Elastic Nipples? How to Find Your Ideal Flange Fit

Getting the right fit for your pump flange can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack—especially if you have elastic nipples. Elastic nipples are just extra stretchy nipples, and that stretchiness can make finding the perfect pump fit a little tricky. But don’t worry! In this blog, I’ll help you figure out how to find your ideal fit so you can pump more milk with less discomfort.

What Are Elastic Nipples?

Elastic nipples stretch more than average when under pressure—like when you’re pumping. If you’ve noticed your nipples getting longer and skinnier while using a pump, that’s elasticity at work.

This stretchiness pulls more of your areola (the darker skin around your nipple) into the pump flange. The higher the suction setting on your pump, the more your nipple stretches. That’s why understanding how your nipples respond to suction is the first step to finding your perfect fit.

How to Find the Perfect Pump Flange Fit

Finding the right flange fit is like finding the right pair of shoes. You can’t just grab any size off the shelf—you need to try a few to see what works best for you.

Start by creating a fit kit with a couple of different flange sizes. Over a week, test each size to see which one gives you the most milk with the least discomfort. This is especially important for elastic nipples, as their size can change based on how much suction your pump is applying.

The good news? Pump flanges now come in various shapes and sizes to fit different bodies. There’s a fit out there for you—it just takes a little experimenting to find it.

Common Pumping Mistake: Misinterpreting Pain

A common mistake is assuming that if a flange doesn’t hurt, it’s the right size. Then, when trying a smaller size that does hurt, many think it’s too small and return to a larger size.

But here’s the thing: When your flange is too big, it pulls in a lot of your areola, pinching a large area. This doesn’t hurt much because it’s a big pinch. As you size down, the flange pinches less of your areola, and the sensation can feel sharper.

If it starts to hurt, don’t jump back to a bigger size right away. Instead, try going down one more size. When the flange fits correctly, it won’t pinch your areola at all—and that’s when pumping will feel better.

Check out the two pictures below. The picture on the top shows a flange that is too big. Notice all the space around the nipple. The picture on the bottom shows a correctly fitting flange. Notice how it comfortably fits the nipple exactly.

Two Types of Pumping Pain and How to Fix Them

Pinching Pain:
This happens when your areola gets pulled into the flange and pinched.

Fix: Use a smaller flange size that only pulls in your nipple, not your areola.

Chafing Pain:
This happens when your nipple rubs against the sides of the flange.

Fix: Lubricate the inside of your flange with coconut oil, nipple cream, or ointment. Apply the lubricant evenly to prevent rubbing and keep pumping comfortable.

It can be hard to figure out exactly what's causing the discomfort based on pain alone. To know for sure, visually inspect the flange while pumping. Check to see:

Is your areola being pulled into the flange? This points to pinching pain.
Is your nipple rubbing against the sides? This points to chafing pain.

Adjusting Over Time

Your perfect flange size may not stay the same forever. Nipples can change size during your pumping journey, especially with elastic tissue.

Increased pain: If pumping starts to hurt when it didn’t before, your size might have changed.
Visible damage: Check for redness, cracking, or soreness.
Decreased milk output: If you’re not pumping as much milk as usual, your fit may no longer be effective.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right pump flange fit for elastic nipples might take a little trial and error, but it’s worth it. With the right size, you’ll pump more milk, feel less discomfort, and protect your body from long-term damage.

Remember: Every body is different, and it’s okay to take it one pump session at a time. Finding your fit is a process, but you’re well on your way to making pumping feel better for you.

Download the Free Pumping Flange Sizing Guide
Are you struggling with pumping output or discomfort? My Pumping Flange Sizing Guide will help you find the correct flange size to make pumping more effective and comfortable. With this simple guide, you’ll learn how to measure your size and maximize your milk removal.

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