Breast Pumps

Breast Pump Guide

Sharon’s Breast Pump Guide For New Moms

Breast Pumps / By

Are you a new momma having trouble making breastmilk for your baby or want to bottle up more for your supply?

Here’s your ultimate breast pump guide to help you out!

When I was a new mom I had to learn on the fly, so hopefully my advice can save you and your family a struggle.

Producing breastmilk isn’t the same for all new mothers. Factors like too much milk, fat accumulated in your tissues, or insufficient pumping or massaging can affect the flow of milk. 

That’s why breast pumps exist, to help stimulate your breast and produce more milk for your infant. They have come a long way through these years, from manual pumps to mechanical ones. So you now have more options to choose from. 2022 technology is head and shoulders above that from just a decade or two ago, so put it to use.

But how will you choose which one fits you the best? This article will help you precisely with these concerns and others related to pumping compared to breastfeeding. 

Table of Contents

Breastfeeding Vs Breast Pumps

You may have read about the numerous benefits of breastfeeding your baby including benefits for your infant’s health, your milk production, and much more. And this has made you decide that you only want to breastfeed your baby.

But what about pumping?

Should you just breastfeed your baby or pump as well?

Is pumping as effective as breastfeeding?

If you decide to feed your baby pumped milk exclusively, will that be okay?

What are the cons?

How about doing mixed pumping? 

In this section, we will look at what exclusive pumping can do and its benefits and compare exclusive pumping with mixed pumping.

  • Exclusive Pumping

Babies have their own schedule for sleeping and feeding, which may not always match your timings. What if you’re out in a public place with your infant and it gets hungry? You may not be able to feed them milk if you hesitate to breastfeed in public or if there isn’t a breastfeeding safe place.

Exclusively pumping your breast milk will allow you to keep the supply at hand wherever you are. You can feed your baby at any time, as well. And if you’re a working mom, you can keep some supplies bottled up in the refrigerator so that someone can feed your infant. 

Exclusive pumping can help you a lot if you feel pain while breastfeeding, if your baby has a deformity on the lips, or if your infant is premature and hasn’t developed the natural suckling action yet. All of these are possible.

  • Exclusive Breastfeeding

Usually, doctors recommend breastfeeding babies exclusively for their first six months. This has benefits for both the mother and baby, not just healthwise, but also milk-wise. However, one con to this can be actually being able to do this every two hours. People have to work. Things come up. No one should judge if you choose not to breastfeed.

  • Benefits for Babies

Mostly, babies naturally have the ability to latch on to their mother for lactation. With exclusive breastfeeding, you can help your baby improve their suckling so that they can get more milk, which means more benefits.

During lactation, you and your infant are in eye contact and skin-to-skin contact. This helps your baby feel more secure with you and bond better. Me and my kids briefly had some breast feeding time, but I was not able to feed nearly as long as some mothers.

The CDC is a great government source for research information and provide in depth research on the benefits of breast milk.

  • Benefits for Mothers

Your baby’s suckling can sometimes be more helpful than a pump, especially when you need to break down the excess colostrum. Besides, the more your baby lactates on your breasts, the more your milk production and milk flow will improve. 

Exclusively breastfeeding your baby has other benefits as well. Because it releases oxytocin in both you and the baby, you both will bond stronger. It also helps to reduce uterine bleeding after giving blood and helps your uterus get back to its previous size as much as possible.

However, exclusively breastfeeding may not be helpful sometimes. Sometimes, when your baby gets hungry in the middle of the night, you may not be able to supply milk instantly. You’ll need time to massage and prepare yourself for lactation in case you have a low flow of milk.

  • Mixed Pumping

Sometimes, you may not find it practical always to pump your milk and have to wash many extra parts. Also, in some cases, breast pumps may not achieve what your baby’s suckling motion can. In cases like these, using both breastfeeding and breast pumping is the best option. 

This is also the most suitable method for working moms. If you’re a working mom, you can nurse your baby before going to work and fill up bottles of your milk for your baby before you head off for your work. If you have to run errands without taking your baby, this method works well for it too.

Mixed pumping also gives the best results in milk production. Don’t just rely on stimulating with electric pumps. Use a combination of your hands and breast pumping to produce the most amount of milk for your infant.

  • Benefits of Pumping

Let’s look at the benefits that pumping breastmilk has for you and your baby:

  • You have the perfect control over when you can feed your baby and also feeding them when you’re out of the home. 
  • If you’re low on milk supply, you can use pumping to massage and stimulate milk with different settings that breast pumps have nowadays.
  • Usually, breast pumps and baby milk bottles come with calibration. You can observe how much milk your baby consumes on average by comparing how much milk you’ve pumped out and how much milk your baby drank.
  • You can have backup milk for your baby if you’re a working mom or if you’ll be out for hours while your infant is under someone else’s care. They can bring the milk out of the cool storage, heat it up, cool it down again, and feed your baby with it.
  • If your breasts have become sore from breastfeeding constantly or is bleeding, pumping your milk in bottles will help you a lot, not just to feed your infant but also to let your breasts heal.

When Should You Consider Breast Pumps

Even if you plan to breastfeed your infant exclusively, there can be circumstances that will make you consider using breast pumps. Let’s look at the instances when you should consider breast pumps to pump milk for your baby:

  • Low Milk Supply

Some new mommies may have a hefty amount of milk oozing out, while others can suffer from a low milk supply. Breast pumping can help a lot in such cases. 

