Pumping and Flange Fittings

I was pump-dependent with my first daughter and I am passionate about making pumping as efficient and effective as possible. My goal is for you to not have to spend a second more pumping than necessary. One of the best ways to do this is a full flange fitting. I normally will have you book a separate appointment for this. I have dozens of sterilized flanges (I haven't counted but I suspect about 100) that we can try in a wide range of shapes, styles, and materials. I also have elastic tissue myself and have a special interest in helping people with elastic nipples pump comfortably. 

In a flange fitting, I will have you try different sizes and shapes of flange based on your breast shape, nipple measurement, and any nipple variations (flat, inverted, bifurcated, double, etc.). I really can't tell what flange will work best for you until we try. I have worked with many patients with nipple variations. Every nipple is different and we will do a separate fitting for each side. Sometimes the flange that looks like the best fit is not the one that gives the best results. The most important factors are how it feels and how well it works.

Did you know pumping shouldn't hurt? (Or at least it should not hurt after your nipples have healed, if there has been any trauma?) There is so much we can do to make pumping more comfortable and effective, including going over pumping technique. If you are pumping regularly, we will normally cover this in the first appointment, and I may provide flange inserts until we can do a full flange fitting.

If you need to or want to pump, it has to work for you. We will figure out a plan that is sustainable. It may involve introducing a portable pump. I may be able to bring one to an appointment so you can understand how different models work and which might be best for you.

In prenatals we can also discuss which pump you should get from your insurance before your baby is born.