A comprehensive guide to spectra pump settings
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This article is all about how to optimize Spectra pump settings. I’ve been using a Spectra breast pump personally for the last 7+ years for over 67 months of total pumping and nursing as a mom of four. We’ll go over how to make the most of your Spectra breast pump to give you the most efficient and comfortable pumping experience. Whether you have the Spectra S1, Spectra S2, the Spectra Synergy Gold, or the Spectra Synergy Gold Portable, this information is common across Spectra breast pumps except where noted below.
Spectra S1, Spectra S2, and Spectra Synergy Gold Electric Breast Pumps
understanding your spectra pump settings: a quick start guide
Massage Mode vs. Expression Mode
Spectra pumps are designed with two primary modes: massage mode and expression mode.
Massage Mode - think of this as your warm up. This mode mimics the suckling of your baby and triggers your let down. I typically use this for the first 1-2 minutes of pumping.
Expression Mode - switch to this mode once your letdown occurs and your milk starts flowing. This will be your most efficient pump setting for the majority of your pumping session.
Adjustable suction strength
Spectra pumps offer 12 different levels of adjustable suction strength (levels 1 - 12, except for the Spectra Synergy Gold pump, which has 15 levels). I recommend starting with a low suction strength to start and then gradually increasing until you find a setting that is both comfortable and effective. Stronger suction does not necessarily mean more milk, so find the sweet spot that works best for you. At a level 12, the Spectra pumps have a suction of 270 mmHg.
Customizing cycle speed
The cycle speed is the frequency of suctions per minute, and the Spectra breast pump allows you to adjust this. Both the Spectra S1 and the Spectra S2 have cycle speeds of 70, 54, 50, 46, 42, and 38. This means that the pumps range anywhere from a 38 cycles per minute on the slow end to 70 cycles per minute on the higher end.
Like suction strength, there is no perfect answer for cycle speed. For this setting, I again recommend you experiment with different cycle speeds to find which works best for you to maximize both effectiveness and comfort.
Nightlight feature
Did you know that your Spectra pump has a built-in nightlight? It’s ideal for those late-night pumping sessions and adds some convenience to the pumping process.
pro tips for spectra pump settings
Mimic your baby’s sucking pattern: Observe your baby’s sucking pattern (I recommend setting a 1 minute timer and counting the number of times they suckle) and try to mimic it using the massage and expression modes. This can help trigger your letdown and also helps you find that sweet spot of cycle speed that will work best for you.
Comfort is key: A higher suction or faster cycle speed doesn’t always mean more milk. You’re more likely to continue pumping and thus providing breast milk for your baby for a longer period of time if it is a comfortable experience for you. Focus on finding a suction strength and cycle speed that provides efficient milk removal AND is comfortable.
Experiment with pump settings: Don’t be afraid to keep experimenting until you find the best combination of suction strength and cycle speed that works for you to maximize efficiency, milk production, and comfort. This can take some trial and error, so have patience as you experiment with different Spectra pump settings to find the best combination for you.
Specta Breast Pump Settings - Video Tutorial
Troubleshooting Common concerns
Pain or discomfort
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, you should first try dialing back the suction strength. Pumping should not be painful.
Low milk supply
If you are experiencing low milk supply, you should experiment with different settings and try breast compressions while pumping. A few other tips to look into include ensuring you’re getting good nutrition, hydration, and sleep. Additionally, you should check that you are using the correct flange size. The Spectra pumps come standard with both the 24mm and 28mm sizes, so be sure you’re using the one that fits you best as that can impact breast pump efficacy and comfort.
Replacement pump parts
Over time, your Spectra pump parts may need replacement, or you may want to purchase extras to have on hand. You can easily order Spectra replacement pump parts. Here are the most commonly replaced Spectra pump parts:
Here is the recommended frequency for replacing pump parts directly from Spectra’s website.
Recommended timeframe for Spectra pump parts replacement.
Ultimately, finding the perfect Spectra pump settings is about what you comfortable, maximizes milk output, and supports your overall well-being. Embrace the flexibility the Spectra pumps offer, and don't hesitate to reach out to Spectra's customer support or consult with a lactation consultant for personalized advice. From a 7-year and counting happy Spectra breast pump user, I wish you happy pumping!