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Finding The Right Flange

Breastfriend stocks 12 flange sizes, ranging from 13mm through to 27mm, this makes us New Zealand & Australia's most inclusive!

Do I need a flange?

Yep, highly likely. A breast pump flange is the silicone piece that sits over your nipple to create a seal. When the pump starts, the vacuum should draw only your nipple into the tunnel, not your whole areola. This is what allows efficient milk removal. Our pumps come with standard 24 mm flanges, but you may need a smaller or larger size depending on your nipple measurement and how pumping feels.

Using the correct flange size is essential for good suction and milk transfer. The wrong size can cause poor output, clogged ducts, mastitis, reduced supply, and nipple pain or damage.

Now let's find the right size!

  1. Do not pump or breastfeed before measuring, but do roll your nipple gently to stimulate, this is especially important for flat or inverted nipples.
  2. Use the silicone nipple ruler included with The Breasties (recommended for best results). 
  3. Measure your nipple in millimetres at the widest part (typically the base). Measure both nipples as you may need two different sizes.
  4. Your flange size is 1-2 mm more than your nipple's size. If you a first time māmā and you are still pregnant, we recommend adding 2-3 mm.
  5. Add your new flanges to cart!

Keep an eye on your nipples...

Things can (and likely will) change over time. Your nipples adjust, being more swollen in the early days, and then as time goes on they will likely become smaller. This doesn't necessarily mean that you need a new flange, but if you're experiencing discomfort, then it's important to check your flange size.

I've got questions! 

Support is just an email away: hello@breastfriend.co.nz 

I'll try help as best as I can, but I might not be able to answer all questions and for some you might need to speak to a Lactation Consultant. 

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