Settings like different massage motions and frequencies of pumping can help break down any clots in the breast tissues, stimulating milk flow. Your milk in the first few days after your baby is born is extremely crucial, as it’s packed with nutritious elements. 

If you find that your mammary glands aren’t producing enough milk most of the time, you can pump your breasts to bottle some milk after lactating your infant and freeze them for later use. 

  • Delayed Milk Flow

There are instances when your breasts are full of milk, but you can’t get it out due to milk fat blocking the flow. This can delay the natural milk flow. Sometimes, your baby’s suckling can’t break it, which is when the breast pump comes in handy.

Since they have different settings for different frequencies of massaging and vibrations, you can use the breast pump to break the clogs. This will bring back the normal milk flow.

Some mothers also don’t get the milk flow they’re supposed to get after giving birth. Pumping breasts works well to stimulate milk in this case. However, it may take some time, which is why they need to rely on fresh breastmilk from other mothers.

  • Adoption

Sometimes, women who have had miscarriages often move to adopt a baby immediately. Because of the pregnancy, they may already have active or developing mammary glands. They can stimulate milk production by routinely using breast pumps for a few days. 

There is also a process called induced lactation. Usually, mothers who take babies via surrogates use this procedure to form a stronger mother-baby bonding, which they couldn’t develop during pregnancy.

You can induce lactation by regularly massaging your breasts by hand or with a pump or by a combination of both. Sometimes, women also take hormonal medicines that increase the production of milk with prolactin, provided that it’s been prescribed by doctors. 

Some women naturally produce way more milk than their babies can have. They choose to bottle that milk up and give it to mothers who need milk for their babies, be it for the adopted babies or because those mothers aren’t able to produce enough milk in any way. 

  • Separation/Returning To Work

Are you a working woman who went on maternity leave after your baby was born? Are you planning on returning to your work after your baby is a few months old? If you are, you won’t be with your baby in those hours. Don’t worry though; you can pump and store your milk for your infant through pumping. 

But before you do that, you need to train your infant to take milk from the bottle. This will take time, so start pumping your milk from now, so that both you and your baby are prepared when you return to work. 

Start with this practice as early as possible. You need time to accumulate with how you need to pump your milk, how you can stimulate it, how you should store it, how you’ll prepare it for your baby, and how you need to train your baby to have milk from the bottle without being too fussy. 

  • Health Issues

For mothers who suffer from certain health conditions or skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, they shouldn’t breastfeed their babies. 

Psoriasis makes the skin so sensitive that the baby’s suckling can make the nipples bleed. And with eczema, the skin constantly sheds, which can be a  breastfeeding hazard for the baby. 

In such scenarios, the only healthy alternative is to pump breastmilk and store it in bottles. However, if you’re infected with HIV, tuberculosis, or any other virus, then you should consider using formula since your breastmilk will transmit the viruses to your baby.

However, you can keep this phase of your life as a memory despite not being able to breastfeed your baby. For instance, you can make a breast milk ring out of your breast milk. You will essentially need to turn your breast milk into a stone and fix it on a ring. Wear it as a memory on your fingers or as a locket, whichever you prefer more!

Types of Breast Pumps

You could only wish that there was a ‘one-size-fits-all’ breast pump, but that’s not possible since women’s bodies differ vastly. Each type of body has a different shape and different milk production capacity. You also need to consider your daily functioning with these. 

Luckily, there is something for everyone. From the vast array of types of breast pumps, you can try and choose whichever fits you well and performs the best and most comfortably. 

  1. Manual

There are three types of manual breast pumps- a bicycle horn pump, a handle or lever pump, and a tube pump.

The bicycle horn pump has a breast shield shaped like a manual horn tube, with a hollow rubber ball attached to the other end. Pumping that ball creates a vacuum and pulls the milk out. Doctors discourage using it as it’s difficult to clean and dry properly.

The lever pump is a lot like those water bottles we use to spray water on our indoor plants, just a breast cup replaces the nozzle tip. You place that cup on your breast securely and press on the lever or handle to create suction, which will pull out milk into an attached container.

Another similar type of manual pump has a smaller tube that you need to pump in and out of a larger tube to create a vacuum in the breast cup, which will pump milk out into a container.

  1. Silicone

Compared to other breast shells or cups that barely sit attached to your skin, a silicone breast pump has a suction that adjusts to your shape and fits perfectly. This allows for better suction, thus helping to increase milk flow if you have trouble producing enough lactation.

Since the silicone cup sticks well to any surface, you’ll experience minimal leaking when pumping your breastmilk. They’re usually manual, with a suction base that you can squeeze to create a suction and start the flow of milk.

Although they need manual action, silicone pumps are safe, compact, portable, and easy to clean and maintain. You can even sterilize them in boiling water or steam, and they’ll hold their shape properly. 

If you’re using them regularly, however, you must replace silicone pumps at least every three months. This will help maintain the suction, yielding better results.

  1. Wearable

One of the best breast pumps for working and active moms is wearable breast pumps. You can wear it as a nursing bra itself or fit it inside your nursing bra. 

There are three types of wearable breast pumps: hands-free wearable cups with a battery-operated pump, pumping cups with milk bottles attached to a breast pumping motor, and wearable silicone flanges that have a battery-operated motor attached to the top to stimulate pumping.

However, with these pumps, you need to ensure you get the perfect flange size. Otherwise, if they’re too big, they’ll come loose or start leaking. Too small, and you may be suffocating your breasts. Even after that, wearable breast pumps are very popular as they allow mobility and flexibility.

