When to measure nipples for breastfeeding?

Understanding When to Measure Nipples for Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial process for both mothers and infants, providing essential nutrients and fostering a strong bond between them. However, for many mothers, the journey can come with challenges, particularly when it comes to ensuring a proper latch and comfort during feeding. One important aspect that can influence these factors is the measurement of nipples, which can help in selecting the right breastfeeding accessories, such as nipple shields or breast pump flanges.
Timing for Measurement
The best time to measure your nipples is during pregnancy, ideally in the third trimester. This timing allows expectant mothers to prepare adequately for breastfeeding before the baby arrives. Measuring at this stage can help in selecting the appropriate size for nipple shields or breast pump flanges, which are crucial for a comfortable breastfeeding experience. It’s important to note that nipple size can change due to hormonal fluctuations, swelling, and other factors during pregnancy and postpartum, so measurements taken during this time may not be final.
How to Measure
To measure your nipples accurately, follow these steps:
1. Gather Materials: You will need a flexible measuring tape or a ruler.
2. Positioning: Stand in front of a mirror to get a clear view. It’s best to measure when your breasts are not engorged, as this can affect size.
3. Measurement: Measure the diameter of the nipple from one side to the other at its widest point. This will give you a baseline size.
4. Consider Variability: Keep in mind that nipple size can vary throughout the day and with different levels of arousal or engorgement. It’s normal to get different measurements at different times.
Postpartum Considerations
After giving birth, it’s advisable to re-measure your nipples, especially if you encounter issues such as pain or difficulty latching. Changes in nipple size and shape can occur due to breastfeeding, and understanding these changes can help in addressing any challenges. For instance, mothers with flat or inverted nipples may need specific strategies or tools to assist with latching.
Using Nipple Shields
If you find that breastfeeding is painful or if your baby is having trouble latching, nipple shields can be a helpful solution. These silicone devices can ease some common breastfeeding challenges, but it’s crucial to ensure that the shield fits properly. Measuring your nipples can help in selecting the right size shield, which can significantly improve comfort and feeding success.
Conclusion
Measuring your nipples is a proactive step in preparing for breastfeeding. By taking measurements during pregnancy and reassessing postpartum, mothers can better equip themselves to handle the challenges of breastfeeding. This preparation not only enhances the breastfeeding experience but also supports the health and well-being of both mother and child.

Can elastic nipples affect milk supply?

For moms with more elasticity than average, our flanges may be uncomfortable, the tissue inside the tunnel may stretch out, pulling in areola and restricting milk flow.

How do I know if my nipples are too big to breastfeed?

The size and shape of your nipples do not affect your ability to breastfeed. Most babies can breastfeed no matter what mom’s nipple is like. Some women have nipples that turn inward instead of pointing outward or that are flat and do not stick out.

When should I measure my nipples for a breast pump?

Measure one hour before or one hour after a breastfeeding or pumping session.

Do I measure nipples before or after pumping?

Some moms feel comfortable sizing up or down and changing sizes throughout their breastfeeding journey. Nipple size can fluctuate and can vary from side to side. We recommend measuring before pumping or nursing then adding 3-5mm to the diameter. Here’s our helpful fitting flange guide.

How do I know when to change flange size?

If your nipple is stretching beyond the halfway point of the flange tunnel and you’re feeling pain or pump less milk, then you may have elastic nipples and will want to consider increasing or decreasing your flange size.

What do nipples look like if the flange is too big?

When a flange is too large, part or all of the areola gets sucked inside the flange tunnel while pumping, and the nipple pulses on top like a little nipple mountain. That signals to me that the flange is too large.

How do you know when to size up baby nipples?

If your baby is ready to move up to a faster flow nipple, they may show these signs:

1. Taking longer to finish eating.
2. Fast sucking with not many swallows (bottle nipple may collapse)
3. Getting fussy while eating.

Do you get less milk if flange is too big?

A flange that’s too big or too small can actually block your milk ducts, reducing the amount of milk you can pump. The wrong flange fit also can lead to engorgement, clogged ducts, milk blisters, and a decrease in your milk supply. Not to mention, it can be pretty painful!

Do you size up or down with elastic nipples?

The biggest challenge with elastic nipples is finding the right size and style of flange. If you have been using the wrong size flange the edema in your nipples could complicate sizing, and require sizing down multiple times as the swelling is reduced.

Do nipples go back to original size after breastfeeding?

Many women wonder do nipples go back to normal after pregnancy. Breastfeeding can cause the nipples to stretch and become more elongated. Sometimes the nipples will go back to normal after pregnancy, but not always.