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Ever since my Avent breast pump broken a few weeks ago, I realized that I must look for an alternative breast pump that I can trust. With the fact that Philips has discontinued Avent Isis product range, I could no longer purchase replacement spare parts easily. So once again I’m on the look for a new breast pump. That’s when I found Spectra S1 breast pump.
This so-called hospital grade pump receives raves reviews from exclusive pumpers and mother of preemies for helping them building and maintaining their milk supply.
But... is that really true?
I took my chance to get this breast pump, and boy, finally I found my DREAM BREAST PUMP.
Read further to find out why you should own Spectra S1 breast pump.
More...
(this post contains affiliate links)
UPDATE: Since this post was published, I've written more detailed posts about other Spectra models, as well as how to use the breast pump. Do check out the following for other Spectra posts:
- How to Use Spectra S1 breast pump | The Beginner's Guide
- Spectra S1 vs Spectra S2 | What's The Difference?
- Spectra Breast Pump Parts & Accessories | Which one is Compatible?
- Which Breast Pump Bags Can Fit Spectra S1? Check out the top 5
- Spectra M1 Breast Pump Review (most affordable Spectra model)
- Spectra 9+ Breast Pump Review (most portable and sleek Spectra model)
- Spectra S2 vs Spectra 9+ | Which One Should You Choose
I hope this Spectra series helps you to determine which breast pump model suits your need the most plus allows you to understand how to use Spectra breast pump =).
Let's continue to the main article ...
Table of Contents
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Spectra S1 is a dual electric breast pump originated from Korea. It is rated as hospital grade due to its heavy duty motor and wide range of suction level. Here’s a few specification regarding Spectra S1.
- Breast pump type: electric (AC power and built-in rechargeable battery)
- Single /double: double
- Suction levels: 12 different levels
- Speed adjustment: yes (separated from suction adjustment)
- Breast flange diameter: 24 mm (other sizes, 20, 28 and 32 mm, are sold separately)
- Breast pump dimension: 20x20x17 cm
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Best deal available at: Amazon (now it can ship to Singapore! Check it out!)
More specifications can be found here.
WHAT YOU GET OUT OF THE BOX
- Pump motor (with built-in battery)
- A pair of breast flanges + duck bill valves
- Two bottles with teats and sealing discs
- A pair of back flow protectors
- Two sets of tubing
- AC adaptor
THINGS I LOVE FROM SPECTRA S1
1. Hospital grade with max suction of 300 mmHg
Unlike other breast pumps which reach maximum typically at 250mmHg, Spectra offers much higher suction limit. While not all mothers will need this maximum suction level, this extra is definitely an added advantage. Different mothers have different suction preferences.
Wider range of suction means more mothers will benefit from this pump.
And there's a higher chance that you'll find your comfortable suction level with this pump.
2. Great for building up and maintaining milk supply
While I don’t have personal experience on building my milk supply since the beginning with this pump. I can easily see that it is powerful enough for establishing and maintaining a good milk supply.
I've read great reviews from exclusive pumpers and mothers of preemies and twins who need to build up their supply and they all LOVE this breast pump. This pump also one of the most favorite pumps for mothers with low milk supply issue.
I myself tested the efficiency of this breast pump by comparing the amount of milk expressed by Spectra S1 and the milk expressed with Avent Isis Manual Pump (being my gold standard of emptying breast most efficiently) right after pumping with Spectra S1.
I’m happy to report that Spectra is able to drain my breast thoroughly with up to 90% efficiency. I still get some milk out with my Avent Isis right after that, but the amount is typically less than 0.3 oz.
3. Unique suction with vibration, maximizing comfort
I can attest that Spectra S1 has a powerful suction.
I am used to Avent Isis breast pump which is famous for its strong suction. With Spectra S1, I found myself comfortable at suction level 10,which is comparable to my Avent Isis maximum suction. The surprising thing is, despite its strong suction, I barely feel any discomfort.
I suspect this is due to Spectra S1's unique vibration. No wonder they have a slogan: "our pumps don't suck, they SUCKLE."
This is how Spectra pump works: at the beginning of sucking phase, it vibrates the nipple, then followed by a long deep suction.
To me personally, the vibration mimics the way a baby suckles the nipple in direct nursing. Hence, creating a comfortable feeling.
This is a totally different feeling compared to when I use the highest suction in Medela system, in which the strong suction comes with nipple discomfort.
4. Super quiet (nearly silent!)
Before using Spectra S1, I always thought that my Medela Swing is considered a quiet pump.
But what a difference with Spectra. It is super quiet!!! Even my family member noticed this right from the beginning.
This makes Spectra S1 perfect for those wee-hour pumping (when you don't want to wake up anyone else -especially your little one) and at-desk pumping once you go back to work. Yes, your colleagues won't even notice that you are actually pumping unless they are staring at you.
