Categories: Breastfeeding, Pumping
November 30, 2023
Last updated on November 30, 2023
Whether you’ve just unboxed your new Spectra pump or are in search of an insurance-covered, customizable option, you’re in the right place. The Spectra S2, designed for comfort and convenience, is packed with innovative features including personal control of 2 phases of milk removal and 12 levels of vacuum suction, reaching up to 270 mmHg.
The Spectra S1 includes ALL the same features of the Spectra S2, plus a rechargeable battery. This highly sought portable option is offered as an upgrade through most health insurance plans. The 3-hour battery life delivers flexibility, making pumping sessions easier to manage, and working moms refer to the upgrade as being a “must-have!”
Need to get your breast pump through insurance?
We can help you get your breast pump and all the supplies that your insurance will cover, such as maternity compression, breast milk storage bags, and replacement pump parts! Fill out this form to get your breast pump through insurance.
What comes in the box
All Spectra breast pumps come with what you need to begin your pumping journey. In the box, you’ll receive an electric motor breast pump, milk collection bottles with storage caps, covers, and disks, feeding nipples, tubing, duckbill valves, backflow protectors, and two sets of flanges, size 24mm and 28mm. Spectra also offers additional flange sizes, including 16mm, 20mm, and 32mm.
Choosing the right flange size
Correct flange sizing is crucial for efficient milk removal and comfort. The ideal flange size is based on the diameter of the nipple, not the areola. When the nipple is centered inside the flange tunnel, it should only have a few millimeters (2-3) of wiggle room around the nipple. The entire nipple should fit comfortably without much, if any, of the areola entering the tunnel before pumping.
For accurate sizing, consider scheduling a Flange Fit Basics virtual consult with Acelleron, or follow Spectra’s measuring guide, adding 3-5 mm to your nipple’s diameter.
What makes Spectra different?
A distinguishing aspect of Spectra pumps is their Natural Nursing Technology. Spectra explains that Natural Nursing Technology utilizes customized vacuum and cycle patterns that closely mimic a baby nursing at the breast. This natural pumping experience provides productive, comfortable, successful pumping sessions and ultimately – more milk in less time.
Spectra pumps are also known for their abundance of setting combinations, making them highly customizable. The Spectra S1 and S2’s digital controls allow you to set the pumping program to the speed and rhythm most effective for your body. The suction is adjustable in both massage and expression modes. The cycle speed is adjustable in expression mode. The Spectra S1 and S2 are quiet and feature a timer and a night light. Plus, Spectra also provides IBCLC support for those who use a Spectra pump.
How to operate
As previously noted, there is a wide range of setting combinations. There is no wrong way to use a Spectra pump, but they do recommend starting with “Cycle Pumping.” Cycle Pumping mimics the way a baby nurses at the breast, triggering letdown, nursing rhythmically, triggering letdown again, then taking longer, deeper sucks toward the end of a session. Here is an example of Cycle Pumping with the Spectra S1/S2.
- Cycle 70 (Massage Mode) for 5 minutes
- Cycle 54 (Expression Mode) for 5 minutes
- Cycle 70 (Massage Mode) for 5 minutes
- Cycle 38 (Expression Mode) for 5 minutes
As you continue pumping, you will find the settings that work best for your body. These may change throughout your journey, the day, or even your pump session.
Want to learn more?
If you are excited about your Spectra pump but have questions about what it comes with or how to use it, you can schedule an Unbox Your Pump free* virtual consultation with a Pump Expert to review how to set up and use your new pump as well as pumping tips, tricks, and more!
*This consult is free to customers who ordered a breast pump through Acelleron only. If not a previous Acelleron breast pump customer, an invoice for the standard $25.00 fee will be sent and is due before the scheduled consult time.