Straight Talk About Angled Flanges
1. What makes Pumpin’ Pal flanges different from other flanges?
Pumpin’ Pal flanges are designed to improve both comfort and milk expression by working with your body—not against it.
Key differences:
- An angled design allows you to sit more naturally while pumping
- A longer, tapered tunnel supports a more comfortable fit
- An oval opening (instead of a fixed circle) allows for slight rotation and adjustability
- Available in 6 sizes and multiple materials to accommodate a wide range of needs
Rather than forcing you to fit the flange, Pumpin’ Pal flanges are designed to adapt to you.
2. Why did you design an angled flange?
The original goal was simple: eliminate the need to lean forward while pumping.
But the angled design also provides a second benefit—custom positioning.
By rotating the flange slightly, you can:
- Better align with your natural anatomy
- Improve milk flow into the bottle
- Reduce the need for manual adjustments during pumping
This added flexibility is one of the reasons many moms find Pumpin’ Pal flanges more comfortable and effective.
3. Can the flange be used at different angles?
Yes.
There’s no single “correct” position. The angled design allows you to adjust and rotate the flange until it feels right and performs well for your body.
4. How do I choose the right size?
Sizing with Pumpin’ Pal works differently than traditional flanges.
Standard flanges use a fixed circular measurement (e.g., 24mm). Pumpin’ Pal flanges are tapered and angled, so each size covers a range rather than a single measurement.
Because of this:
- There isn’t a precise way to measure without trying them
- Many moms aren’t sure which size will work best upfront
That’s exactly why we created the OptiFit™ system—to remove the guesswork.
5. Why choose the OptiFit™ Set instead of a single size?
The OptiFit Set is designed to help you find the right fit faster—and keep it over time.
With OptiFit:
- You first receive our 3 most popular sizes, with access to all 6 sizes
- You don’t need to order, wait, and reorder multiple times
- You’re covered as your body changes throughout your pumping journey
Most moms end up needing more than one size at some point. OptiFit ensures you already have what you need.
6. What is the OptiFit Promise?
The OptiFit Promise is built to reduce risk and make trying something new easier.
- One-time purchase for access to all sizes
- 30-day trial period
- Full refund if none of the sizes work for you
This allows you to try Pumpin’ Pal with confidence—without committing to the wrong size.
7. Are all products returnable?
Only the OptiFit Set includes a trial period and return option.
- Individual flange pairs are typically purchased after a size is already known
- Adapters are also non-returnable
This structure allows us to offer a trial where it matters most—when you’re still finding your fit.
8. Can I use different sizes for each breast?
Yes—and it’s very common.
Breasts often respond differently, so you may find that:
- Each breast needs a different size
- Your size changes over time
- Different situations call for different fits
Having access to multiple sizes makes it easier to adjust as needed.
9. Why is the price higher than standard flanges?
It’s a fair question—and it comes down to total value over time.
With traditional flanges, many moms end up:
- Buying multiple sizes
- Waiting between orders
- Still not finding the right fit
The OptiFit Set:
- Covers multiple sizes from the start
- Supports you throughout your pumping journey
- Costs about the same as purchasing two individual sizes
For many, it ends up being the more efficient and cost-effective option.
10. How do I know if the size is working?
A properly fitting flange should be both comfortable and effective.
Signs it’s working:
- You’re able to empty efficiently
- Pumping feels manageable—not painful
If comfort is there but output is low, it may not be a sizing issue—support with letdown or technique may help.
11. What if I experience pain or reduced output?
This usually indicates one of two things:
- A different size may be a better fit
- The flange may need to be applied differently
Because of the unique design—especially with silicone—small adjustments can make a significant difference.
12. What should I do if the size isn’t working?
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Our customer care team can help with:
- Fit adjustments
- Application techniques
- Troubleshooting
Most issues can be resolved with a few simple changes.
13. Why offer a 30-day return if the product can’t be reused?
Because trying the product is the only way to know if it will work for you.
- If it doesn’t work, you should be able to recover your investment
- While returns are costly for us, they make it easier for moms to try Pumpin’ Pal without hesitation
It’s part of our commitment to making this decision easier and lower risk.
14. Why are some flanges silicone and others plastic?
Each material is designed for different needs.
Plastic flanges:
- Lightweight
- Easy to use and clean
- Ideal for less elastic tissue
Silicone flanges:
- Provide additional control for specific fit challenges
15. What are the benefits of silicone flanges?
Silicone offers a unique advantage: controlled grip.
- Helps hold the areola and nipple base in place
- Reduces excess tissue being pulled into the tunnel
- Can improve both comfort and efficiency
This is especially helpful for moms with more elastic tissue.
16. Do Pumpin’ Pal flanges work for elastic nipples?
Yes—very effectively.
Our silicone sizes are specifically designed to:
- Limit over-extension of tissue
- Improve comfort
- Support better milk flow
However, Pumpin’ Pal flanges are not limited to this group—they work well for a wide range of users.
17. Will they work if I’m not elastic?
Yes.
While silicone addresses elasticity, the shape and angle of the flange improve comfort and performance regardless of tissue type.
18. How do I apply the flanges correctly?
Proper application is important for performance.
The goal is to:
- Ensure full contact with the breast
- Avoid air gaps
- Position the nipple correctly within the tunnel
We include clear, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process.
19. Is there a difference between applying silicone and plastic?
Yes.
- Silicone flanges require a specific application method (rolling back before use)
- Plastic flanges are applied like traditional flanges
Both are straightforward once you understand the process.
20. Should the pump be on when applying silicone flanges?
Yes.
Suction helps:
- Draw the nipple and areola into position
- Create a proper seal
This step is important for optimal performance.
21. Why is kinking the hose recommended?
Kinking the unused side directs full suction to the flange being applied, making it easier to:
- Achieve proper placement
- Create a secure seal
22. Should I use lubricant?
It depends on your needs.
- For non-elastic tissue: optional
- For elastic tissue: generally not recommended, as it may reduce control
23. Do silicone flanges stay on without support?
No.
Unlike passive suction devices, Pumpin’ Pal flanges:
- Work with a pump that cycles suction
- Require support from a bra or hand
This helps prevent accidental movement or spills during pumping.
24. Can I use them with a pumping bra?
Yes.
We recommend:
- First finding your correct size and technique
- Then introducing a bra for support
The bra should support the bottle—not apply pressure to the breast.
25. Do they work with all pumps?
They are compatible with most standard pumps.
- Some pumps require adapters
- A small number of pump systems are not compatible
26. Do they work with wearable pumps?
Not typically.
Pumpin’ Pal flanges are designed for traditional pumping systems and may not function properly with wearable collection cups.
