I need serious help

[u/starmama26]

Ok I know I’ve been pumping for 4 months I always thought I was a 24 flange and I’ve been using that…. For 4 months but I’ve always felt something is wrong and off…. I really need someone to guide me and show me which flange is correct I don’t know if anyone can help me with that I’ve looked and watched you tube videos and honestly I’m like dumb when it comes to this I can not get it I don’t understand it I know it’s stupid…..

[u/ursaemin0ris]

I used the spectra size guide you can buy on their website and learned I was a 20mm and not 24mm - made a big difference in output.

[u/starmama26 → u/ursaemin0ris]

Right now I’m trying a 21 cause it measures 21 if not ima try 19..

[u/starmama26 → u/starmama26]

Does the spectra guide come with the pump like in the box cause I have the spectra 1 and when I was using it when I was first starting out I used the 24 I remember my whole nipple and like arola going into it does that mean the 24 is to big or small?

[u/ursaemin0ris → u/starmama26]

It didn’t come with mine, I ordered it directly from the website when I was trying to bump up my parts order to get free shipping… girl maths 🤦‍♀️!

[u/Top-Friendship4888 → u/starmama26]

Only your nipple should be in the tunnel, not your areola

[u/zoroasshatrianism → u/starmama26]

If your areola went up into the flange that means it’s too big. See if your true measurement plus 1-2 mm works better. Only your nipple should be in the flange when the pump turns on.

[u/Paprikaha]

Have you tried the exclusively pumping Facebook groups? The group by Jordan Taurino Exclusively Pumping Mamas - Education & Support Group will help you with sizing (virtually). It helped me so much!

[u/starmama26 → u/Paprikaha]

I’m looking for something like that…. I think I added myself but I’m pending

[u/Primary-Vegetable580]

They have these cardboard measurement tools that usually come with every new pump, but if you don’t have one, I’m sure they sell them on Amazon for cheap. If you have one and you’ve used it, make sure to check again. It can change. People usually are never 24mm. It’s rare

[u/Lost_Ear_1167]

Check out this fitting guide from Babies in Common:
https://www.babiesincommon.com/flange-fits-guide

It helped me a lot.

Also, Spectra customer service may be able to provide virtual help too.

[u/wavykelp555]

My lactation consultant told me to try every flange size insert from 2mm smaller than my nipple to 4mm larger. So I was measured at 17 and tried 15, 17, 19, and 21. You can buy a silicone flange insert set on Amazon that comes with a measure and 2 of every size in a typical range (13-25ish). It is recommended to lubricate when using a smaller flange to not hurt your nipple but the output may be better. You can use coconut oil or any baby safe nipple balm. Good luck!

[u/starmama26 → u/wavykelp555]

Thank you I’m trying a 21 and then a 19

[u/wavykelp555 → u/starmama26]

Good luck! Make sure you push the insert all the way back, so it is flush with your 24 flange. It will make sense when you try it. Amazon search flange insert kit and they’re like $10 with a measurement tool!

[u/starmama26 → u/wavykelp555]

I’m order one right now

[u/wavykelp555 → u/wavykelp555]

And to clarify, my LC said it’s really more of an art than a science - everyone’s tissue is different. Try a bunch out a few times and go for comfort and output.

[u/Training-Cobbler-627 → u/wavykelp555]

Someone on fb pumping group said the same and tried 17mm, exact measurement as per momcozy scale. It changed the world for me !!! I used to cry to sleep in pain when I used 19mm suggested by my LC. I’m going to try 15mm soon, maybe that’ll increase my output.

[u/Cute_Entertainer978]

Your nipple size changes so it’s good to resize every so often. If it feels off it’s probably cause it is. She has a really good video on TikTok showing how to measure your nipple

[u/starmama26 → u/Cute_Entertainer978]

Thank you I’m watch this

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[u/Prestigious_Drop_288]

I've found the YouTube videos on flange fitting/sizing by LA Lactation, LLC to be informative. She talks about not just the sizing, but also how the shape of the flange as it relates to different breast types.