How to Choose the Right Breast Pump Flange: Comfort Redefined with the Hegen Breast Pump

Being a breastfeeding mother is often an emotional journey filled with challenges. Many moms begin their pumping journey with high hopes, eager to build a generous milk supply for their little ones. Yet, it’s not uncommon to feel frustrated when every pumping session brings pain or discomfort. The milk output may seem minimal, the soreness unbearable, and before long, the exhaustion sets in, sometimes even leading to thoughts of giving up.

What many don’t realize is that the problem doesn’t always stem from the pump’s suction strength, but rather from using a breast pump flange that doesn’t fit properly. A flange that’s too small or too large can cause nipple abrasions, breast swelling, and even block milk flow.

The good news is that comfort during pumping can actually begin with one simple step, learning how to choose the right flange size.

The Importance of Flange Size for Comfort and Milk Production

The breast pump flange serves as a bridge between the breast and the pump, helping express milk efficiently. When the size fits correctly, the flange applies gentle and even pressure around the areola, allowing milk to flow smoothly without causing pain or tissue damage.

On the other hand, an ill-fitting flange can cause a range of issues. A flange that’s too small forces the nipple to rub against the sides of the tunnel, leading to irritation or cracks. A flange that’s too large pulls in too much of the areola, disrupting suction and making milk expression less effective. Beyond physical discomfort, this imbalance can interfere with the let-down reflex, the body’s natural response that helps release milk.

That’s why choosing the right flange should always be based on each mother’s unique nipple size and shape. It’s also important to note that nipple size may change after childbirth, meaning the flange that once felt comfortable may no longer fit after a few months.

Understanding your nipple size and adjusting your flange accordingly is key to ensuring comfort and maintaining a steady milk supply.

How to Measure Nipple Size to Find the Perfect Flange Fit

Source: Hegen

Learning how to choose the right breast pump flange begins with properly measuring your nipple size. The process is simple, all you need is a small ruler or a digital measuring tool. Measure the diameter of your nipple (excluding the areola) in millimeters. Then, add 2–3 mm to that measurement to determine your ideal flange size.

For example, if your nipple diameter is 18 mm, a flange size of 20–21 mm will generally provide the best fit.

Here are a few signs that your flange may not be the right size:

• Your nipples feel sore or painful after pumping.

• Milk output remains low even after pumping for a sufficient duration.

• Too much of your areola is being drawn into the flange tunnel.

• Your breasts still feel full after finishing a pumping session.

Think of the flange as a glove. If it’s too small, your movements feel restricted and uncomfortable. If it’s too large, it loses its grip and becomes inefficient. The same applies to breast pump flanges, the right fit allows for a natural, gentle pumping rhythm that feels comfortable and productive.

Hegen Electric Pump: An Ergonomic Solution for Every Breast Shape

Once you understand the importance of proper flange sizing, it’s time to explore a solution designed for ultimate comfort, the Hegen Electric & Manual Pump.

Unlike conventional pumps with hard plastic flanges that can cause discomfort, Hegen features a full silicone flange that gently follows the natural contour of the breast. 

Its innovative SoftSqround™ flange design offers exceptional comfort and adaptability for every mom. Available in five different sizes, the uniquely shaped Hegen sqround™ flange can be adjusted to fit various breast shapes. Simply tilt it into a diamond position for the best seal and optimal pumping results, combining comfort, efficiency, and thoughtful design in one elegant solution.

The Built-in Anti-Colic Air Vent System technology helps minimize the amount of air entering during pumping, preserving the quality of breast milk while ensuring comfort for moms. The suction power of the Hegen Electric Pump is designed to be gentle yet effective, maintaining an optimal let-down reflex without causing pain.

Many mothers have shared that after switching to Hegen, they were able to pump longer, more comfortably, and noticed a significant increase in milk output.

Tips for a Comfortable and Efficient Pumping Experience

Beyond choosing the right flange, a few small adjustments can make your pumping sessions much more pleasant and productive:

• Sit in a relaxed, comfortable position with your breasts well-supported.

• Use a hands-free or pumping support bra to keep the flange steady without constant holding.

• Warm your breasts with a warm compress or gentle massage before pumping to stimulate milk flow.

• Create a calming atmosphere, listen to soothing music, inhale a relaxing scent, or enjoy skin-to-skin contact with your baby.

• Use a pump with a natural suction rhythm like the Hegen Electric Pump, which mimics a baby’s suckling pattern to naturally trigger your body’s let-down reflex.

• Express milk directly into the Hegen PPSU Bottle, eliminating the need to transfer milk between containers. This method maintains hygiene, prevents contamination, and preserves the full nutritional value of your milk.

Also read: 10 Safe Tips for Bottle-Feeding Breast Milk Without Nipple Confusion

Comfort Is the Key to Smooth Milk Flow

Moms, choosing the right breast pump flange is far from trivial. The right size and shape don’t just determine comfort, they also play a crucial role in milk production and quality. A properly fitted flange keeps your breasts healthy, prevents pain, and helps you feel confident during every pumping session.

With the Hegen Electric & Manual Pump, you’ll never have to compromise between comfort and efficiency. Its soft silicone flange provides a natural, skin-like feel, almost like direct breastfeeding, while its ergonomic design ensures every session flows smoothly and pain-free.

Hegen also features the ESF system (Express – Store – Feed), allowing you to express milk directly into the BPA-free PPSU bottle, store it safely, and feed your baby right away without transferring containers. This design promotes hygiene, saves time, and preserves every drop of milk with its full nutritional value intact.

With Hegen, every pumping moment becomes gentler, simpler, and more meaningful, because every drop of breast milk is an expression of love, and every mother deserves comfort while giving it.