Introduction to Medela Pump Flange Size Guide
In my Auckland clinic, I often see mums struggling with breast pump flange sizes. As an IBCLC, I want to help you get the right fit for comfortable and efficient expressing. According to Plunket, a well-fitting flange is essential for effective milk expression and preventing nipple trauma. In fact, Plunket's 24/7 helpline (0800 933 922) receives numerous calls from mums experiencing discomfort and pain due to ill-fitting flanges.
Why Flange Size Matters
A good fit is crucial for comfortable and efficient expressing. If the flange is too small, it can cause nipple trauma and reduce milk flow. On the other hand, a flange that is too large can lead to a poor seal and decreased suction. As Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora recommends, it's essential to choose the right size for your breast pump. I recall a mum who came to my clinic with severe nipple trauma due to a flange that was two sizes too small. She was in immense pain and struggled to express milk. After fitting her with the correct size, she was able to express comfortably and efficiently.
I remember one mum, Sarah, who was expressing milk for her premature baby at Auckland Hospital. She was using a flange that was too small, which caused her significant discomfort and pain. After switching to a larger size, she was able to express milk comfortably and efficiently, and her baby was able to receive the nourishment they needed. The feeling of relief and comfort she experienced after finding the right fit was palpable, and it was a testament to the importance of proper flange sizing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Medela Pump Flange Size
- Measure your nipple diameter using a ruler or a nipple gauge, taking care to measure at the base of the nipple.
- Choose a flange size that is 1-2 mm larger than your nipple diameter, ensuring a comfortable and efficient fit.
- Try out the flange and adjust as needed to ensure a comfortable fit, taking note of any discomfort or pain.
Medela Pump Flange Size Chart
Medela offers a range of flange sizes to fit different breast types. You can refer to their website for a detailed size chart. For example, the Medela Symphony flange size chart recommends the following sizes: 21mm, 24mm, 27mm, and 30mm. It's essential to consult this chart and choose the correct size to ensure a comfortable and efficient expressing experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is choosing a flange size that is too small. This can lead to nipple trauma and reduced milk flow. Another mistake is not trying out the flange before purchasing. As La Leche League New Zealand advises, it's essential to try out the flange and adjust as needed to ensure a comfortable fit. I recommend visiting your local La Leche League meeting or calling their helpline (09 528 5041) for personalized advice and support.
Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double) - A Great Option for Kiwi Mums
The Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double) is a great option for mums who want a comfortable and efficient pumping experience. This hospital-grade, hands-free wearable pump is available for $209.90 (was $419.80) and comes with free NZ-wide shipping and a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can purchase it from TheRelievoo. With its sleek design and quiet operation, this pump is perfect for expressing milk at home, in the office, or on-the-go.
Breast Pump Flange Fitting Guide
A well-fitting flange is essential for effective milk expression and preventing nipple trauma. As Healthify He Puna Waiora recommends, it's essential to choose the right size for your breast pump and try out the flange before purchasing. Remember, a well-fitting flange should feel comfortable and secure, allowing you to express milk efficiently and effectively.
Breastfeeding at Work - Know Your Rights
Under the Employment Relations Act 2000 (Part 6BA), New Zealand employers must provide reasonable breaks and appropriate facilities for an employee who wishes to breastfeed or express milk at work, so far as is reasonable and practicable. As a mum, it's essential to know your rights and choose a breast pump that is comfortable and efficient for expressing at work. You can contact the Employment New Zealand helpline (0800 20 90 20) for more information and support.
Paid Parental Leave - What You Need to Know
New Zealand offers up to 26 weeks of government-funded paid parental leave. As a mum, it's essential to plan ahead and choose a breast pump that is comfortable and efficient for expressing during this time. You can visit the Inland Revenue website for more information on paid parental leave and how to apply.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, choosing the right Medela pump flange size is essential for comfortable and efficient expressing. By following our step-by-step guide and trying out the flange, you can ensure a good fit and prevent nipple trauma. For more information on breast pumps and breastfeeding, check out our guide to Hospital Grade Wearable Breast Pump NZ or our guide to Best Portable Bottle Warmer NZ. Shop TheRelievoo Wearable Pump today and experience the comfort and efficiency of a well-fitting flange.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How to know breast pump flange size?
A: Measure your nipple diameter using a ruler or a nipple gauge and choose a flange size that is 1-2 mm larger. -
Q: What is the smallest breast pump flange size?
A: The smallest breast pump flange size varies depending on the brand and model, but Medela offers sizes as small as 21mm. -
Q: What happens if breast pump flange is too small?
A: A flange that is too small can cause nipple trauma and reduce milk flow. -
Q: What flange size do I need for Medela?
A: Refer to Medela's website for a detailed size chart, and choose a size that is 1-2 mm larger than your nipple diameter. -
Q: Does flange size matter for manual pump?
A: Yes, flange size is important for both manual and electric pumps to ensure a comfortable fit and efficient milk expression. -
Q: How do I know what size breast pump flange to use?
A: Measure your nipple diameter and choose a flange size that is 1-2 mm larger, and try out the flange to ensure a comfortable fit.
Written by Charlotte Reid, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (Auckland, New Zealand)
Charlotte is an IBCLC and mum of two based in Auckland. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ New Zealand families with breastfeeding, expressing and the return-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo New Zealand guides in-house with the product team. She is a member of La Leche League New Zealand.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Aroha Mitchell, MBChB (Auckland)
