If the Flange Fits… Try It!

I’m really excited to now offer flange fitting as part of my lactation services.

Recent research by Jeantte Mesite Frem from Babies in Common highlights something many parents aren’t told: successful pumping isn’t as simple as using the standard flange that comes with your pump and pressing start. In fact, the fit of your flange can have a significant impact on both your comfort and your milk output.

Flanges (the part of the pump that sits against your breast) come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Finding the right fit isn’t one-size-fits-all. It is a personalised process.

Her 2024 study concluded: “Flange fitting is a process that should be individualized to the patient and may require a trial of one or more sizes during a pumping session. Smaller sizes determined using this individualized process and starting with nipple tip measurement may be used without compromising milk output or comfort.”

This is a relatively new service within lactation care, and I was keen to begin offering it as soon as the research emerged. Supporting mothers to optimise their pumping experience, whether that’s increasing output, or reducing discomfort, (or both!), is something I aim to help people with. 

I currently have over 50 flanges available, across four different shapes and a wide range of sizes, along with connectors compatible with various pump brands so we can find what truly works best for you.

Why might you be pumping?

Supporting early weight gain

Some babies lose more than the expected amount of weight in the first few days after birth. While you and your midwife explore the reasons, you may be advised to offer “top-ups” of expressed breast milk. Using a pump can help you provide the additional milk your baby needs during this time.

Increasing milk supply

There are times when pumping is recommended to help build or maintain milk supply. For example, if a baby has a tongue-tie or other feeding difficulty and isn’t effectively removing milk, pumping can help protect your supply while you wait for further support or treatment.

Returning to work

Many women chose to continue to feed their babies breastmilk after returning to work as the World Health Organisation, and the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends our children receive breastmilk for a minimum of two years to optimise their short and long term health outcomes, as well as the mother's own health outcomes. (For example, did you know that studies show that for every year a woman breastfeeds it reduces her risk of breast cancer by 4.3%?) 

Personal preference to feed expressed breast milk

Some mothers simply prefer to express and bottle-feed their breast milk. Whatever your reason, your feeding journey should work for you and your family.

Could flange fitting help you?

If you’re currently pumping and wondering whether you could:

• increase your milk output

• reduce discomfort

• or simply feel more confident in your pumping routine

then a personalised flange fitting could make a real difference.

I offer home visits, so you can be supported in your own comfortable environment.

Get in touch to book your flange fitting appointment.