  1. Portable/Wireless

Portable or wireless pumps are as good as wearable pumps. Think about how great it would feel to be able to do your chores and pump your breastmilk at the same time with minimal disruption! 

Portable breast pumps have a rechargeable battery, which you can clip to your clothes or carry in your pockets. You can carry the pump in your nursing bra or hang it around your neck while it’s pumping out milk. 

Two portable breast pumps can fit your need perfectly – Medela Freestyle Flex and Spectra S9. You can make a Spectra S9 vs. Medela Freestyle comparison chart in order to figure out which is more appropriate for your needs and budget.

  1. Battery Operated

A battery-operated breast pump comes with a single pump and a double pump. With a single pump, you can pump milk from one breast at a time. With the double pump, you can pump milk out of both breasts at the same time.

You don’t need a backup power source since they have built-in rechargeable batteries. Some battery-powered pumps, like the Spectra S1, come with many settings and are usually as powerful as the hospital-grade pumps to pump out milk. 

Their lightweight structure and portability make them perfect for use when on the move, for example, in the car or during a flight. Some battery-operated breast pumps can also be attached to an electric motor, which then turns them into electric pumps. 

  1. Electric Pumps

These pumps are the go-to choice for a lot of stay-at-home mothers since they need to pump their breastmilk regularly and in large quantities.

With electric breast pumps, a long chord extends from the suction cup to connect to an external power source. You need to ensure you have a backup power supply in case of a power outage, or you have other suction methods available, such as manual pumping. 

In terms of their usability, the functions they provide, and how portable they are, electric pumps are generally the most budget-friendly option. They are certainly the best value for money. In this category, you can check out Spectra S2, as it’s a good hospital-grade electric pump.

Fit the suction cups to your breasts and select the mode of function you want – massaging, stimulation, pumping, or suction strength, or all chronologically. You can do a Spectra S1 vs. Spectra S2 comparison to see which pump suits your purpose better.

  1. Hospital Grade/Closed-system

Although not something you’d commonly see in households and will find more commonly in – as the name suggests – hospitals, hospital-grade or closed-system pumps are the most powerful breast pumps you’ll find. 

Usually, mothers with premature babies or those who are having trouble getting their breastmilk out, use this pump to stimulate the breast tissues for enough milk to feed the baby in intervals. Besides, mothers who need to pump milk exclusively for their babies can use this breast pump.

While most breastmilk pumps are open systems, meaning there’s no barrier between the milk and the pump, the hospital-grade pump has a milk barrier. This allows the milk to travel down a route without leaking into the pumping mechanism.

One of the best hospital-grade breast pumps you can have at home is the Spectra S2. When you do a Spectra S2 vs. Spectra S9 comparison, you’ll see how well it performs compared to the portable pump. 

How To Choose The Best Breast Pump

When choosing a breast pump, you have a lot to compare. The pumping frequency, weight, parts, noise, and longevity definitely matter. You also need to compare the costs against all the functions, accessories, and the warranty of the product.

Let’s see how you can choose the best pumps for your particular use case based on important factors such as how easy they are to use, where the pumped milk will go, how long you can use them, and how to compare them to the pricing to make sure they’re worth it. You also need to see which breast pumps your insurance covers.

  • Frequency

Before looking for breast pumps, decide how frequently you want to pump your milk. Do you want to do it daily? Or a few times a week? Will you opt for exclusive pumping or mixed pumping? 

Based on these factors, you can narrow down your breast pump search to a few eligible models, and start comparing them before choosing the one that is best for you depending on your use case. 

If you naturally have low milk flow, then you need to have a pump that will have settings for speed, cycles, suction, and vacuum. Closed system pumps are the best choice for such usage. 

  • Cost

Let’s be honest, no matter how useful and practical they are, breast pumps can get expensive, which is why you need to ensure the price you’re paying for the pump is worth it. It should not feel like an expense. Instead, it should feel like an investment for both you and your baby. 

Besides, you need to check whether your insurance covers breast pumps and which pumps they cover. This is especially necessary if you’re planning breast-pumping exclusively or very frequently.

  • Weight

If you plan to start traveling or working soon after having your baby, or as soon as your maternity leave expires, then you should opt for something lightweight and comfortable for you to carry around. Opt for wearable or portable breast pumps, as you can fit them in your nursing bra.

Even if you’re not planning to get back to work, you may need to travel with your baby or run errands with them. Choose an electric or battery-operated pump that’s easy to carry around and can fit easily in a concealed carry diaper bag.

  • Warranty

Breast pumps aren’t just one piece of equipment. They have a number of components that you need to connect and create a system that will help you express milk for your baby. 

Each part has its own lifespan, and these pieces may wear and tear within a short period, especially the tubes, valves, and flanges. This is why you need a warranty for the entire setup that you buy. Check if the warranty allows you to replace these parts separately. 

  • Pumping Location

Where do you see yourself pumping milk often? Is it in your home or your office? A car or an airplane? Or do you need to use the restroom or a nursing room? There’s an option for every location you plan to pump. 

If you’re pumping in your home or plan to pump during office breaks, then a battery-operated or an electric pump like the closed-system pumps can do the job. If you’re pumping in vehicles or in spaces like the restroom, then manual pumps or portable pumps will do a good job. 

How To Use A Breast Pump

For new mothers, breast pumps can be very confusing and intimidating. The amount of maintenance that they require can be overwhelming and the wide range of settings available may be mind-boggling. 

