Inserts and Willow Pump Flanges
One of the most common questions about using Maymom or Freemie Inserts with the Willow Pump Flanges or Containers is, “What size Willow Flange or Container do I need to use with my insert?”
The answer, most inserts are compatible with all three flange sizes and containers, but they do have limitations to consider when deciding if you need to purchase new flanges. We will discuss Maymom, Freemie, LacTeck, and Pumpin Pals in this article.
Inserts in a 24 mm Willow Flange
This is going to be your safest size flange or container to use with Maymom and Freemie Inserts. These inserts, up to 22 mm in size, fit snugly in the 24 mm flanges and containers. The inserts sit flush and have no wiggle to them. They are relatively easy to pop in and out to wash the flanges.
Inserts in a 27 mm Willow Flange
All Maymom and Freemie inserts will fit in the 27 mm flanges and containers, including those larger than 22 mm. The challenge with the smaller inserts is that the inserts don’t fit snuggly, and the wiggle the 27 mm sizing allows can be problematic for alignment if the insert shifts even slightly. This is the easiest size for removing them to wash.
Inserts in a 21 mm Willow Flange
Using Maymom and Freemie inserts with the 21 mm Willow Flanges and Containers is challenging. The inserts are intended for 24/25 mm flanges, and are too large in diameter to sit properly in the 21 mm openings. Some people are able to use them with success, while others find the pressure against the breasts from the inserts sticking out slows milk removal, contributes to breast and nipple pain, and can cause nipple damage.
What About Lacteck Flanges as Inserts?
Lacteck Flanges Fit best in a 27 mm flange if you don’t want to cut them down. They do stick out a touch but most people find this to be okay. Lacteck flanges run a bit bigger than standard sizing for the 18 mm which fits closer to a 18-19 mm and the 21 fits closer to a 22-23. There is a 15 mm option on preorder and as soon as I have those to measure personally, I will update.
The advantage of using Lacteck in a Willow Flange as an insert is the additional length this provides compared to the Freemie and Maymom inserts and the slight flexibility in sizing it accommodates.
What about Pumpin Pal Inserts?
Pumpin Pals can work as inserts for Willow Flanges, but they are typically a last resort when we can’t get any other option to work. They accommodate a larger range of nipple sizes per size of Pumpin Pals, but they are longer than our standard Maymom or Freemie inserts. They do not sit perfectly in the Willow flanges, and can cause issues with air leaks if inserted wrong. They technically fit in the 24 mm flanges as well but fit poorly. I recommend using them in the 27 mm flanges as a last resort before declaring the Willow Pump not for you. Only the X-small or Small Blue and Pink Pumpin Pals fit in the Willow Flanges.
So which option is right for you?
It really does come down to a personal choice combined with an understanding of your breast anatomy. Picking the right option for you if Maymom and Freemie inserts don’t work well for you typically requires an actual conversation via phone or telehealth video chat to decide what is most likely the right one for you!
If you are struggling, let me know, and we can work together to get your pumping journey to a place where you can pump effectively and comfortably!
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