Pump vent

[rhiOrion]

Grr. Why can't pump manufacturers make smaller flanges? Why does it have to be an insert that goes into the regular flange? How much more difficult can it be to just make flanges of different sizes?

Putting the reducing insert into the flange is a total PITA. It makes it so I can't see if my nipple is centered in the flange or not. So, I rarely end up using it, which hurts my poor nipples because so much gets sucked in.

So annoyed.

[cakemama579]

Are you using a softer flange? I remember when I first started pumping the flanges that came with my pump were a hard plastic. I upgraded to a softer, flexible flange and it was much easier on the girls.

Just a thought that it might be a way to get rid of the inserts? Also, have you tried a lighter setting-- one that doesn't milk you to death? Maybe the pressure is to much.

[texmati]

what kind of pump are you useing? My medela one has a smaller flange that just fits into the connector, but I had to special order them.

[Ellien C]

I second TM's comment. I just bought smaller flanges after my mold incident with the PIS. They ARE a lot more comfortable. Somehow I feel like I'm pumping less though.

[rhiOrion]

I have a Lansinoh/AmedaPY.

As far as I can tell the only option to make the flanges smaller are the reducing inserts.

The areola stimulator soft thingies also make it slightly smaller, but I never get as much milk with those (weird, huh?)

[texmati]

Originally Posted by rhiOrion

I have a Lansinoh/AmedaPY.

As far as I can tell the only option to make the flanges smaller are the reducing inserts.

The areola stimulator soft thingies also make it slightly smaller, but I never get as much milk with those (weird, huh?)

Yeah... I was afraid you were going to say that. hmmm... I wonder if the medela horn's would fit anyways?

There are also manufacturer's that make totally different horns that might be compatible. Gosh! I wish i could remember the name. They are horns that slant, so you don't have to be hunched over all the time.

[texmati]

Found it! but these are also inserts, although they look different from what you describe. They do say they come in 3 sizes.

[BeautyforAshes]

Whatever bell/flange/horn you use, I would recommend using the Lansinoh Breast Care ointment on your nipples before pumping. It protects nipples and helps reduce friction/irritation, and I thought it was great.