However, if you keep certain things in your mind when trying to assemble the parts and make sense of what’s happening, you’ll get more comfortable with every use. 

Following are the things you should do as a first-time user, and also after you’ve learned how to use breast pumps. 

  1. Read Manual to Understand Functionality of All the Parts of the Pump

Since breast pumps come with various parts and each is connected to the other in some way, they will definitely carry an instructions manual booklet. Read the manual thoroughly to understand what purpose each part serves and how you should connect them.

Besides, the pump may have a lot of settings. Read the manual of your chosen model thoroughly to find out which settings you need to use for massaging, stimulating, expressing, and letdown. 

For instance, some models, like the Spectra S1 and Spectra S2, come with instructions on how many cycles and which suction setting you need to use for which purpose. 

  1. Clean and Sterilize

If your breast pump doesn’t already come with cleaning tools, you can find them in kids’ shops. It’s essential to clean the pump and its accessories immediately after you’re done pumping your milk into bottles or containers. 

You should always thoroughly clean and sterilize your breast pump before your first use. 

Soak the accessories in warm water and dishwashing soap for some time, and then wash them thoroughly. And if you want to sterilize them, check if they’re safe to put in boiling water. If so, you can put them in boiling water for a few minutes, take them out, and dry and cool them.

You don’t need to sterilize them every time you use them. However, sterilizing after every two or three uses or once a day is a good practice to keep your baby safe from germs. But it’s necessary to sterilize after every use if your infant is immuno-compromised. 

  1. Regular Maintenance

Let’s say you’re using an electric or a battery-operated pump. If you want to get the best out of your breast pump, then you need to clean and sterilize the accessories regularly and replace the accessories in time. But that’s not all. 

Replace the valves, membranes, and tubing after every two or three months to prevent tearing and preserve proper suction, and the shields at least once a year. You also need to replace your pump’s backflow protector at least twice a year to ensure milk doesn’t leak into the motor.

Disassemble your breast pump once in a while for a thorough cleaning by following the cleaning instructions in the pump manual. Dry the parts thoroughly afterward, and reassemble them correctly.

Besides, you should never allow your breast pump to run out of charge and shouldn’t let the batteries sit in nil charge for too long. Otherwise, the battery will stop functioning altogether.

  1. Storing Milk

If you’re planning to pump out just a small amount of milk for your infant for the time being, then you can pump it out into a bottle. However, don’t store milk bottles in the fridge or freezer. These bottles may crack at low temperatures as they’re not made to be stored in a cold environment. 

If you plan to pump out a large batch of milk for the whole day or for a maximum of four days, you can pump it directly into storage bags and store them in the freezer. Or, you can store milk in small quantities in washed and sterilized food-grade containers.

You can freeze freshly pumped breastmilk for up to six months. However, you can’t refreeze breastmilk that you’ve already thawed. 

Besides, you can refrigerate thawed milk only for a day. So store milk only in the amounts you need to take out every time you need to feed your baby.

Milk Supply Enhancing Techniques

You can have a decreased milk flow for a number of reasons, such as:

  • Your baby is feeding less than eight times a day.
  • Your infant can’t latch on properly or has weak suckling.
  • You started giving them solid food too early, thus decreasing your breastfeeding frequency.
  • You’re a smoker.
  • You’re often quite exhausted and lack sleep.
  • You’re using smaller flanges compared to your breast size.
  • You started on birth control.
  • You’re pregnant again.

With routine, consistency, and the right techniques, you can increase your milk flow again. Let’s look at the ways you can increase the flow again.

  1. Prepare Before Pumping

This isn’t just applicable for pumping but also before breastfeeding your baby if it still doesn’t want to have milk from bottles. 

Massage each breast for at least ten minutes to stimulate milk production or break down any accumulated milk fat. This will also help your breasts to warm up and produce more milk. Producing more milk easily will help to vacuum your milk better, and can help you prevent sore nipples. 

After feeding your infant, you may still have some milk remaining, which can block or reduce the lactation flow. Massaging can help to pump out that excess milk and allow fresh, nutrient-rich lactation. 

  1. Set Pumping Schedules

Instead of pumping whenever you feel like it and however long you want, set specific pumping schedules. Create a routine of the specific hours you want to pump your milk. Pump each breast for fifteen minutes to have proper stimulation and flow. 

Lay your baby on your chest for twenty minutes after every feeding session. Besides, set a pumping schedule immediately after feeding your baby to drain off excess milk. You may pump for fifteen minutes straight, or pump for a while, rest a little, and pump again for a few minutes.

Test pumping times to see which gives you a better result. Remember, you should follow the schedule religiously to increase your lactation flow and production.

  1. Choose a Pump That Suits You

It’s incredibly crucial to select a pump that will give you enough power and a number of functions to meet your specific purposes. Besides, check if the size of the cups fits your breasts perfectly. 

If you’re breast-pumping frequently and prefer resting while expressing your milk, then you can opt for electric pumps. If you only pump sometimes, then manual pumps are a good option for you. 

If you’re a working mother or you prefer doing your chores, strolling your baby, or working from home while pumping your milk, then battery-operated, wearable, and portable pumps are perfect.

Almost all breast pumps come with a range of cup sizes from which you can find your best fit. If you take a size too big or small, it will affect your milk supply negatively.

  1. Skin-to-Skin Contact

Skin-to-skin contact, or ‘kangaroo care,’ is an essential step if you want to increase your milk supply. Sounds weird? It isn’t, really. 

