I have a question about breast shield size. I have tried to research the subject on the Medela website but it was a little hard to follow/ measure. I have 2 (24mm) breast shields and 2 (27mm) breast shields. I am trying to determine which one I should be using. How much of the nipple should be moving in the shield while you pump? When I use the 24mm shield, less than an inch of my nipple is actually in the shield moving and it is difficult to position the shield so that my nipple isn't rubbing against the side. When I use the 27mm shield, more of my aerola is a shield moving and is able to expand easier and not touch the side of the shield. Obviously the bigger the shield, the more of the aerola that will be exposed. How much of the aerola is optimal? Which shield size do you think I should be using for maxiumum stimulation?

My second question is when I am pumping my nipple is its natural color, but when I am done and I remove the shield the part of my nipple that was in the shield is white. This happens regardless of what shield size I use. Is this normal? Is there anything I can do to stop it from happening?


Thanks so much!