5. Closed-system pump
Spectra breast pump has a pair of
This fact makes Spectra breast pump more hygienic, more durable pump motor, and suitable for sharing between multiple users. Each user just needs to have her individual collection kit.
6. Highly customizable (suction strength and cycle speed can be adjusted independently)
The massage (let-down) mode has 5 different suction levels and cycling speed up to 70 cycles per minute. For comparison, Medela pump only has a single cycling speed for massage mode (112 cycles per minute).
I found the massage mode quite effective in stimulating let-down reflex. Typically I achieve my first let-down after 1 minute, and the second let-down after 3-4 minutes (note: the second let-down was initiated after the milk flow slows down after expressing with the first let-down).
The expression mode is even more powerful with 12 different suction levels (the highest at 300 mmHg) and cycle speed between 38-54 cycles per minute.
The breast pump automatically saves your last used setting , so that you can use exactly the same setting every time you pump.
Other features which are NICE:
- Dual or single pumping. Spectra S1 breast pump allows easy switching between dual and single pumping by unplugging one of the suction tube and cover one of the tube connector.
- LED display, which allows you to see how long you have been pumping, which mode are you currently in (massage or expression mode), and which suction level /speed you use.
- Night light. This is a pretty cool feature if you pump in the middle of night. Currently, I don’t need this, but I can relate how useful it is for exclusive pumping mamas who need to express at regular interval including at wee hours. The are 2 levels of brightness as shown in the photo.
- Auto shut-off after 30 minutes. The pump will automatically turns off after running for a continuous 30 minutes. This is a safety feature, just in case you fall asleep during wee hour pumping session and lets the pump running all the time.
Different levels of Spectra S1 night light
I've heard it again and again, a lot of moms are raving about Spectra S1, whether it is in motherhood forums, Facebook groups, reddit, and Amazon. You can read more reviews about Spectra S1 here.
THE CONS
1. Bulky (compared to other personal breast pumps)
With size of 20x20x17 cm and weigh around 1.1 kg, this breast pump is rather bulky. I tote it every day to my office and I need a separate bag to house the pump alone.
PS: If you are looking for a pump bag that will fit your Spectra S1 and all your pumping accessories (bottles included), plus all your laptop, purse, etc, I strongly recommend you to check out my latest post about the top 5 breast pump bags for Spectra S1. So many choices available now!
And did I mention that these bags are very stylish? No one will expect thatthey are breast pump bags.
Oh, btw, if you don't like a bulky breast pump, Spectra has a more portable model (M1 and Spectra 9+) but with some limited features. Read my Spectra M1 review here and my Spectra 9+ review here.
2. Marking in bottles disappear pretty quickly
Spectra breast pump now comes with wide-neck bottles. While they are more stable compared to its previous version (the one pictured above is the old version), I've noticed that the oz marking easily disappears after a few months. If you plan to use Spectra long-term, I'd suggest you to invest in better quality bottles. I myself prefer to use Avent natural/classic bottles.
Which bottles compatible with Spectra spectra breast pump (other than Spectra bottles, of course):
- Avent natural / classic bottles (holds 4 oz)
- Nene Supply breast milk bottles (holds ~ 4.5 oz)
- Maymom wide-mouth collection bottles (holds 4.7 oz).
- Kiinde breast milk storage pouch (this is a breast milk bag, but you can pump directly to it, it has various adapters to fit major breast pump models, including Spectra).
For more compatible bottles and breast pump accessories, check out my latest post on Compatible Spectra breast pump parts and accessories.
3. Start on expression mode
This is a small thing, but I find it not so intuitive.
But this breast pump starts in expression mode. So you need to press the massage button every time you turn on the pump, to stimulate let-down.
That being said, if you end your last pumping at suction level 11, then it will start at level 11 again, which can be a ‘shock’ if you are not aware.
The best practice is to always lower down your suction level right at the end of your pumping session, so that next time it will start on low again.
4. Limited breast flange size
To date, Spectra offers 24-mm size flange (this is the standard size which comes with every new pump), 28-mm, 32-mm, and 20-mm breast flange.
I secretly wish that they support a broader range of flange size (especially smaller size) just like what Medela has, or Maymom.
However, I found a simple solution on how to use Medela / Maymom flange with Spectra breast pump, while keeping its backflow protector attached. Click here to learn how to connect Medela shield to Spectra breast pump.
Update: Maymom releases a special adapter that can connect Medela / Maymom breast shield to Spectra breast pump directly. Or, alternatively, you can use a long-stem back flow protector to connect Medela breast shield directly to the backflow protector, no extra piece required. Genius!
You can connect Medela breast flange to Spectra, while still using the back flow protectors.
Watch it in action!
Here’s a video review about Spectra S1 breast pump by BabyScoops (special thanks to Ellie for letting me putting her video in this review).
