It was like Christmas at my house!

MrMrsandBaby

I got my breast pumps (yes, pumps!) today!  I sort of love this "insurance pays for pumps" thing because I got two Medela PISA's for $10 in shipping

I do have a question though...the breast shield/flanges - is it possible you may have two different sizes?  I will ask a LC too but wondering if anyone knows?

Emerald27

Do you mean is it possible to need 2 different sizes because of differences in breast/nipple size or shape? Then yes.

Your nipple should move freely within the flange, without rubbing against the sides, and without much areola being drawn into them.

MrMrsandBaby

Yup, that is what I meant!

Also, I can't believe how looking at a bottle makes it all so real!  I was just telling DH we need to find all of our bottles and baby stuff and here I get this box today!!  Suddenly I'm more excited!

pepperpotts317

That's awesome! I just digging through my baby stuff and pulled out my last pump. So many emotions! Yes, I hated pumping, but that was such a huge part of my life for a year! I'm also getting another PISA through insurance after LO is born. 

Emerald27

PurpleHippo19 said:

Emerald27 said:

Do you mean is it possible to need 2 different sizes because of differences in breast/nipple size or shape? Then yes.

Your nipple should move freely within the flange, without rubbing against the sides, and without much areola being drawn into them.

Wait, @Emerald27, if I remember correctly, pretty much my entire areola got drawn in when pumping... is that a problem?

--------------------
Depends. That often does mean that your flange is too big. Do you feel sore after pumping? If you're having trouble figuring out whether yours fits, you can stick a flange in your hospital bag and ask the LC about the fit after you deliver LO.

Emerald27

This image is pretty helpful for determining fit. Ideally, just the nipple will be pulled into the flange, and it will move freely without rubbing against the sides. If it rubs, it's too small. If your areola goes into the flange too, it's too big:



It's important to have the best-fitting flanges both for your own comfort and for pumping efficiency. You'll have a better yield and your supply will be better maintained with a well-fitted flange.