Whether you’re struggling with discomfort from generic flanges or facing unique challenges like me, discovering the perfect flange has the potential to revolutionize your pumping journey. The world of pumping is a diverse one, with each person’s experience being entirely unique. Allow me to share my personal voyage as an exclusive pumper and navigating through the world of finding the perfect flange.
Six years ago, I exclusively pumped for my son. The experience was challenging as I had to pump while he was in the NICU. Emotions ran high, stress and anxiety were constant companions, and to top it off, I was heavily medicated due to high blood pressure—a not-so-pleasant side effect of pregnancy. Exhausted and struggling to produce milk, the pumping process felt painful, with the hard Madela flanges against my skin and the constant rubbing of my nipples. It was overwhelming. In a desperate search for a solution, my lactation consultant recommended trying the phalange from PumpinPals. Willing to try anything, I made the purchase. I don’t recall how I purchased them, separately or together in a set. I did have 3 different sizes and used 2 different sizes (med/large) because my nipples were 2 different sizes. Let me tell you, it was a game-changer. The angled design of the PumpinPal flange made pumping more comfortable and significantly increased my milk output. If you’re struggling with generic flanges, I highly recommend giving these a try.
Price:
- Individual Pairs (Med-XLarge): $19.95
- Individual Pairs (Xsmall/Sm Silicone): $24.95
- Adapters: $9.95-$19.95
PROS:
- Work with most major breast pumps
- Adaptor required for brands that have connector and flange as one piece (i.e. Spectra)
- Works seamlessly with Medela pumps ( Connector and flange are separate pieces)
- Visit the PumpinPal website to confirm which pumps these flanges are compatible with.
- Angle design for increased comfort and output
- Able to lay back more without losing any milk
- Silicone option available (These were not available when I was using them)
- BPA free
- Offers 2 different sets containing 3 different size flanges (Small/large). (This can be ideal if you don’t know what size you need or if your nipple size changes over time)
- Price is comparable to Lacteck Brand
CONS:
- The silicone flanges only cover nipple sizes 15mm-25mm
- Flanges are only sold in pairs so you are forced to purchase two even if you know you have two different size nipples. (If you love them this is a non-issue because having extra flanges as an exclusive pumper is a must to prevent constant cleaning)
In conclusion, the right flanges can make a significant difference in your pumping journey. Personal experiences may vary, but it’s worth exploring options tailored to your specific needs. Remember, support from a lactation consultant can be invaluable in finding the best solution for you.
Check out my review on LacTeck flanges for baby number two!
Transparency: This is my honest review of the PumpinPals flange. This review is not endorsed by PumpinPals nor did I receive compensation to write this review.