Skin-to-skin contact with your baby will help you to relax, benefitting you by increasing your milk production. Remember, stress can decrease your milk flow, depriving your baby of essential nutrients. 

Besides, skin-to-skin contact for twenty minutes after breastfeeding will also help your baby be more intimate with you. Your bay will latch better and will instantly start feeding when you try to feed them.

  1. Ten to Fifteen Minutes on Each Side

Whether you use a breast pump to pump out milk or breastfeed your baby directly, you must pump each side for ten to fifteen minutes. 

Why do you need to do it on both sides instead of just one? Switching breasts will help increase the fat content of the milk in every feeding, which will help to maintain your infant’s weight. If your baby is underweight, then this fat will help them to recover. 

Besides, if you frequently switch sides while pumping or breastfeeding, it’ll stimulate the milk flow. Thus you’ll be producing more milk to feed your infant adequately. 

Be careful not to limit your pumping or nursing time in any way though. Otherwise, it’ll have an adverse effect on the amount of milk you’re producing or may clump up in your tissues. 

  1. Draining Excess Milk Afterwards

A breast pump isn’t just for expressing milk for your baby. You can also use it to drain off excess milk after lactating your infant, especially if massaging with your hand isn’t working effectively.

Use suction on your breasts for a few minutes after breastfeeding your baby. Letting out excess milk will prevent your breasts from engorgement, and will also allow new milk to flow effectively. 

So, the next time you feed your baby, they won’t have to suck hard, and you won’t have sore nipples. 

  1. Balanced Diet

Last but certainly not least, no matter how busy you are or how little you have rested, you must have a balanced diet. A proper diet will help you produce healthy amounts of milk rich in nutrients and antibodies for your infant.

If you think you aren’t getting enough vitamins and essential nutrients from your daily food, consult a doctor to take the post-natal supplements suitable for you. If you still think that you aren’t able to feed your baby with your breastmilk, you can opt for formula milk in consultation with the doctor’s recommendations. 

Doctors mostly recommend Enfamil AR and Gentlease for babies with nutritional or weight issues. You can have an Enfamil AR vs Gentlease comparison to see which matches your infant’s requirements. 

Conclusion

Breast pumps can be a tricky subject to learn about and work with for first-time mothers. So, if you’re a new momma, you may have a hard time learning how breast pumps work, which pumps work for which purpose, all the functions and settings, and choosing from the wide range of options in the market.

Being consistent with this device may be difficult, but with the help of this article, we hope you’ll be able to choose the right one for you, and in no time, you’ll be pumping out adequate amounts of milk for your infant daily.

Happy Feeding!

Sharon

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Confused About How to Use Spectra S2? Here Are Some Tips for You

Breast Pumps / By

The Spectra S2 is a great machine that helps lactating mothers with breastfeeding. It can help you increase your milk expression and provide enough supply for your baby. The whole Spectra family is amazing, but this article will focus solely on the S2 model.

My name is Sharon Dunn and I will share my experiences and advice with you. Want to find out about how to use Spectra S2? Keep reading below!

Not only can you use the Spectra for milk storage but you can also use it to increase milk production if you’re breastfeeding.

The pumping system of the Spectra has helped many women with their milk production. It sure did help me when my children were young. Find out more about the tips that will help increase your milk expression below.

Table of Contents

How to Set Up a Spectra S2: A Step-by-step Guide

  1. Assemble the Backflow Protector

The backflow protector stops the milk from flowing back into the tubes. It comes in a set of three parts that you assemble yourself. First, put the thin white part into the smaller transparent part and secure it properly. Then put them into the larger part and make sure it fits correctly. It should look like a spinning top when you are done. 

The Spectra S2 comes with its own backflow protector but you can purchase them from Amazon as well. If you purchase one elsewhere, make sure that it is medically approved and compatible with the Spectra S2. Onto step two!

  1. Connect One End of the Tubing to the Pump

It comes with two tubing pipes. The tubes can be attached to the port at the front of the machine. You can use one or both of the tubes at once according to your preference.

The tubing port comes with a small cap that you can use to cover a port if you want to single pump.

The tubes are made of silicone and can stick to anything from lint to hair, so make sure to keep them clean. They fit tightly on the port and you can just stick them on. You can also buy tubing of a different length from Amazon. 

  1. Connect the Other End to the Backflow Protector

The other end of the tubing should be connected to the backflow protector. Connect the open end of the tube to the narrow point head of the backflow protector. You have to stick it to the larger side with the narrow port that doesn’t contain the white membrane. 

For double tubing just take off the cap from the other port and follow steps 2 and 3.

  1. Assemble the Breast Shield, Valve, and the Bottle

The breast shields are placed on the breasts. These are also called the flanges. The suction is conducted through them. The breast shields come in different sizes. 

The perfect size will fit well on your breasts. If it hurts, then the shields are not the right size. Try replacing them– you can find these on Amazon. 

There are valves attached inside the bottles that are shaped like a duck’s bill. The valve is attached at the bottom of the flanges. You should secure it tightly. The valves create suction on your breasts to cause milk expression. 

Assembling the bottle doesn’t require much work. Just attach the valve properly to the flanges and screw on the bottle. You can use other wide-mouth bottles that fit the flanges with the Spectra S2 as well. 

  1. Connect the Breast Shield to the Backflow Protector

The last step of assembly is connecting the other end of the backflow protector to the back of the flanges in a little space. The larger port of the backflow protector goes into the flanges. Secure it tightly and you are done. The bottles come with lids that you can attach after you’re done pumping.

