Elastic Nipples? How to Find Your Ideal Flange Fit

If you have elastic tissue, finding the right pump flange size can feel confusing and frustrating. Maybe your nipple looks normal at rest, but once the pump turns on, everything stretches and nothing seems to fit right.

This is something I’ve seen so often with the families I’ve worked with — and if that sounds familiar, the video above walks you through it step by step. If you prefer to read instead of watch, keep scrolling. 

I’m so glad you found your way here.

Why Elastic Tissue Is Different

When you have elastic nipples, your tissue doesn’t just stretch a little—it stretches a lot. That means your nipple becomes longer and narrower under suction, which totally changes how a flange fits. If you measured your nipple at rest and picked your flange size based on that number? It’s probably too big.

Elastic tissue changes the game. Your size *at rest* may be very different from your size *while pumping*. And when your flange is too big, more of your areola gets pulled in, which can lead to discomfort, swelling, and poor milk removal.

Try Sizing Down

If you have elastic tissue, you may need a flange size 1–2mm smaller than you think. When building your fit kit, start with your measured size—but include a couple of smaller sizes to try. The goal is to find a flange that pulls in only your nipple, not your areola, and feels comfortable while still getting milk out efficiently.

Silicone Inserts Can Help

Silicone inserts can be a game-changer for elastic tissue. These sit inside your pump flange and bring the internal diameter down to your actual size. Many people love them because:

• They shorten the tunnel, so your nipple doesn't hit the back
• They're a little sticky—helping your areola stay put while your nipple slides through

If your nipples get super long and stretchy during pumping, these can make a big difference.

Lube the Inside, Not the Outside

To make your nipple glide smoothly inside the insert—without pulling your areola in too—you can use a tiny bit of food-safe, water-based lubricant or nipple ointment. Just apply a small amount *inside* the flange using a dental sponge or swab. Keep the outside dry so the insert stays sticky.

Silicone Flanges vs. Inserts

Some pumps offer full silicone flanges instead of just inserts, but many don’t have specific sizing. They use a gradual slope that doesn't always match real anatomy. If you're struggling, I recommend using a hard flange with a silicone insert that matches your actual size—especially if you have elastic tissue.

What If It Still Hurts?

If pumping still hurts, try lowering the suction. You shouldn’t need the highest setting for it to work. If you do? That’s often a sign your flange size still isn’t right. A proper fit lets your nipple move freely without pain, at a medium suction level, and still removes milk well.

Flange Shape Matters Too

If your pump flange is shaped like a traffic cone, but your chest is rounder or dome-shaped, it may not create a great seal. Many newer pumps now offer bowl-shaped or anatomically-contoured flanges, which can be more comfortable—especially for elastic tissue. Pairing the right shape *and* the right insert size makes a huge difference. Look for a "crater shape" flange, and if you are using an insert to get your ideal size, make sure you get the 24mm. 

Confidently Moving Forward

Elastic tissue doesn’t make the rules about pump fitting any different, and the same general rules apply. You just may need a few modifications to make it work just right for you and your body. 

If you are pumping occasionally, then getting the exact right is likely not going to matter very much in the big scheme of things. You aren't "pumping wrong" if your fit isn't exactly right.

But if pumping is a big part of your feeding plan, then getting the exact right fit for your body can make all the time you spend pumping give you a better return for your time investment.

You're worth it.