Breastpump Flange Fitting
Science supports what mothers already knew: a properly fitting flange will get the most milk in the least amount of time with NO PAIN!
According to a study printed in The Journal of Human Lactation in November 2024, using a flange size based on nipple face measurement (compared to the “standard” sizes that come with pumps) increases the efficiency and effectiveness of pumping, while minimizing or eliminating pain and nipple injury.
Can it really matter that much?
Listen, if you’re going to be pumping one time a day or twelve, you deserve optimal comfort and output. Parents often can’t believe the improvement in their experience after investing in a flange fitting.
Couldn’t I just do this myself?
Absolutely! As Pediatricians, Nurses and Lactation Consultants are spreading the news far and wide about the new evidence-based recommendations, after-market kits are appearing on the internet to allow folks to complete this process themselves.
In fact, I’ve put together a kit as well. IMHO mine is superior to the ones on Amazon because you get flange inserts in 1mm increments, because every mm matters!
So what happens in a flange fitting consult?
Hillary will get out her “kit” which includes 50+ flanges made by multiple manufacturers in many shapes and alllll the sizes! Each has been washed, soaked in bleach and carefully steam-sterilized between fittings. We take our “best guess” at your measurement, and get pumping! With feedback from you on comfort and measurement of milk output we try different sizes and shapes incrementally until we get that “wow” moment! Most flanges are available for purchase directly from The Happy Baby in our store and consults of this nature usually take about 45 minutes.
It’s like Say Yes To The Dress but for breast pump flanges. Less sequins and beading, but still can be fun.
Hillary has undergone extra training and education to understand the factors influencing pumping effectiveness, how to choose flanges and operate pumps according to Jeanette Frem’s FITTS guide.