Finding the Right Willow Flange Size: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to pumps that can be worn, your size is extremely important

When it comes to pumps that can be worn, your size is extremely important. Wearables are not a one-size-fits-all product, and if you have ever used a conventional pump, you might discover that the flange fits of the two are not identical.) and comfort. Your pump kit comes with a standard flange measuring 24 millimeters because of this reason. In the event that an out-of-the-box flange does not work for you, these silicone inserts, which are designed for use with our silicone inserts, improve the fit and comfort of the flange. They also help ensure that you have everything you require to pump with confidence.

Using a pump that does not fit properly poses what kinds of risks? You will experience less pressure on the alveoli and less stimulation overall if your flange is too large, which can lead to insufficient emptying of the lungs. Leaving milk behind can also result in a reduction in the amount of milk that is available.

It is possible that your nipple will rub against the tunnel if your flange is too small. This has the potential to cause discomfort, pain, and compressed milk ducts, which will restrict the ability to empty.

Through the stages of pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reaching a steady state, your nipples will go through a series of changes in both shape and size. These changes will occur as you transition from one stage to the next. It is not uncommon to require a different custom flanges  size on multiple occasions before you reach the end of your pumping journey. Therefore, you should be prepared to measure multiple times, and it is possible that you will need to replace your flanges or inserts each time. It is possible that after that, they will be larger than they will be for the majority of your journey through the process of breastfeeding and pumping. If you are sized in the hospital, this is the stage when your nipples are most likely at their largest. Therefore, you should resize again in a few weeks, ideally between six and eight weeks after giving birth.

In a nutshell? You should take your measurements once more after six to eight weeks (you should have reached a "steady state" at this point), as it is possible that your nipples will be smaller than they were right after you gave birth. If you are sized at the hospital, you should take your measurements again. Following that, take a measurement whenever you experience any kind of pain, discomfort, or a shift in supply.

To begin, you should take a measurement whenever you experience any discomfort while pumping or if you notice a sudden change in the amount of milk that is being produced. Additionally, the size of these measurements may change as you progress through the process of breastfeeding.

In addition, before you place an order for replacement accessories, we strongly suggest that you remeasure your size to ensure that it is still accurate.

What other factors apart from nipple size have an effect on fit?

The elasticity of your skin and the sensitivity of your breast tissue are also factors that should be considered when searching for the perfect fit. It is possible that you will discover that it is more comfortable and effective to use a flange or insert that is bigger or smaller than the size that you have measured.

Can you explain what a custom flanges  is and how it functions?

A flange is a funnel that is shaped like a cone and typically ends in a tunnel. It is designed to create a vacuum that allows milk to be transmitted because it seals over your nipple and breast. The diameter (or width) of your nipple is used to determine your size, not your areola, which is a common misconception!

The Willow Go is available in a 27mm flange in addition to the 21mm and 24mm flanges that come standard with it. The third Willow. The flange measuring 24 millimeters is the one that you will use with an insert for both pumps.

 

In what way do you require an insert?

 

  1. With the help of years of sizing data (more than 300 thousand women have pumped with Willow

  2. We are aware that the majority of mothers find that a 17mm or 19mm insert provides the best fit, and that they rarely require a size that is larger than 24mm

  3. If you are using Willow Go and the diameter of your flange is 21 millimeters, you can use the flange that is included in your kit; you do not need an insert



There is no getting around the fact that the sizing of wearable pumps is an art! To be more specific, how does that operate? It is recommended that you use a 24mm flange in conjunction with a 19mm insert if your nipples measure 17mm.

When it comes to wearables, you will require a fit that is more snug than what you might be accustomed to with a conventional pump. The majority of mothers discover that increasing their nipple size by one to three millimeters (or by zero to two millimeters if they are pumping with the Willow 3.0) results in optimal output and comfort.

How can I tell if I have the right size for me?


The customer service team at Willow is able to assist you in resolving any fit-related issues.

In the event that you have struggled to accurately measure your nipples using a measurement tool that you have at home and are uncertain as to whether or not your flange fits correctly, you may find that the Willow Fit Check is beneficial to you.

Additionally, you have the option of scheduling a virtual visit with SimpliFed in order to speak with a lactation analyst.

The information regarding nipples

Nuptial fact number two: Elasticity can have an effect on sizing. At the same time that some nipples expand longer, others stretch wider. The length of time that a woman breastfeeds can also have an effect on the elasticity. For the purpose of preventing their nipples from being pulled too far into the flange and mushrooming, we advise mothers who use elastic materials to use an insert size that is as snug as possible. For this reason, if you are having trouble finding a fit that is both comfortable and results in optimal output, it is a good idea to experiment with a number of different sizes.

It's possible that this is the most significant of all the nipple facts available! There is a proverb that goes, "If it's not broken, don't fix it." 


Karen Dansie

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