A few notes about things mentioned in the video:
- All prices mentioned are in SGD (Singapore dollar).
- Avent VIA cup system (can be bought from Amazon) allows you to pump, store and feed from the same container. No milk transfer, so less wastage. These cups come in 2 different sizes: 6 oz (180 ml) and 8 oz (240 ml), and they are stackable (thus, easy to store)
WHO IS THIS BREAST PUMP FOR?
This is a heavy-duty breast pump. It is suitable for mothers looking to
- Build their milk supply
- Maintaining their supply (especially when they cannot latch the baby directly).
- Exclusive pumpers, and
- Working moms
- For power pumping (due to its heavy duty nature)
SPECTRA S1 Vs SPECTRA S2
Spectra has two models of hospital-grade pump, S1 and S2. They have exactly the same size, shape, and features and functionalities, except that Spectra S1 has a built-in battery while Spectra S2 does not.
>> Click here to learn more about detailed difference between Spectra S1 and S2
PS: Amazon is offering a very good deal on Spectra S1 ( It is way less compared to price at www.spectrababyusa.com). And now, it even ships to Singapore. Check it out.
FINAL CONCLUSION
Spectra S1 breast pump is a great pump to have for mothers looking to establishing, building, and maintaining their milk supply.
If you are a mother who has difficulty in building up your supply, exclusive pumper wanting to maintain steady milk supply, mothers of preemies, and working moms looking for a heavy-duty breast pump, then I strongly recommend Spectra S1.
Again, this breast pump receives a lot of great reviews. I’m just one of them.
To recap, here's the benefit you'll get with Spectra S1:
- Strong suction (up to 300 mmHg), with 12 different suction strength levels.
- So much comfort (this breast pump suckles, not just 'pulling' your nipple)
- Ability to adjust cycle speed and suction strength independently (this is WOW)
- No need to depend on power outlet due to its built-in battery that lasts up to 3 hours! (You can pump in your kitchen table, car, cubicle, tiny store room, literally any where)
- Digital display (know exactly which level you are in, how long you have been pumping, night light)
- Super quiet (no more waking up your hubby or baby in the middle of night)
- Hospital grade (heavy-duty motor, long lasting)
- Closed system (more hygienic, more durable)
I'm totally in love with this breast pump and a lot of mothers too. I believe you will love this breast pump too and it will be the best buddy in your breastfeeding journey.
Here's another rave review for a mom who bought it:
I bought Spectra S1 for my second baby and carefully measured my correct breast shield. Guess what? My pumping yield is 150% up !! (compared to what I used to get with my first baby). Woohoo...
Want to get great results just like Linda has? Try Spectra S1, you won't be disappointed.
I hope this review helps you to determine if Spectra S1 is suitable for your need. Feel free to ask me questions about this breast pump if you are in doubt.
>> Click here to read more Spectra S1 reviews<<
Spectra S1 Breast Pump
$199.99
Pros
- Hospital-grade
- Empty breast efficiently
- Can adjust cycle speed independently
Cons
- Bulky
- Need some time to find out your best pump setting
- Original spare parts does not have a lot of breast shield size option
lol so this doesn’t really apply to me but I found it interesting nonetheless. If I ever needed breast supply things or something then I would definitely hit you up. The images were straight and too the point and I found the website to be very informative overall. Very good job overall! A nice design and a very good layout makes it accessible for the reader.
Hi John, thanks for the compliment. If you ever have friends or relatives who are in need of a good breast pump, please refer this article to them.
Hi Rina, thanks for the information! A few months after our son was born my girlfriend also had trouble producing enough milk, we tried a pump but that didnt work out so well so we had to switch to using milk from a bottle… but I think if we tried another pump or did some more research on it maybe we would have found a suitable one… Il definitely keep your site in mind if I hear of someone who needs advice on breast pumps or breastfeeding…
Something else that girlfriend experienced was pain while breastfeeding, im sure theres alot of women or their partners looking for advice on that too (perhaps you could write a post or something on that… just a suggestion 🙂
Hi Sc, Yeah, definitely having the right pump also plays important role when there’s milk supply issue. I can totally relate how challenging it is to continue breastfeeding up to 6 months and even more. This is even more true when the mother starts working or studying and need to be separated from baby.
It also took me quite a while to find the ‘right-fit’ breast pump for me, so researching before buying breast pump is very important to do.
Pain while breastfeeding is typical during the first few days of breastfeeding because both mother and baby are learning the best position to nurse, but prolonged pain is a sign of breastfeeding problem, perhaps from incorrect latch. I’ll add this to my list of blog post ideas. Many thanks.
Hi Rina,
This review is just in time, as we’re having a baby soon (the third one, actually), and I was thinking of purchasing an electric breast pump for my wife. We used a manual philips pump before and it was great, but manual pump isn’t always convenient to use, actually. I think S1 will be a very good improvement for us, thank you for the valuable info!
