What is the standard Medela flange size?

24 mm
The 24 mm breast shield is the standard shield that comes with Medela breast pumps. However, nipple size can vary and some women benefit from a size other than the 24 mm.

What is the smallest Medela flange?

21mm
The smallest flange size Medela has is 21mm.

How do I know what flange size I need?

The size of the flange you need is the size of your nipple. You can measure yours using a ruler or measuring tape. Be sure to measure the diameter of the nipple alone—do not include the areola.

How do I know my breast flange size?

To determine the best flange size for you, you’ll need to measure your nipple. Take a tape measure or ruler and measure the diameter, or width across, of your nipple in millimeters. Do not include measurements for your areola, the larger part around your nipple. Select your flange size based on your measurement.

How do I know if my flange is too big?

If your breast pump flange is too big you may experience: Painful nipple pinching, pulling, and squeezing. Lower breast milk production. Your nipple or areola could become white or discolored.

Is there a flange smaller than 21?

Yes! The general guidance for flange fit is to add between 2 and 4mm to your measurement so there is a bit of space between your nipple and the flange tunnel. They are available in 15, 17 and 19mm and fit perfectly in the 24mm flange or Container.

How does flange size affect pumping?

Not having the correct flange size could impact your milk flow by causing harm to the breast tissue, blocked milk ducts, pain, nipple damage, swelling, or cuts on the nipple. But with finding the right flange, you can comfortably maximize milk production.

What size flange should I use when pumping?

If your nipple measures 16 mm in diameter, your recommended breast shield size is 21 mm. This is because the 21 mm shield fits nipples up to 17 mm in diameter. If your nipple diameter measures 24 mm, your recommended size would be 30 mm.

Can the wrong flange size affect milk output?

Having the wrong size flange can impact milk supply and lead to soreness or clogged milk ducts. Having correct contact with the nipple and breast tissue is incredibly important for adequate suction and milk production.

Can flange size affect milk output?

Does flange size affect milk output?

What is a breast pump shield?

Breast pumps include a breast shield that fits over the nipple, a pump that creates a vacuum to express (or pump) milk, and a detachable container for collecting milk.

What are breast shields?

Nipple shields. A nipple shield is a flexible silicone nipple that is worn over the mom’s nipple during a feeding. Nipple shields should in general be considered a short-term solution and should be used under the guidance of a lactation consultant. Often, nipple shields are recommended within the first few days of birth.

What is a breast shield?

A breast shield, also known as a breast flange, fits over your nipple while pumping. It helps express milk from your breast by creating a seal around your areola. The suction from the pump draws your nipple into the tunnel and expresses milk—which collects in the bottles that attach to the shield.