How do you know when you need a different breast flange size?
Spectra breast pumps include the most commonly fitted flange size, 24mm breastshields. Although this is the most common size, many women will fit better in other sizes. A properly sized breast shield aka breast flange is important to ensure the best performance of your pump and the most milk output. An improperly fitted breast shield can hinder milk supply and cause discomfort. To determine the shield size you need, pump for five minutes using the standard size provided with your breast pump. Your nipple will expand while milk is being expressed, therefore it is important to measure after five minutes of pumping so that the size you select will provide adequate room. After five minutes, measure the diameter of the nipples at the base with a tape measure that uses millimeters. Click the link to access a printable tape measure.
Ideally, you should select a shield size that is 2-3mm larger than this measurement, but up to 5mm may be acceptable.
Spectra flanges are available in the following sizes:
Spectra 20mm Breast Shield - Small
Spectra 24mm Breast Shield - Medium
Spectra 28mm Breast Shield - Large
Spectra 32mm Breast Shield - X-Large
See the images below for fitting examples.
Spectra breast pumps include the most commonly fitted flange size, 24mm breastshields. Although this is the most common size, many women will fit better in other sizes. A properly sized breast shield aka breast flange is important to ensure the best performance of your pump and the most milk output. An improperly fitted breast shield can hinder milk supply and cause discomfort. To determine the shield size you need, pump for five minutes using the standard size provided with your breast pump. Your nipple will expand while milk is being expressed, therefore it is important to measure after five minutes of pumping so that the size you select will provide adequate room. After five minutes, measure the diameter of the nipples at the base with a tape measure that uses millimeters. Click the link to access a printable tape measure.
Ideally, you should select a shield size that is 2-3mm larger than this measurement, but up to 5mm may be acceptable.
Spectra flanges are available in the following sizes:
Spectra 20mm Breast Shield - Small
Spectra 24mm Breast Shield - Medium
Spectra 28mm Breast Shield - Large
Spectra 32mm Breast Shield - X-Large
See the images below for fitting examples.
Ensuring the proper fitment is essential for protecting milk supply especially in moms who use their pump frequently for working or exclusive pumping. An ideal fit compresses the milk sinuses properly ensuring good milk transfer, less pain and fewer clogged milk ducts.
When purchasing new breast shields, you should also replace your duckbill valves. Duckbill valves and breast shields that are not sterilized together may not fit well causing the duckbill valves to be loose on the breast shield. Normally, Spectra valves should be replaced every 6 weeks for moms pumping 15 times per week. Backflow protectors do not need to be replaced as often but at minimum, Spectra Backflow Protectors should be replaced every 2-3 months.
Best wishes for comfortable, effective pumping!
Tanya
Lactation Connection
Lactation Connection
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