COMFY Tips for Pumping

We will never stop sharing how important it is for a pumping mom to have the appropriately sized flange!

It's not only crucial for efficient milk removal and breastmilk supply maintenance, but also saves the mom a ton of pain and frustration.

Any tip that makes pumping and lactation easier is a win in our book! That's why we love the "C.O.M.F.Y." acronym from Aeroflow Breastpump company:

C-Centered nipple which moves freely.

This nipple should rest comfortably within the flange and have free movement the entire time. If you notice it's pulling to one side or another, break suction and recenter the nipple.

O-Only a little or no areola tissue pulled into the tunnel.

Your nipple should be the only tissue within the flange itself during pumping. A small amount of aerola is fine, but we want to keep it to a minimum!

M-Motion of the breast is gentle and rhythmic with each pump cycle

The nipple should be able to glide in rythmn with the pump. If you notice it "off beat", so to speak, catching, or kind of choppy, it might be time to reposition or check the size to make sure everything is the correct size. And yes, you can check BOTH nipples, as they can often be different sizes!

F-Feels comfortable while pumping (even with round-the-clock use)

We give the same speech to our exclusively breastfeeding clients: It might not feel wonderful, but it SHOULD NOT be painful, especially after the first week or two. If there are signs of irritation, pain, soreness, tenderness, etc, go ahead and check with an IBCLC. If you've checked the sizing of the flange and it is correct, an lactation professional can help you troubleshoot other things.

Y-Yields a well-drained breast

We are putting in all this work because we believe it it WORTH it for our babies. Your breasts should be fully drained (or very nearly so) after a full pumping session. while you can't always go off of "feel", most moms can feel a difference between a breast that is full of milk and one that has been drained. It's softer, and feels less heavy. So if you aren't seeing reasonable outputs from your pumping sessions, double check your pumping setup.

***Remember that portable pumps, while amazing options are not intended to use as a primary pump.

Remember, a flange that is not properly sized can lead to soreness, nipple tissue damage, plugged cuts and lower milk supply. And there are various types of flanges that may be a better "fit" for you as well. Consider these options:

Medela Flex Shield Flange-many of our clients prefer these over the standard flanges

LacTeck BabyMotion Flange-Great for elastic nipples

Pumpin Pal

BeauGen Breastpump Cushion- Can help you get a more custom fit

Our lactation team is always around to help you find the best solutions for your feeding goals.

We offer a 15-minute virtual flange fitting appointment-it's super easy to set up and makes a world of difference for pumping mamas!

You can also purchase our NipStrip tool that is designed to accurately measure nipples, which you can purchase HERE.

(If you are a medical provider and would like to make a bulk order for your office, please contact us directly through our email, info@richmondbirthandbaby.com).

We also offer 60-minute virtual, in-home or office appointments HERE. This includes a flange size fitting check as well as help designing a personal pumping schedule that actually works around your busy life.

Not sure what your insurance will cover? While we work with most plans, you can use our simple form to find out EXACTLY what lactation services are covered for you right HERE.