Hi Dmitriy, congrats on your baby no 3. Yes, I agree with you that manual pump may not be convenient to use. Nowadays a lot of moms prefer electric ones. I also used philips avent manual pump and love it. Spectra S1 is my other lover which is in par with Avent in terms of efficiency. I hope the reviews is useful for you and your wife.
Do let me know how’s her experience with S1 later on.
Sure, I’ll let you know, but it will take a few months – we expect our baby to be born in the middle of January 🙂
Hi I have take a spectra 1 from my Last time baby sitter Daughter. She give me as she find it good to use. She only give me plug and the pump. May I know what are the accessories kits that I need to buy. I want to go buy online through Qoo10. But there is so many spare parts for spectra that I don’t know which one to buy or what to buy. Can u give me a list of what should I buy. I have already bought tommy tippee milk bottle so is there anyway the tubing can connect directly to the bottle or I just buy spectra bottle?
Tomme tippe is not compatible with Spectra, unfortunately. You need to buy the tubings, backflow protector, the breast shield sets (the flange and the duckbill valve), and the bottle (Spectra, Mam, or Avent). Buy 2 for each.
Where do you stay? If you are in Singapore / Malaysia, I highly recommend buying from Kulily.com or Bingbling (authorized distributor of Spectra). Tracy (the owner of Kulily is super helpful. You can always ask her if you are in doubt).
Let me know if you need more help =)
I learned so much about what to look for in a breast pump from your article. This is great.
In regards to the suction, such as 250mmHg, what does the Hg stand for?
I didn’t know that vibration of the pump can offset the discomfort that can be typical. I also leraned that there are some systems out there that can be adjusted independantly of eachother.
What a great pump this Spectra is.
Hi Debra,
I am glad that you learnt something from the article.
mmHg is also known as mm of mercury (Hg is the symbol of ‘hydrargyrum‘, the chemical name of mercury). mmHg is a unit of pressure, just like Pa (Pascals). I don’t know if you can recall this, but I believe we learnt about it at physics lesson in our secondary school years.
Yeah, I was also surprised that this little vibration does wonder to the pumping experience.
I especially love that the suction and the speed can be adjusted separately (most breast pump models, such as Avent, Medela PISA, don’t have this capability).
Hi Rina, Thanks again for checking out my site.. I am enjoying reading yours! This is a great review. I have never seen this pump in person but I was curious about it. I always used an Ameda but they don’t even make my favorite pump anymore. This one looks good.. not that pumping is fun, but having a great pump does make it better.
Hi Jen, I came across this Spectra S1 quite recently as well. I love it. Just yesterday I happened to pump together with another mom with different breast pump brand. What a difference in the noise. Once is psst psst (very silent) while the other is mooing like a cow.
I tried Ameda before (my sister owns one). I love that it is also a closed system pump, and the suction can be powerful too, but the speed is too slow to my liking.
Hello Rina,
Need your help to advice, can Spectra S1 pump go into Avent Natural Bottle? Thank you.
Hi Karen,
Which flange size are you using? As far as I know, size 28 mm and above fits wide-neck bottles, including Avent Natural bottle.
If you use the 24-mm, it fits the standard-neck bottle (such as Medela, etc). Of course, you can always connect to Avent natural bottle via Avent narrow-to-wide-neck bottle converter.
Thanks Rina, I have both flange size. I will try it out with both wide and narrow neck bottle 🙂
Hi! I’m hoping you can tell me if you are still having success with this pump? The internet is littered with mixed reviews about the S1’s longevity with some issues with customer service to get a warranty replacement. Just curious if you have been able to use this pump long term. Thanks!
Hi Emily,
I just started using Spectra S1 breast pump a few months before weaning my daughter, so I don’t think I’m the right person to comment on its durability.
But, I remember, before I decided to try on this pump, I asked a fellow pumping mama about this very same question, how durable it is. And she said that she’s been using it for more than 500+ hours for her twin preemies and it’s still going strong for her.
Customer service wise, I got my pump from a local seller (in SIngapore), and the experience has been good. And since I didn’t face any problem at all, I have never asked for replacements etc.
Hope this helps.
Hi! Great website, I am going through all of the articles now! What settings do you use? I am trying to find the best settings. I was renting a hospital grade pump, but it just got way too expensive. Since using the Spectra SI i get half of what I was getting before. Ive been using the spectra for about three weeks and I haven’t seen much of a change. Im a little discouraged, but wondering if Im not doing the settings correctly. Thanks!
Hi Erika,
For Spectra S1, I use massage mode at the max setting and suction level 10 (but that’s just me, I love strong suction btw, you should try to find settings that are most comfortable for you).
Have you seen my article about how to pump more milk effectively? There are more tips over there on how to effectively use your pump and it summarizes what I do to empty my breast.
Let me know if you have further question. I hope you’ll finally found the setting that works well for you.
