Part 1 - The Breast Pump Size Recommender System
Why the Breast Pump Size Recommender System Exists
My co-founder and I are currently developing a novel breast pump. We look like mad scientists doing it, but it’s been a fun, stressful, and eye-opening journey. One of our biggest takeaways—both from building this pump and from personal experience—is that women often don’t know what size pump they need. Despite their best efforts, breast pump companies rarely create a one-size-fits-all solution. Women’s breasts, areolas, and nipples come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they deserve a product that fits them and their body.
Breast pump sizing is critical for comfort, efficiency, and milk output, yet many mothers struggle to find the correct flange size. Using the wrong size flange can lead to pain, low milk output, clogged ducts, and even early weaning—making sizing accuracy essential.
That’s why we’re not just developing a next-generation breast pump, but also using AI to create a breast pump size recommender system to help moms find the right flange size. This tool is designed to:
Enhance pumping efficiency by ensuring a proper fit.
Reduce pain and discomfort associated with incorrect flange sizing.
Improve milk output by optimizing suction and milk flow.
Scientific Backing: How Flange Size Affects Milk Output
Several studies have shown that improper flange sizing negatively impacts breastfeeding success:
Pain & Nipple Trauma:
A study published in Breastfeeding Medicine (2020) found that incorrect flange size was a leading cause of nipple pain and trauma, which can lead to early cessation of pumping.
Milk Output & Flow:
Research from The Journal of Human Lactation (2015) showed that poorly fitting breast shields can reduce milk output by restricting proper milk flow and causing unnecessary compression of the milk ducts.
How Our Recommender System Helps
Instead of relying on trial and error, our AI-driven sizing tool allows users to choose from three simple methods to receive a personalized breast pump flange recommendation:
Image Recognition – Uses AI to analyze a photo and determine the best fit.
Favorite Brand’s Bra Size – Matches their preferred pre- or post-pregnancy bra size to a recommended flange size.
Measurements – A guided step-by-step method to measure nipple diameter and elasticity for precise sizing.
By ensuring moms get the correct size from the start, we can help them pump more efficiently, reduce discomfort, and extend their breastfeeding journey.
In my next post, I’ll dive into the method I used to develop our recommender system. Stay tuned…