Signs Your Breast Pump Flange Doesn’t Fit – and What to Do
A well-fitting flange is one of the most important — yet most overlooked — parts of a successful pumping journey. If your flange doesn’t fit correctly, you may experience pain, poor milk output, or even long-term damage to your breast tissue.
This guide will help you identify the signs that your breast pump flange doesn’t fit, explain how to measure your nipple size, and share tips for choosing the right size — especially for Pakistani moms using wearable pumps like the Muminity Aura Wearable.
Why Flange Fit Matters
The flange (also called a breast shield) is the cone-shaped part that fits over your nipple and areola during pumping. A good fit ensures:
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Comfortable pumping sessions
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Efficient milk removal
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No nipple or skin trauma
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Better milk supply over time
Thumbnail Image: A Pakistani mom looking uncomfortable while using a breast pump flange. Visual elements like red alert icons, warning triangles, or sweat drops show something is wrong.
Signs Your Flange Doesn’t Fit Properly
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s likely your flange size is incorrect:
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Pain or discomfort while pumping
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Nipple rubbing against the sides of the tunnel
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Nipple not moving freely during suction
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Areola being pulled in too far
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Redness, swelling, or bruising after pumping
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Low milk output even after a full session
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Blisters or cracking on nipples
Inside Image 1: A visual chart comparing correct flange fit vs too small and too large. Arrows show nipple placement inside the flange tunnel with notes like “Too Tight,” “Correct Fit,” and “Too Loose.”
How to Measure for the Correct Flange Size
Flange sizing is based on your nipple diameter (not the areola). Here’s how to measure it correctly:
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Use a ruler or nipple sizing tool
Measure the width of your nipple (not including areola) in millimeters after a feeding or pumping session. -
Add 2–4mm
This gives your nipple space to move freely without rubbing the sides. -
Choose a flange close to that number
For example, if your nipple measures 17mm, your flange size will likely be 19–21mm.
Inside Image 2: Infographic-style graphic showing step-by-step measurement using a ruler or printable guide, followed by a chart that maps nipple size (in mm) to recommended flange sizes (e.g., 14mm → 17–18mm flange). Include icons for ruler, caliper, flange.
Common Flange Sizes and What Muminity Offers
Most pumps come with standard 24mm or 28mm flanges, but these sizes do not fit all moms. In fact, studies show more than 50% of women need smaller flanges.
The Muminity Aura Wearable includes multiple flange sizes (16mm to 24mm) and offers guidance to help you get the right fit.
Tips for a Better Flange Fit
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Check fit regularly – Your nipple size can change over time, especially after delivery.
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Use nipple balm – Prevents friction and cracking.
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Watch your nipple movement – It should move freely in and out, not rub the sides.
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Test different sizes – A slight size change can make a big difference in comfort and output.
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Use a soft silicone insert – If between sizes, some moms find inserts helpful.
Final Thoughts
Flange fit is not a one-size-fits-all situation. If your pump hurts or doesn’t feel right, it’s not your fault it’s probably the flange. With the right size and proper technique, you’ll experience more comfort, better milk flow, and a more enjoyable pumping journey.
To simplify the process, the Muminity Aura Wearable Pump comes with multiple flange sizes and local support, so you can find your perfect fit without the guesswork.