Hi Rina, great website with tons of useful information. I wished i knew your website before giving birth. My daughter is 5m now and i am preparing to go back to work soon but havent had any stored ebm, sadly. Pumping is very hard for me since i have sensitive nipples which makes pumping a painful experiences. My breasts are hard to be completely emptied as well. Those all makes pumping a struggle to me. I am looking for a new pump. A local supplier at my area offers a used freestyle with the same price of spectra s1. I am very hesitant about these two pumps. Spectra s1 are greatly plauded for its gentleness on breasts and its comfort. So what would you recommend? Spectra s1 or Freestyle? Which one is more comfortable and more efficient at emptying your breast?
Hi Chi Do,
Different women respond differently with different breast pumps.Some moms prefer Spectra S1 for its gentleness, but I also knew not all loves Spectra’s suckling sensation, and get a better result with Medela pumps. Having said so, I’ve heard over and over again the compliments toward Spectra from EP-in moms, preemie moms, as well as low-milk-supply mom. I love that I can have freedom to set the suction and cycle speed separately, but note that it is bulky.
On the other hand, Freestyle is also great pump and well-loved by pumping moms ( one of my friends was EP-ing and used Freestyle for 26 months without any problem). It’s super portable, which is great for working moms, but I’d warn you that it will be noisier after long months of heavy usage.
You mention that you were offered a used Freestyle. I would be cautious to buy a used breast pump (we don’t know how well it functions and please be extra cautious of the risk of contamination).
Since you have a sensitive nipple, you should ensure to choose the correctly-fit breast shield (otherwise, pumping can be a painful experience). Also, to better empty your breast, use a hands-on technique while pumping (I discuss this in details in my other article – how to pump more breast milk).
Good luck!
Hi Rina. Thank you very much for your useful and detailed reply. Actually i am attracted by the small size and portability of Freestyle but still much concerned about the downsides pointed out by you of contamination, noise and used motor. Luckily, the supplier agree to my prpposal of one month rent for the s1. I had some first pumping sessions with s1 and it is the most comfortable pump so far for me. I feel more milk is yielded during let down. And i dont feel any discomfort at all even turning the suction strength at level 9. This is really bizzare since for the previous pumps (i have tried medela pisa and unimom) i can only turn the lever milimeters away from the start button then pain came immediately. Weird thing for me is i feel i can get more milk if i set the pump at massage mode cycle 70 and level 5. If i change to suction mode, let down quickly disappear. So i have to set my s1 at massage mode throughout the whole session. I am wondering if this is normal or am i doing sth wrong
hi Chi Do,
Glad that you feel comfortable pumping with Spectra S1.
Regarding which combination works best to yield more milk, I personally think it’s an individual preference. And really, the difference between massage n expressing mode is more like: massage ~ low suction, faster speed, express ~ high suction slower speed.
But if from your experiment, you get more milk with massage mode all the time, then I would say: go for it!
A lot of my clients have started using the Spectra. This review is incredibly helpful. Many thanks. This is a fantastic website. Well done!
Hi Rina,
I’m currently using a Freestyle pump and I have 3 sets of all the accessories because I’m EPing and a working mom. I’ve recently purchased a Spectra s2 to bring up my supply. I want to use my use all my Freestyle parts for the spectra. The tubing for the freestyle is different than the PISA… How i make the freestyle and Spectra compatible?
Hi Nina,
I never tried connecting Freestyle to Spectra before. But here’s an article from other Spectra user to connect both of them (note that the connection makes it open system as the backflow protectors are not used).
Alternatively, you need to buy Medela personafit connector and Swing/PISA tubing (Maymom has compatible tubing that is less expensive) and use this hack to connect them to Spectra.
Hi Rina,
I just like to ask regarding the avent electric breast pump and the spectra s1 electric breast pump. In your honest opinion which is better the avent or the spectra s1 ?
Thank you.
Hi Marlette,
Spectra S1 is definitely better. You see, Avent has only 2 sizes of flanges, unlike Spectra (especially because now you can use Medela flanges with Spectra), so you will get a better chance to pump comfortably with a correctly-fitted breast flange.
Suction strength-wise, Spectra S1 offers 12 different levels, while Avent only 3.
Motor wise, Spectra S1 is definitely more durable. I never use the new Avent electric, but one of my colleagues does, and in my opinion, it’s noisy.
Even comparing the simpler model of Spectra (which is Spectra M1 – you can see my review here), I think Spectra M1 is still better.
Note: the Avent pump that I mentioned in my Spectra post is Avent Isis Manual, so not the electric model.
Hope this helps.
It is interesting to learn that such a wide variety of breast pumps exist. Thanks for the information provided about this specific product. I love the fact that it is super quiet and also that it has a massage feature. I will have to inform my friend who is pregnant.
