Nipple Size for Breast Pumps?

For anyone out there breastfeeding, how do you know what size breast shield to buy for a breast pump? Do you measure the size of the nipple itself or is the aerola (sp?) included in the sizing ?

I have a Medela Pump in Style electric pump. It seems the standard size is 24mm...

MOST women will take a standard shield, two should come with your pump.  If your nipples are not standard, it will be obvious if you need to size up or down as it will be very uncomfortable.  When you pump your areola should get pulled into the pump, but your nipple should NOT rub the sides.  If you are getting good milk flow it is not too big, if you are not rubbing it is not too small.    IDK where you are giving birth but I know the LCs (lactation consultants) at both Riverside and Mary Immaculate and they are great.  They will come check you once the baby is born and if you request it will check your shields (ask for a kit in the hospital - then you will have a backup set of horns, shields and tubing - as long as you are going with a Medela which I am assuming you are?)  Message me if you have more questions, I pumped for both of my boys (so over 2 years of pumping)

I spoke with Medela when I bought mine a few years back and they told me it was for the size of the breast, not sure if that has changed though. They make them larger for larger breast. Even though I was an I cup when breast feeding, I still only used the original ones that came with my Medela in style pump. If you have questions about it,try calling Medela.

Hello there, first, I wanted to mention I am in Hampton and delievered at Riverside and the LC there are excellent.  As the others mentioned most women are the standard size which is what I use with the same pump you use.  At the hospital if you need to pump (which I did) they bring you the kit.  (which is nice bc then you have an extra set to take with you). 

Good luck!  Stacey