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Nipple Shield Sizing- how to get the best fit

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Did you know that the wrong pump flange size or nipple shield size can lesson or even decrease the amount of milk you pump or transfer?

It is so important to get the correct fit so that you are comfortable and you maximise each pumping or feeding session.

Most pumps come with a 24mm and 22mm size flange.. which often is simply to large.

As a IBCLC I find the majority of my clients are using the wrong size!

Did you know that a nipple can be a different size?- Yes sometimes you do need diiferent size for each breast.

Did you know you measure your nipple size after a pumping session?

Did you know pressing the flange to hard into your breasts can block a milk duct?

If the flange is to big your areola will be drawn  up inside and pain…. OUCH!

Here is a FREE Nipple Measure Chart from Pumpables

OR to book a flange sizing/pump consult click here

credit pic- medula.

What to expect in a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Home Visit

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Fixing breastfeeding problems is a process.  Sometimes it is a simple position adjustment that allows a deeper latch, sometimes there is a problem that will take deeper assessment, care, patience and time. 

Before your visit:

-Fill out your online questions/consent forms through the MilkNotes platform you will get a invite to.

This video can assist you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wBBWbdRom

-Make a list of ALL questions you have for me.

-Have any equipment you need help with out (pillows, pumps, bottles etc), so we can look at them together.

-I want you to be comfortable, so we can go into any room you normally feed in.

-Do not clean/tidy your house for me (ok I won’t say no to a cuppa if someone else is putting the kettle on).

– I want to see your baby feed, so try (ok I know) not to feed within the hour before my visit, so when I come your bub will eat whilst I am there for a proper assessment.

-We need to be able to chat freely without distractions and focus on you and your baby, so whilst I love older siblings if you feel that might be a challenge please organize an activity or distraction for them during our visit.

-I love pets (mad doggo person), but they can sometimes get a little territorial over you and your new baby as a stranger walks in, so please organize a space for them should you be concerned.

-Partners/other family members more than welcome.

During your visit

-I will wash my hands before we continue our consult, or before I touch you or your baby.

-Unless your bub is super hangry, we will sit firstly and go through your intake form, history, challenges and concerns.

-If possible before your baby feeds I will put gloves on and perform a oral examination and check oral function of your baby.  I am looking for normal muscle structure, neurological function, anatomy and development that is age appropriate for your baby.

-Then when your baby is ready to feed I will observe your feeding in whatever manner and position you use most frequently.

-I will also look at your nipples before and after the feed as part of my assessment of the feed.

-I may need to touch your breast to assist with improved positioning, BUT I will only do what is necessary and will always ASK for your consent first before I touch you, your breasts and your baby.

After Your Visit- In your MilkNotes Parent Portal

-I will upload for you your outcome of assessment, plan of action for your identified feeding goals, any pictures taken, referrals and report- that you can share with any other care provider.

-You have support for 1 week in a postnatal consult, and depending on what assessment and outcome is required I often touch base day 3, day 5 and 1 week after consult via email to check how you are doing.

-If I don’t hear from you I will assume all is ok.