The Secret to Comfortable Pumping: Finding Your Perfect Flange Fit

Many breastfeeding parents believe that feeling sore or uncomfortable while pumping is just part of the experience. But that’s not true. Pumping should feel comfortable, gentle, and effective. It should never be something you simply “get used to.”

At Virtual Breastfeeding, our goal is to help every parent feel supported and confident in their feeding journey. One important part of that support is making sure your breast pump fits properly — because when it doesn’t, even the best pump can cause discomfort and reduce milk flow.

Why Flange Fitting Matters

Your flange, the part of the breast pump that fits over your nipple, plays a big role in how efficiently and comfortably your milk is expressed. Using the wrong size can lead to pain, swelling, or even problems like nipple trauma and mastitis.

Many parents use the standard flange size that comes with their pump, often 24 mm or 28 mm, without realizing it may not fit correctly. A poor fit can make pumping uncomfortable and less effective.

Here’s what proper flange fitting can do for you:

• The nipple tip matters most. The best way to find the right size is by measuring the nipple tip, not the base or the areola.

• Smaller flanges are often better. Many parents discover that smaller sizes feel more comfortable and improve milk flow.

• Better fit, better results. The right flange size can increase milk volume, improve comfort, and reduce the risk of nipple trauma or blocked ducts.

When your flange fits correctly, you’ll notice the difference — pumping becomes more comfortable, milk flow improves, and your sessions feel easier and more productive.

Flange Fitting Support Through Virtual Breastfeeding

At Virtual Breastfeeding, we know that every parent’s body and pumping experience is unique. That’s why we offer specialized support for flange fitting, both in person and online.

One of our experienced lactation consultants, Amy Sharp, IBCLC, provides personalized flange fitting consultations for clients in the Seattle, Washington area, as well as virtual consults for parents nationwide.

During an in-home session, Amy brings a complete setup of flange sizes and styles so parents can pump in real time to find what feels best. Together, you’ll look at suction comfort, milk flow, and nipple movement to determine the most comfortable and effective fit. Afterward, Amy provides personalized recommendations so you can easily purchase the right products from your preferred retailer.

For those outside Seattle, Amy also offers virtual consultations where she walks parents through measuring, assessing fit, and adjusting pump settings to achieve the same great results at home.

Our Goal

Whether in person or online, the goal of Virtual Breastfeeding is to make pumping comfortable, efficient, and stress-free. Each consultation is designed to help parents feel supported, confident, and empowered throughout their breastfeeding journey.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Fit?

If you’re in the Seattle area, you can schedule an in-home flange fitting consultation with Amy Sharp, IBCLC. Prefer to connect virtually? Virtual Breastfeeding also offers nationwide online consults to help you find the right fit from the comfort of your home.

With expert guidance and compassionate support, you can finally experience how comfortable and effective pumping can be.

Comfort. Confidence. Better milk flow. It all starts with the right fit — and the right support.

Ready to Book a Lactation Consult?

We offer same-day or next-day virtual and in-home appointments — your comfort, your choice. Book online at www.virtualbreastfeeding.com or call 619-327-9354 to schedule your session today.

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Reference: Rasmussen, K. M., et al. (2025). Flange Fit and Pumping Comfort: Implications for Milk Expression Efficiency. Journal of Human Lactation, 41(1), 54–64.