Please help my pumping frustration

AshleeDockter

so I'm trying to get the right size sheild flange thing for my pump in style I'm currently on the xl and my nipple still swells and rubs against the side so I feel like I'm not emptying as fully as I could. Any tips? I use liberation and such but I just swell so big that my nipple doesn't move freely. I am exclusively pumping and hate it but my little one isn't going back to breast easily.

hiketheworld

No advice, but I'm also exclusively pumping and my nipples hate me. They always get super swollen and red. Hope you find a solution! It's hard!

KatieOz920

Madela.com has XXL breast shields if you need a larger size

ShelleyElla22

Have you tried going smaller? Maybe they are swelling because it is too large. I am a 34J right now but only use 24 mm shields

AshleeDockter

I started off with the smallest. It's like they get stuck and can't get more out unless I'm basically hand expressing while pumping.

AshleeDockter

I do use the lowest suction possible. And I just ordered the pumping pals they will be here on Tuesday so here's hoping.

KatieOz920

It is totally normal for your nipples to swell when pumping - mine get like twice the size (doesn't happen when my LOs nurse). As long as your nipples can move freely you're using the right size (they may slightly touch the sides)- if not you may need to go a size up. If you're concerned or are having trouble you might want to consider having a LC watch you pump. I found it really helpful when I was having trouble letting down

kmlopez11

Sorry if this is a stupid question, but you will get more milk out if you use a lower suction setting?

KatieOz920

@kmlopez11‌ it's not really that you'll get more milk with a lower setting as it is you may get less milk by using too high a setting. Some women use too high a setting thinking it will make more milk come out and it ends up making their milk ducts swell and collapse making it so you can't let down

kmlopez11

Thanks for the tips!! ))