10/02/2026
In order to get the pump to work at its maximum efficiency, fl**ge-fitting is necessary as a starter and standard. If a mother would like to test a breastpump, this is an important step to start with, instead of just rent a pump via postage or delivery.
Fl**ge- fitting vs Breastpump testing - an article to understand both the services
By Grace LYM, IBCLC/ RD
Many mothers encounter the terms breastpump testing and fl**ge fitting when preparing for breastfeeding, and these services are often confused or assumed to be the same. In reality, they serve different purposes and should be done at different stages. Understanding this distinction helps mothers avoid unnecessary discomfort, make informed purchasing decisions, and protect both ni**le health and milk supply.
A breastpump testing session is intended to help a mother choose a suitable breastpump model. This service focuses on the characteristics of the pump itself, such as suction strength, suction pattern, noise level, adjustability, and overall comfort. Breastpump testing can be done during pregnancy or in the early postpartum period before purchasing a pump. During the session, mothers may try different pump models to understand whether they prefer gentler or stronger suction and whether a wearable or traditional pump fits their lifestyle. Milk volume expressed during testing is not an indicator of milk supply, and fl**ge size used in these sessions is usually a standard or estimated size rather than a personalised fit.
Fl**ge fitting, in contrast, is a targeted assessment of the mother’s ni**les and their interaction with the pump. Its purpose is to identify the correct fl**ge size and type to ensure comfortable, effective, and safe pumping. Fl**ge fitting is best done after birth, once milk has come in and ni**le size and elasticity have changed from the pregnancy state. This service is especially important for mothers who already own a pump but experience pain during or after pumping, notice ni**le swelling, blanching, excessive ar**la being pulled into the tunnel, or reduced milk flow despite regular pumping. A proper fl**ge fitting session involves ni**le measurement, assessment of ni**le elasticity, observation of pumping mechanics, and adjustment of fl**ge size, material, and suction settings.
Because these two services assess different things, they are not interchangeable. Breastpump testing answers the question of which pump feels suitable, while fl**ge fitting addresses whether the pump is being used safely and effectively with the mother’s anatomy. Before booking an appointment, mothers are encouraged to check clearly with the shop or service provider which service is actually being offered. Some providers offer only pump testing, while others may combine both, but it is important to know whether a proper ni**le assessment and pumping observation will be included.
Mothers are also advised not to rush into purchasing a breastpump, especially during pregnancy. A breastpump is not essential in the first few days after birth, as colostrum is produced in small volumes and milk removal is best supported through frequent direct breastfeeding. Pump use becomes more relevant during the transition to mature milk, when milk volume increases. During the early postpartum period, the focus should be on establishing effective latch and learning hand expression. These two skills play a crucial role in managing early physiological engorgement, relieving breast fullness, and supporting milk flow before regular pumping is introduced.
For mothers who plan to pump, ni**le size should not be measured only once. Ni**le diameter and elasticity change over time, especially with ongoing pumping. Ideally, ni**le measurements and fl**ge reassessment should be done during the first week postpartum, again around three to four weeks postpartum, and then at approximately two months and three months postpartum. These time points coincide with changes in milk supply regulation and pumping frequency, which can affect ni**le response to suction.
Ongoing reassessment is particularly important for mothers who pump regularly. If pumping begins to feel painful, if more ar**la is being pulled into the fl**ge tunnel, if ni**les appear swollen or blanched, or if milk flow becomes less efficient, fl**ge fit should be reviewed again. These signs often indicate that ni**le size or pumping dynamics have changed and that adjustments are needed to prevent injury and maintain effective milk removal.
In summary, breastpump testing and fl**ge fitting are two distinct services with different roles in a mother’s breastfeeding journey. Breastpump testing helps mothers choose a pump that suits their comfort and lifestyle, while fl**ge fitting ensures that pumping remains safe, comfortable, and effective over time. Taking time to clarify available services, avoiding rushed purchases, prioritising early breastfeeding skills, and reassessing fl**ge fit as pumping continues can significantly improve both comfort and long-term breastfeeding success.