The backflow protector prevents milk from flowing into the tubing and makes the Spectra S2 a closed system. This is sanitary for you and the baby and can help prevent infections.

Different Uses of Spectra S2

  • Pumping for Breastfeeding

The Spectra S2 is used to pump for breastfeeding and, as we all should know, breastfeeding is much healthier. It helps to stimulate milk flow and aid breastfeeding of the baby. It has different modes that can be adjusted to ensure a steady flow of milk.

Breastfeeding is important for the baby and you need to have a steady supply of milk if you’re planning to do this. Spectra S2 can help you keep a steady supply of milk for your baby. You can use this machine to pump at your convenience to store up milk when you’re not nursing. The different modes can help you pick a suction style that you are comfortable with. You can single pump while nursing your baby on your other breast. This will prevent wasting milk. 

  • Pumping to Stimulate Milk Production

The settings of the S2 can be used to stimulate and increase milk production in lactating mothers. You can use the letdown mode that mimics a baby’s natural sucking to stimulate milk production.

Pumping milk at a stretch for an hour or two during the early hours of the morning or late at night can significantly increase milk production. This method is called power pumping. You should make a routine where you can power the pump at a specific time every day. Pumping late at night between 1 A.M. and 6 A.M. yields more milk because your body secretes high amounts of prolactin during that time. 

Make sure you don’t get up in the middle of pumping. Following this schedule for a few days will increase milk production.

  • Pumping to Increase Milk Supply

You can make routines of cluster pumping to increase milk supply. Cluster pumping comes from cluster feeding. Cluster feeding is when your baby wants to milk every 10- 15 minutes. Cluster pumping copies this pattern to signal your body that the baby needs more milk. 

You can cluster pump regularly for a few days for 2-3 hours at a time. You can start early in the morning and pump for 3 hours straight. Pump for 15 minutes, then take a rest for 30 minutes, then pump again for 10 minutes, and take a break for another 30 minutes. 

You should pump for a little while longer every time you’re done nursing. You should also pump for some extra time after each pumping session even if nothing comes out. This will signal your body that more milk needs to be produced.

  • Pumping to Empty Colostrum

Colostrum is the nutrient-rich milk that your body produces in small amounts during the initial stages of childbirth. This milk is dense and yellow in color. Colostrum is very important for the well-being and immunity of the baby. You can pump to store as much colostrum as you can when the baby arrives using the Spectra S2.

You can use S2 to pump the colostrum before the baby arrives as well. Be careful to properly store it so it doesn’t grow bacteria. 

Different Settings

The Spectra comes with different settings that you can use to control the suction. A great win for the new mom looking for a pump with lots of settings and options. These are given here in detail.

  • Night light: The Spectra S2 comes with a night light that you can turn on during nighttime pumping sessions. The brightness levels can also be adjusted.
  • Letdown Mode: The letdown mode mimics the natural sucking pattern of a baby and can be used to stimulate milk expression. You should not put the flanges on your breast and start on letdown mode or you might get hurt. 
  • Expression Mode: You can switch to expression mode once your milk starts flowing. Expression mode has a slower suction and speed. You can adjust the cycle length according to your preference.
  • Vacuum Settings: The Spectra S2 comes with 12 levels of vacuum strength. You should choose a level that you’re comfortable with and remember that a higher level does not equal more milk supply.

Some Additional Tips

  • Washing the Pieces

You should wash your pumping gear after each pumping session. This will prevent the growth of bacteria. You should also wash your hands before and after pumping. Clean the pumping utensils in warm soapy solutions and dry naturally. You don’t need to clean the tubing since the S2 is a closed system. 

  • Replacing the Valve

The valve needs to be replaced quite regularly. If there is a reduction in suction power or you notice less milk being expressed during pumping then it’s likely that your valve needs replacing. You can easily find these on Amazon. 

  • Replacing the Backflow Preventer

The Spectra S2 is a closed system. That means milk won’t go into the tubing and motor. The backflow preventer does this. Condensation or milk in the tubing indicates that the backflow preventer is not working and needs to be changed.

Conclusion

The Spectra S2 is a wonderful device that offers many settings and comfort for a steady milk supply. It uses a closed system and is BPA-free. It is very useful for lactating mothers who have a low milk supply. The machine contains many adjustable settings and the parts are also replaceable. 

You should be comfortable using it once you get started. Hopefully, this guide will help!

Sharon

imani i2 breast pump how to guide

How to Make Pumping Breastmilk Easy With an Imani i2 Breast Pump

Breast Pumps / By

Breastmilk pumping for your new baby is never easy, especially if you are a first-timer or have more than one child.  Time is the most valuable item for new parents, as sleep, feedings, and overall stress create a huge demand on mom.

When I was pumping I had mixed feelings of getting a task accomplished but also of anxiety just knowing in 2 more hours I would be at it again!

The Imani i2 breast pump can help relieve some of the stress involved in producing milk for your new love! These wearable pumps free up your hands and you can get so much more done around the house.

The discomfort and inconvenience of having to pump milk are unavoidable. Many breast milk pumping kits are often not as handy as needed when pumping breast milk but there are pumps that can make the ordeal a bit more tolerable. 

And as a mother who is already really burned out from taking care of your sweet baby, it may seem like a dream come true to have an easy and convenient pumping material or pump kit. And the Imani i2 breast pump is the answer to easy and comfortable breast pumping. My best friend’s daughter currently has an Imani to pump for her first child and swears by it.

