
Again, the key is COMFORT! It should never be painful or uncomfortable while pumping. If that size is not comfortable, you can try the next size up or down to test comfort. Refer to your pump manufacturer to choose the closest size shield/flange available. This measurement is a great starting point for your breast shield/flange size.

If using a circular cut out tool, like the one from Pumpables, make sure that the tool itself is not tight on your nipple but also does not have so much space that it draws in your areola. Nipples tend to swell/expand during pumping, so sizing after a few minutes of pumping can help provide a more accurate size! To measure, you can use a ruler, downloadable measuring app, electric caliper, or a measuring tool from your pump manufacturer’s website! Some of these tools will measure the width of your nipple using a circular cutout or a linear tool measuring the width from each side of your nipple. Don’t be afraid to ask for help fitting a breast shield! It can be hard to get it right, your nipple size can vary from side to side, and your size can even change as you move through your pumping journey. Additionally, a flange that is too large or too small can impact milk output as well as the quantity of milk you produced over time. Getting the right fit for a flange is very important for a comfortable pumping experience. This is the plastic part of the pump that fits over the nipple to create the seal and vacuum.

Once you have selected the type of pump you plan to use, the next step is to properly fit your breast shield, also referred to as a breast flange.