Hi Jade,
Yes, I love its quietness and the massage also works wonder in initiating let-down. Having said so, I believe all mothers should also learn how to stimulate let-down without relying on the breast pump. Here are some tips to do that.
Hi Rina! Thanks for your very informative blogs! I’m considering getting the Spectra s1 but am concerned about it being hands-free. I read on one reviews that it couldn’t be used with a pumping bra. Can you comment on this? I appreciate any suggestions. Thanks!
Hi Sittie,
I think it depends on which pump bra are you referring to. Some pump bras have small openings such that it can only be used with 2-piece breast shield.
Some others have wider openings and can accommodate any breast shield (including Spectra). I have PumpEase at home and I can easily insert Spectra breast shield, no problem at all.
Some hands free bras need the flanges to be disassembled, but some don’t! I highly recommend the simple wishes bra. It’s saved me at work!!
Hi Rina,
My baby is 3 months now and next month I need to back work. I’ve no storage of freezer milk. Currently day time direct latch and night time I pump out maximum 2 times using by Philip Avent double electric pump. My maximum output 180 ml and day time 40-90 ml ( not latching) . I worry when I back to work , will not enough milk for baby. I would like to increase out put at daytime , pls advice me should I change to spectra S1 pump or other way to pump? Pls help me to advice which pump is best for me ?
Hi Thinzar,
Before changing your pump, I would recommend you to evaluate the way you pump. Does your breast feel softer after pumping, any lumps?
I have an article about how to pump more milk, try to apply some of the tips there (there’s a free e-course that you can sign up, too, so you can apply the technique step by step), check it here.
Additionally, check my recent article about how to build a freezer stash here. A few quick tips: the amount that you are able to pump right now may not be the best representative of what you can pump later at work. Perhaps you can tweak: (1) how often do you pump, you may get less, but if you pump more often, you may accumulate more milk.
When you said you pump max 2x at night, do you still direct latch and the pumping is extra session on top of nursing? I recommend you to keep latching the baby, so the pumping that you do is additional to the nursing. That way, you are training your body to produce slightly more milk than what your baby needs, and you can keep the extra for the stash. If you don’t want to keep a stash, and you pump less than what your baby needs, you can add extra pumping sessions in the morning/night/weekend. It’s though, but some moms did it and still managed to produce enough.
Hope this helps.
Hi Rina,
Thanks for your reply.
After pumped I feel soft but lamps still there .
My midnight pumped baby take in the next day.
Sometime baby refused to direct latch and I gave pumped milk. Day time I pumped 4 times (beside direct latch ) but output like 40-60-90 ml.
Try to massage your breast while pumping, hopefully it helps to soften the lumps.
If 40-90 ml is on top of direct latch, that’s a good amount already, fyi, my best yield was 60 ml before returning to work, so I envy you.
Do you have extra help at home (e.g. parents, nanny)?
If you are still worried, you can try power pumping for times when your baby refuses to latch, it takes one hour to do, though (20 mins pump, 10 mins rest, 10 mins pump, 10 mins rest, 10 mins pump).
Note that it will take time to notice an increase in your milk supply, some moms noticed the increase in a week, some in two weeks. Typically, the more power pumping you can do in a day, the faster you’ll see an increase. But please remember, don’t beat up yourself. Take enough rest. Every mom deserve to get a good rest. Take care.
Hi Rina ,
Thank you so much for your encouragement. At this moment I’m alone taking care baby, that’s why day time a bit difficult to pump. And also my baby nap less than an hour. I did power pumping at night. Really appreciated your care.
Hi, can I get some advise for spectra s1 too. I’m an exclusive pumping mum and have been pumping only on stimulation mode. It is quite comfy and I feel it makes let down so easily and milk flows out too. I would only use the stimulation mode at 70cycle, level 5 and milk output is quite good and I feel my breast quite empty. I’m jus wondering if it’s fine to pump just on stimulation mode? Have been doing so since day 1 when I used the pump. and I nv like the extraction mode. As I feel that the milk doesn’t get extracted fast enough since the extraction mode is always on that pull and drip effect. As for stimulation mode each pull is fast and comes with milk. I’m at week 7 now, I started using s1 from week 3 onwards only… Would there be any issues If I never use extraction mode at all?
Hi Kay,
That’s perfectly fine. A friend of mine also used only the stimulation mode to pump with Spectra.
The key is to use the most comfortable setting. If yours means only stimulation mode, then stick to it.
All the best.
Hi Rina,
Thank you for the review. I have bought the S1, and look forward to using it once my baby is born next month! As I am planning to build up a stock of breastmilk for when I go back to work, what storage bags would you recommend? Ideally I would like to pump directly into the bag. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Hi, I love Lansinoh milk bag for storing my frozen milk. However, I don’t usually pump directly to the bag because my pumped yield is not that much, so I need to combine two or more bottles before pouring to the milk bag. Also, I like to freeze a certain amount in each milk bag, so pumping directly to a milk bag does not sound like a good idea for me.
