Many moms think their nipples are elastic when using Elvie. However, that may not be the case!
You can see from the picture above, the standard flanges are longer and the single suction hole is located far away from the tube itself. This is so the nipple does not interfere with the suction. When you are pumping with these flanges, you don’t lose suction because your nipple is farther away from it. Looking at Elvie flanges in comparison, they are shorter and the two tiny suction holes, you likely didn’t even know were there, are located near the middle of the flanges. This doesn’t leave much room for your nipples to extend. Many moms need the extra length that standard flanges provide. As the suction holes are near the middle of the flanges, when the suction is turned on, your nipples may block these holes, reducing the suction, causing milk to back up in the green backflow protector and reduce the amount of milk you pump.
Don’t get overwhelmed! I created Pumping Pretty Insert to specifically work with Elvie OG to work around those suction holes and I offer 13mm, 15mm, 17mm, 19mm, and 21mm. They even can provide assistance with elastic, flat, and inverted nipples.
Other options: Legendairy silicon flanges inside the 28mm or 24mm Elvie flanges. You will push them in until they reach, but don’t cover the suction holes. Using a little lube can be helpful. This is a HACK and getting Pumping Pretty Inserts would be a lot easier. Lacteck Baby Motion Flanges for the moms with true elastic nipples requiring sizing down 15mm to 19mm. You will want to review the video on how to cut the inserts as it is very similar to cutting them as Maymom and Freemie. For help understanding how Lacteck sizes, please read this blog. 10% off code SAVETHEMILK211 But again there is no need to do all these hacks if you try the Pumping Pretty Inserts.
Last resort situation? BeauGen Cushions help you size down and to hold your tissue back. These can help your nipples stay clear of the suction holes but will require you to purchase them often. These are temporary products that last 2-8 weeks. You can learn more on how to use them with Elvie, here. 10% off code BC-savethemilk
Feeling overwhelmed? I don’t blame you. The best place to start is by knowing what size is right for you. You may not know what that size is but you can use the Nipple Queen Ruler to size yourself to the products you need. The number on the ruler is the size to buy. No more guessing on your size. What is worse then not nowing your size? Elvie only offeres flanges in sizes 21mm, 24mm and 28mm and if you go to their website, they will not direct customers to outside companies for smaller sizes.
Will the hacks to size down also work on the Elvie Stride insurance pump?
I was a 17 or 15 at times on my first pregnancy but used Medela so you helped me find correct flanges.
Now I am looking at Elvie Stride, but nervous about sizing. Being induced next week so its too soon to tell my size.
This hack is just for the Elvie OG. Stride you don’t need to use any hacks! All the inserts will fit in the 24mm without any need to make cuts or changes to the inserts.