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Maternity Pregnancy & Breastfeeding with HealthShare Insurance

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Get the Most of of Pumping with the Correct Breast Shield Flange Size

 

Every mom wants to get the most out of the time she spending pumping!  One of the best ways to make sure your pump is effective is to ensure your breast shield flange size is optimal.  An optimal fit engages the milk sinuses by compressing the areola the right way without causing nipple pain.

The infographic above shows you what to look for when you are pumping.  Most pumps including the best-selling Spectra breast pumps, include a standard flange size which is often 24mm.  Many moms find that is too large and opt for the 20mm breast flange.  And there are a few who need a larger 28mm or 32mm flange size.  But there are moms who until now had to look for another option if they needed smaller than a 20mm size.  Spectra has finally come out with a Spectra 16mm breast shield just for those moms!

In addition to using the right size flange, making sure your pump is functioning at the optimal suction level is so important.  Use your pump at the highest suction where you feel comfortable. Don't use a suction level that is uncomfortable or it will actually lessen your output because you are not relaxed.  

Opposite of having your suction at too high a level, low suction can cause less milk output as well.  This can often happen when a mother is not changing the breast pump valves and backflow protectors regularly.  These two components greatly affect your breast pump suction and therefore can greatly affect your milk supply.

So here is to comfortable, optimal pumping!
Tanya

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