If you want a breast milk bag that you can use for pumping, storing, and feeding at the same time, I’d recommend you to check Kindee breastfeeding kit. It is not as flat as Lansinoh (hence takes more space in the freezer), but you’ll have less milk transfer from bottles, bag, and bottle again.
Hi Rina, I’m currently using Medela Swing single pump comes with the set of milk bottles.
My baby is 2 weeks old, my average per pump is about 70-80ml each side. But is it consider Low supply and it is taking Long time (1hour-1.5hour) to complete as it is single pump.
I’m thinking of getting a double electric pump whether I should get the same brand Medela or I should try other Brand? Can I still use back the Medela bottles if I get Spectra? I find the Spectra looks bulky, whether which model suits my needs?
Thank you
Hi Caris,
Do you do direct latch and this pumping is an addition to that or do you exclusively pump?
If you direct latch, this amount is very huge already and you must be very proud of yourself.
If you are exclusively pumping, aim for getting 750-800 ml per day(see more about this here) And I suggest you to get a double electric pump for that, preferably a hospital grade like Spectra S1 / S2.
Not only it will cut the pumping time into half, it will help you to build up your supply too. Spectra has a wide to narrow neck bottle adapter so that you can still use your Medela bottles.
Hi Rina,
I already own an S2 but am contemplating on getting the S1 for its rechargeable feature. Would it be worth it?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Val,
I think it depends on how bad you need the portability feature. As for me, plugging a breast pump to a power outlet is a hassle (at home I pumped with breast pump set on a dining table with no nearby outlet). At work, while I do have access to power source, it’s just, you need another minute to plug it in, which IMO, can be used for something else that’s more meaningful, lol.
And also, your budget. If you have a budget and need the convenience of pumping without the need of power outlet, I would say, ‘go and get it’. But if you are on a tight budget and you are already used to pumping near to a power outlet, just stick to S2.
Hope this helps
Rina
Hi, i have the spectra s1 with the 24mm flange. I would like to pump directly into the philip avent cup. Any idea how it can be done? TIA.
Yes, it can be done. You just need to use Avent breast pump conversion kit to connect the breast shield to Avent VIA cup. This kit has 2 pieces of narrow-to-wide bottle converter and two pieces of narrow-to-VIA converter.
Now, Spectra has three flange sizes to fit most moms. The medium is the standard that comes with the pump which is 24 mm, large which is 28 mm and x-large which is 32 mm. You can find them with quick shipping at Lactation Connection. http://www.lactationconnection.com/Spectra-Breast-Pump-Parts-s/2196.htm
Hi, I m using Spectra S1 with 24m flange but the flange is from Cimilre. Any idea if it fits the medela storage bottle? Or if I want to pump directly into avent storage cup, does the conversion kit works? TIA
Hi Pei Wen,
I haven’t tried Cimilre breast shield but looking at the specs, it seems to fit Medela (i.e narrow-neck) bottles.
I uses this one with my daughter. Works great I had milk stored up for about two years. i stopped nursing at 6-7months and she fed off my stores milk, while i went back to work. love it
Hi Tiera,
I’m glad you also had great success with this pump. I highly recommend this pump for mothers who want build up their supply. It is very good.
This was such a useful post! Thanks for taking time to do it and responding to the comments – I read both and decided to buy the spectra s1 in preparation for my baby (on top of having a medela swing). As a first time mom, could I get your views on – how to store the expressed milk (bags or containers?) and any suggested brands?
Hi Jane,
I’m glad the review helps.
As for bags vs bottles, I do have an article to compare them here. Hope this helps!
Rina
Hi Rina,
I have bought the Spectra S1 pump after reading your blog post but have yet to use it lol. I am a first time mother and my baby is 2 months now. My baby only drinks via direct latching and I have not introduced bottle to him yet as I still have 2 more months of maternity leave.
However, I have some questions and I hope you can help me with them. When I start work, I do not plan to keep a stash in the freezer but would only pump lets say only for a week’s supply.
1) Is it possible or would this affect my milk supply in the long run?
2) Can I use Avent natural and classic bottles for the 28mm flange without using any adapters?
I am kinda worried as my boy drinks a lot and I do not even know the exact amt he drinks as he latches on like a ‘free flow buffet’. Sometimes up till 30-45 mins.
I hope you are able to give me some advice. Thank you!
Hi Sasha, Sorry for the late reply, I was away for a 12-day trip.
(1). Storing 1-week supply wpuld be enough, as long as you keep pumping regularly while you are away from your baby at work (i.e. don’t miss pumping too frequently), and make sure to empty your breast thoroughly (do massage, etc).
