Flange Size Matters: A Comparative Pilot Study of the Flange FITS Guide Versus Traditional Sizing Methods
There is exciting news in the world of lactation; the first study to examine flanges smaller than 21mm for milk output and comfort was published in November 2024. Dr. Lisa Anders and Jeanette Mesite Frem, MHS, IBCLC, RLC, CCE, CD had a group of participants pump with standard size flanges (21mm and 24mm) that came with their breast pump and smaller flanges that were fitted with the Flange FITS Guide. The participants then recorded their milk output and comfort measures with each type of flange.
So what did they find out?
When compared to the newer, smaller-size flanges, participants using the standard size flanges had significantly less milk output and less comfort!
According to the study, flange fitting should be an individualized process and pumping parents may require a trial of one or more sizes during a pumping session to find their perfect fit. It was also found that the most reliable way to measure for flange size was to measure the tip of the nipple; not the areola, base of the nipple, or any other part of the breast.
What are the benefits to a properly fitted flange?
Comfort
Efficiency
Increased milk yield
Prevent inflammatory breast conditions on the mastitis spectrum
We are here for you at Women in Motion!
Did you know that 94% of parents feeding human milk have pumped at some point in the first year and up to 7% exclusively pump?! At Women in Motion, we believe that the best time to be fitted for flanges is when you are pumping! Our Certified Lactation Counselor has been trained by Jeanette Mesite Frem, IBCLC in the Flange FITS Guide fitting process and we offer same day flange fitting appointments. We have all flange sizes available in our clinic and you will be able to try out different sizes to find your perfect fit!
We can’t wait to support you from your first latch to your last.
Anders LA, Mesite Frem J, McCoy TP. Flange Size Matters: A Comparative Pilot Study of the Flange FITSTM Guide Versus Traditional Sizing Methods. J Hum Lact. 2024 Nov 30:8903344241296036. doi: 10.1177/08903344241296036. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39614713.
