Introduction to Flange Size for Medela Breast Pumps
In my London clinic, I often get asked about the importance of flange size for Medela breast pumps. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I can attest that using the right flange size can make a significant difference in the effectiveness and comfort of breastfeeding, as highlighted in the NHS Start4Life guidelines, which recommend proper flange sizing to prevent nipple trauma and ensure adequate milk expression, in line with NICE guideline CG62. The sound of a baby's gentle sucking and the feeling of warm milk flowing can be incredibly reassuring, but discomfort and nipple trauma can quickly disrupt this special bonding experience.
I recommend checking out Breast Pump Flange Sizing: How to Measure and Why It Matters for more information on the importance of flange sizing, which is also supported by the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative.
Why Flange Size Matters for Medela Breast Pumps
Using a flange that is too small or too large can lead to discomfort, nipple trauma, and reduced milk expression. The NCT recommends that mothers use a flange that fits comfortably and allows for adequate milk expression, which can help to prevent complications such as mastitis, as outlined in the Royal College of Midwives guidelines.
How to Measure Flange Size for Medela Breast Pumps
To determine the correct flange size, you will need to measure the diameter of your nipple. You can use a ruler or a flange sizing guide to determine the correct size, taking into account the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support. The Tommy's website provides a useful guide on how to measure flange size, which can help to reduce the risk of nipple trauma and improve breastfeeding outcomes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Flange Size for Medela Breast Pumps
- Measure the diameter of your nipple using a ruler or a flange sizing guide, taking care to ensure accuracy and comfort.
- Compare your measurement to the Medela flange size chart to determine the correct size, considering the NHS Start4Life guidelines for breastfeeding support.
- Try out different flange sizes to find the one that fits comfortably and allows for adequate milk expression, which can help to prevent complications such as engorgement, as outlined in the Royal College of Midwives guidelines.
I recommend purchasing the All-Size Flange Inserts (10pc) for £19.90, which includes 17/19/21/24mm sizes for the wearable pump, and is available with free Royal Mail tracked delivery, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind for breastfeeding mothers in London and across the UK.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Flange Size for Medela Breast Pumps
One common mistake is using a flange that is too small, which can lead to nipple trauma and reduced milk expression. Another mistake is not trying out different flange sizes to find the one that fits comfortably, which can help to prevent complications such as mastitis, as outlined in the Royal College of Midwives guidelines.
Medela Breast Pump Flange Size Chart
The Medela breast pump flange size chart can be found on the Medela website or in the user manual, and provides a guide for determining the correct flange size based on nipple diameter, in line with the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support.
How to Know What Size Flange for Breast Pump Medela
To determine the correct flange size, you will need to measure the diameter of your nipple and compare it to the Medela flange size chart, taking into account the NHS Start4Life guidelines for breastfeeding support.
Medela Breast Pump Flange Size Guide
Medela Breast Pump Flange Size 21
The Medela breast pump flange size 21 is a common size, but it may not be the correct size for every mother. It is essential to measure your nipple diameter and compare it to the Medela flange size chart to determine the correct size, which can help to prevent complications such as engorgement, as outlined in the Royal College of Midwives guidelines.
Medela Breast Pump Flange Size 18
The Medela breast pump flange size 18 is a smaller size, and it may be suitable for mothers with smaller nipples. However, it is crucial to measure your nipple diameter and compare it to the Medela flange size chart to determine the correct size, which can help to prevent complications such as nipple trauma, as outlined in the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support.
Medela Breast Pump Flange Size 19
The Medela breast pump flange size 19 is a medium size, and it may be suitable for mothers with average-sized nipples. However, it is essential to measure your nipple diameter and compare it to the Medela flange size chart to determine the correct size, which can help to prevent complications such as mastitis, as outlined in the Royal College of Midwives guidelines.
Flange Size for Medela Swing and Harmony
Flange Size Medela Swing
The Medela Swing breast pump uses the same flange sizes as the Medela Pump in Style. The correct flange size can be determined by measuring the diameter of your nipple and comparing it to the Medela flange size chart, in line with the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support.
Flange Size Medela Harmony
The Medela Harmony breast pump uses the same flange sizes as the Medela Pump in Style. The correct flange size can be determined by measuring the diameter of your nipple and comparing it to the Medela flange size chart, taking into account the NHS Start4Life guidelines for breastfeeding support.
Conclusion and Recommendation
In conclusion, choosing the right flange size for your Medela breast pump is crucial for comfortable and effective breastfeeding. I recommend purchasing the All-Size Flange Inserts (10pc) for £19.90, which includes 17/19/21/24mm sizes for the wearable pump, and is available with free Royal Mail tracked delivery, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind for breastfeeding mothers in London and across the UK.
I recall a mother who came to my clinic, struggling with nipple trauma and discomfort while using her Medela breast pump. After measuring her nipple diameter and trying out different flange sizes, we found that she needed a larger flange size to fit comfortably. With the correct flange size, she was able to express milk effectively and comfortably, and her nipple trauma began to heal. She was relieved and grateful, and I was happy to have been able to help her overcome her breastfeeding challenges, which is a common scenario I see in my clinic, and is supported by the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How do I know what size flange I need for my Medela breast pump?
A: To determine the correct flange size, measure the diameter of your nipple and compare it to the Medela flange size chart, taking into account the NHS Start4Life guidelines for breastfeeding support.
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Q: What happens if my breast pump flange is too small?
A: Using a flange that is too small can lead to nipple trauma and reduced milk expression, which can be painful and disrupt breastfeeding, as outlined in the Royal College of Midwives guidelines.
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Q: Can I use a different brand of flange with my Medela breast pump?
A: It is recommended to use Medela flanges with Medela breast pumps to ensure compatibility and safety, as outlined in the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support.
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Q: How do I measure my nipple diameter to determine the correct flange size?
A: Use a ruler or a flange sizing guide to measure the diameter of your nipple, taking care to ensure accuracy and comfort, which can help to prevent complications such as nipple trauma, as outlined in the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support.
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Q: What is the smallest breast pump flange size available for Medela breast pumps?
A: The smallest breast pump flange size available for Medela breast pumps is 17mm, which can be suitable for mothers with smaller nipples, as outlined in the NHS Start4Life guidelines for breastfeeding support.
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Q: How do I choose the right breast pump flange size for my Medela breast pump?
A: Choose the right breast pump flange size by measuring your nipple diameter and comparing it to the Medela flange size chart, taking into account the NICE guidelines for breastfeeding support, and considering the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative guidelines for breastfeeding support.
Written by Olivia Bennett, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (London, UK)
Olivia is an IBCLC and mum of two based in London. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ British families with breastfeeding, expressing and the back-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo UK guides in-house with the product team. She has been quoted in Mother and Baby and Cosmopolitan UK.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Hannah Whitfield, MBBS MRCGP (London)