(2) Yes, you can use avent bottles directly with 28-mm flange
it’s normal for younger babies to drink a lot and taking time while nursing (mine was like that, too =D). Don’t worry, if you are able to produce enough milk for him with direct latch, most likely you will be able to pump enough for him, too -)
Hi Rina,
thanks for the useful info and link to get the Spectra from Amazon. It is really cheaper! But I am not sure if the one they sell on Amazon is the Old Backflow protector or New Backflow protector. I can’t really find much info about it on the Amazon product link itself also. Would you happen to know this? Thanks!
Hi, I’m not sure, too. I tried to ask Amazon, and one buyer answered my question that the back flow protector is the same version as what she bought 2 years ago. So, perhaps the old one.
Hi Rina,
I found your site on google result. very nice and informative site for me. I have bought a Spectra S1 dual electric breast pump. Spectra S1 is a best valuable pump and easy use able.
But i need best bottle warmer on the market. plz help me..
Thanks Rina
Hi Jolia,
Thank you!
I don’t have bottle warmer recommendation for now, perhaps you can take a look here: http://www.babygearlab.com/Bottle-Warmer-Reviews/Buying-Advice
Hi Jolia,
If you want to know baby bottles warmer review post, you can take a look here: http://babymomhq.com/best-bottle-warmer-2017-buying-guideline
Thank you!
Hi Rina,
Really love your website. Has been really informative for a first time mummy like me who is worried about milk supply.
any idea how do i start figuring out what suction strength and cycle to use ? And how to figure out which setting is best for me?
Thank you so much!
Hi Amelia,
Usually I start from the lowest suction and work up until the first time I feel discomfort, and lowering it back down one level, and perhaps one more level down to feel which one I feel most comfortable, yet still feeling enough suction to express the milk.
For cycle, I guess it’s really up to your preference. In general deep suction works best with long cycle (i.e. less no of cycle per min), but in my case, I like fast suction (so I choose 54), because I’m already accustomed with fast pumping rythm with my manual breast pump. Again, follow your feeling. The setting that works best for one mother may not be suitable for other mother, so you need to experiment by yourself.
Hope this tips helps.
Rina
You are seriously amazing! I have the Spectra 1 and thought it wasn’t working properly. Thanks to this post, I figured out what those round suction things are for. Lol This pump is amazing!!!
Are you referring to the massage button? Glad that you are finally figured it out!
Hi Rina,
I pump about 3-4 times a day. I have both S1 and M1, for some reason, everytime I use S1 cycle 38 at levels 3-5 (recommended by my lactation consultant), it doesn’t drain out as effective as M1 level 2. As a result, my breasts keep getting stuck. What should I do? Stick to M1? Or still try S1 but how to use it more effectively?
Also, my baby suddenly refused to latch over this week, what can I do to help her latch on again?
Thanks!
Firstly, I adore your site! I had a big issue with supply a few months ago before my daughter was diagnosed with a tongue tie and I visited your site for some tips to get my supply up before she had it done. So thank you for those first off, they made a huge difference!
Now I’m about to go back to work part time so I need to start pumping and on the look out for a pump…maybe this is the one! I’m wondering though, is the price so low at the moment because a newer model is out soon?? I don’t want to buy and then find out parts have been discontinued etc? What do you think?
Thanks!!
Hi Alice, spectra s1 is very popular right now, I don’t see any reason why they would discontinue it. As far as I know, Spectra S1 is the only heavy duty breast pump with built-in battery. That’s such a unique and Super useful feature.
As for the parts, nowadays it’s even easier to get compatible parts. You don’t need to restrict yourself to Spectra spare parts, you can use medela / Maymom with a special adapter. Same goes for bottles.
Hi, how can I get the S1 to work with Dr Browns regular sized bottles?
Regular size means narrow-neck?
Have you tried using wide-neck to narrow-neck adapter? I think Spectra or Maymom has one.
I actually havent got my pump yet biut want to make sure the dr brown bottles I got from my shower will work with it. They sell a narrow neck adapter for spectra? Sorry I’m new to all of this!
Hi Lisa,
I’m not familiar with Dr Brown Bottle, but is it narrow / standard neck? If yes, you could get wide to narrow neck adapter like this.
Hi! Thanks for all the info. Question: does the filter valve needs to be change often? I understand that the Medela s one break somehow and you change them for cheap, but the replacement valves on the Spectra, are more expensive, do they need to be change often?
Depends on how often you pump daily. But you can use Medela valves for Spectra too.
Would you recommend the spectra s1 or the medela freestyle?
Thanks 🙂
Spectra S1 for sure =)
Hi Rina,
I would like to find out is there any portable pump that is comparable to spectra S1?
Hiya, that’s a tough question >_<. Usually people would choose from the feature that the love the most. If you need the variable speed, go for Freemie. Strong suction: go for Baby Buddha, vibration while massage mode: Spectra 9+. Bear in mind that each pump has its own pros and cons =D.