct part of the breast to draw the milk out effectively. Sometimes, it's even difficult to trigger the milk ejection reflex (let-down)
Pumps are routinely sent out with a 24mm or 28mm fl**ge size. Some do a 21mm option
It's actually quite rare to see a ni**le of greater than 21mm. In fact, most are between 15-18mm. Larger ones do exist, but they are unusual
New thinking is to measure the diameter of the tip of the ni**le with a ruler and try that size. A size smaller or larger could also be better. If that size is not available in the brand of pump you have, search for a compatible fl**ge from another company. You can buy inserts that go into the standard fl**ges, but it seems to be more effective to actually use a hard plastic fl**ge of the correct size rather than an insert, but use an insert if that's the only option.
The ni**le should gently touch the sides of the shaft of the pump fl**ge. To help it glide rather than rub, a thin oil like coconut oil or olive oil can be used to lubricate the inside of the shaft.
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