But you might have a lot of questions and concerns regarding the Imani i2 breast pump. Thus, we have outlined everything you need to know about how the pump works down below. 

Table of Contents

Features and Accessories of the Wearable Breast Pump

The Imani i2 Breast Pump is a small, compact breast pump that enables you to quietly pump whenever and wherever you like.

In this section, we will describe the best features and available accessories that it has and how the features add an amazing benefit to all the moms out there.

Pros

Little Noise:

Unlike other breast pumps, the Imani produces very little noise, allowing you to pump breast milk with ease.

It can also be worn as a pump below your bra and is great for pumping at your office when you get back to work.

Hence, it is perfect for mothers who are going back to work after having a baby.

Powerful Suction Strength:

The Imani i2 breast pump offers a reasonably seamless suction design with light but powerful suction. The suction of this breast pump doesn’t vibrate at all.

Multiple Modes:

There are two different mechanisms: stimulation, which has faster performance and lower suction, and expression, which has a lower rate and higher suction.

Suction power is adjusted for each option. It’s really simple to switch back and forth between controls because they are located at the head of the motor.

Ease of Control:

The controls on the Imani i2 breast pump are simple to use, and the switches are also relatively straightforward. Because each pump runs on its own, you can manually set the perfect rhythm for each breast.

There is no application, therefore using the switches just on the pump motor is the sole way to operate the pump.

Cons

Leakage:

Reports of minor leakage around the seals have been noted. It is hard to validate if it is the pump itself or user error.

Supply:

Breasts may lose a little supply compared to non wearable versions.

Availability of Replacement Parts:

These parts seem to be well-stocked by reputable online stores, and spares are competitively priced. 

  • Available Accessories 

In this section, we will have a look at the additional accessories that Imani i2 breast pump has to offer:

  1. Electric Breast Pump Motor x 1
  2. Breast milk collector cup (7 Oz, 200ml) x 1
  3. Funnel 28mm x 1 only or funnel 32mm x 1 pc only  (depends on your option)
  4. Valve x 1
  5. Protector x 1
  6. Connector x 1
  7. LCD screen (timer, battery level, and other components)
  8. Enables you to pause between pumping
  9. Timer with intervals varying from 20 to 40 mins
  10. Transparent cup with visible volume marking 
  11. Comes with a hole to pour the milk along with a tip to prevent milk from spilling 
  12. Doesn’t require any assistance as it is hands-free
  13. No tube or wire hassle
  14. Can save data of breastmilk pumping timing
  15. Light and small device 
  16. LED built-in battery that indicates when cups are full

How to Use the Imani i2 Breast Pump

Use a low suction speed and begin gently while using the Imani i2 breast pump. The pump has the benefit of doing the pumping more efficiently than a traditional breast pump because it performs it for you.

Here are some pointers for using the Imani i2 breast pump:

  • Sanitize your hands. 
  • Check that the pump, container, and components are clean and sterile before use.
  • Ideally, locate a warm, private environment that allows you to unwind and become comfortable.
  • Start by doing a few moments of breast massage will help with the let-down reflex. Seeing a picture of your infant can be beneficial.
  • Turn on the Imani i2 breast pump and position the breast shield over your nipple. Begin at a slow pace, or whatever pace feels most suitable to you. Before the breast milk starts flowing, it might take several minutes, but once it does, you can also accelerate the speed.
  • When your milk flow starts to decline, switch breasts. Then switch back once more in case you have added milk to release. It’s common to notice that one breast may release more breast milk compared to the other.
  • After emptying both breasts, take off the breast shield as well as cap the bottle. You have two options: immediately put it in the refrigerator, or keep it outside at normal temperature for no longer than four to six hours maximum.
  • Clean and sanitize the breast pump and its components.

How to Maintain the Breast Pump

One of the greatest things moms can do for their baby’s health and well-being is to breastfeed them. One option to give your infant breast milk is to pump your own milk. 

Unfortunately, while pumping breast milk, the residue left in the pump can also support rapid microbial growth, which can harm your baby.

By keeping your breast pump sanitary, you can actually protect your infant from harmful bacteria.

Follow the instruction below to get your answer to how you can maintain the Imani i2 breast pump:

  • Clean the countertop, dials, and power switch with antibacterial wipes, particularly if you’re using a joint pump.
  • Disassemble and examine the pump kit. Disassemble the breast pump tube, separating every component that comes into contact with the breast or breast milk.
  • Thoroughly clean any pump components that come into contact with breast tissue or breast milk as soon as possible after pumping.
  • Put the pump components in a tidy sink that is solely used to wash baby feeding utensils. Pump parts shouldn’t be placed straight in the sink since the bacteria in drains and sinks could taint the pump.
  • Include water and soap. Fill the soap dispenser with heated water, cleanser, and cleaning supplies. Use a sanitized brush that is designated solely for cleaning baby feeding equipment if you must.
  • Rinse the pieces by placing them beneath flowing water or by soaking them in safe drinking water in a special sink meant solely for cleaning baby feeding equipment.
  • Allow for full air drying. On a fresh, untouched hand towel or tissue paper, arrange the pump components, in a place free from grime and dust. Avoid rubbing or patting items dry with a dish towel as doing so could transmit the disease.

Conclusion

Overall, we tried to outline how to make pumping breastmilk easy and convenient with the Imani i2 breast pump, and we hope you got your answer to what you have been looking for. 

From maintenance to the features it has to offer, we tried to jot down all the information needed to use the Imani i2 breast pump with confidence now.

It should be clear to you now whether this pump is fit for your purpose or not and, if it is, how you can benefit from it. 

The i2 is a nice updated model in comparison to the Imani i1, but the original, OG version, can still hold its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Imani i2 Breast Pump Medical-Grade?

You can tailor your pumping routine with just this hospital-grade Imani i2 breast pump to produce the most milk possible.

You may change the pace and suction to suit your needs—go slow if you’re more tender, or bring it up to the highest level of ease if you prefer greater suction.

How Often Should I Replace the Accessories of the Imani?

To ensure the best performance of the Imani i2 breast pump, you can change the accessories every one to two months. This will enable greater and more convenient suction when pumping breast milk.

How Often Should I Replace the Tubing in the Pump?

If breast milk or any other moist element seeps into the pump, it might affect the motor. It is advised to change the tubing immediately. Also, if the tubing rapidly slips off while not in use, it is advised to change it right away.

Nonetheless, if moisture jeopardizes the pump, tubing can indeed be cleansed or dried. If not, you can change it every three to six months in general.

How Many Times Can I Use the Imani i2 Breast Pump Every Day?

It is recommended that you use the pump two to four times a day. However, if you feel uneasy or uncomfortable pumping breast milk so many times, you can limit it to twice a day.

Also, if your body is okay with the suction strength and not too sensitive, you can go up to four times a day as well.

The number of times you use the i2 breast pump every day depends on your body and ability to endure the suction.

Thanks again for reading, Sharon!

Using the Freemie Independence Breast Pump

Sharon’s Guide to the Freemie Independence Breast Pump

Breast Pumps / By

As a working mother, breast pumping is something that is essential when it comes to taking care of your baby’s health and wellbeing. The Freemie Independence breast pump is one option to get the job done.

Pumping is not easy and take much work. Having equipment issues only adds to Mom’s frustrations.

And we all know happy wife = happy life, so let’s try to keep the problems to a minimum.

However, pumping breast milk without a proper breast pump can be quite a chore. For instance, the wires, tubes, and other components of typical breast pumps are often hazardous and are not hassle-free for moms who are working in field jobs and need to pump breast milk.

On the other hand, portable, hands-free breast pumps are indeed a lifesaver for any mother’s breastfeeding objectives, even if you’re pumping while working or pumping while doing household chores. 

The Freemie Independence Breast Pump is one of the greatest breast pumps that a mother can buy on the market today. But you might have certain questions for me about the Freemie Independence Breast Pump.

Hence, in this article, we have tried to outline everything you need to know about pumping your breast using the the Freemie. Hopefully, after reading this article, you will have a clear sense of whether this device is for you or not. 

Table of Contents

Features of Freemie Independence Breast Pump

In this section, we will outline the best features that Freemie independence breast pumps have to offer. So if you are wondering whether this will be the right pump for you, this section can help you make up your mind. 

  • Customized Options

Moms can customize the Freemie Independence breast pump with ten degrees of medical-grade speed and suction to suit their personal preferences. The speed and suction levels are indicated by tiny light bulbs on the pump. Easy to use.

Once you’ve found the ideal suction and speed setting, you can store the setting by clicking on one of the three memory slot controls. This makes finding the perfect suction much simpler than having to hit a button several times to get to your desired setting.  Always a win in my book.

  • More Size Options

Given that your nips can vary in size while breastfeeding, the Freemie Independence pump has two flange sizes for individual cups, which can be extremely helpful for mothers who breastfeed more than one child or for extended periods of time.

  • Superior Mobility

This breast pump’s main selling point is its ability to grant mobility. The Freemie Independence breast pump motor base has a garment clip that you can use to attach it to anything you are wearing, thus enabling you to move around with it while it does the work and you can focus on your task easily.

Because the Freemie recharges through a micro-USB cable, you may be able to use the same charging cable for your breast pump as well as for your phone or other portable gadgets. 

After you have pumped for a while, the very next pumping cycle can begin after around two hours of recharging. The amount of remaining life for the pump is indicated by the LED built-in battery indicator on the bottom of the breast pump.

Accessories That Come Along

The Freemie Independence breast pump contains the following amazing accessories in the box:

  • 1 – Freemie Independence Breast Pump
  • 2 – Freemie Closed System Cups
  • 2 – 25mm Funnels
  • 1 – Micro USB Cable
  • 1 – Wall Adapter
  • 1 – Removable Belt Clip
  • 1 – Compact Bag

Using the Freemie Independence Breast Pump

In this section, we are going to help you understand how to properly use the Freemie Independence Breast Pump in order to ensure that the breast milk is pumped in the best way. 

Follow the instructions to have a clear idea of how to use it:

  • Try to be calm to let your breast milk flow.
  • Ensure the nip is in the center to prevent air leaks.
  • Stop and check if the nip is aligned inside the breast cup. Moreover, check whether the suction is moderate if your nip stings as you begin to release breast milk.
  • You will discover that keeping the sessions brief for the initial days, then progressively lengthening them, is helpful.
  • The duration will be quicker if you utilize a dual breast pump kit instead of a single breast pump kit when releasing milk.
  • When you feel confident about handling the pump, you should lower the rate of pumping and raise the suction level. Verify that you can still feel comfortable in it.
  • After you feel the breast has emptied out, slowly remove the pump.
  • You can store the milk at normal room temperature for up to three hours or refrigerate it.
  • After pumping the breast milk, ensure that you are cleaning your breast pump thoroughly to avoid germs and bacteria.

Maintaining the Freemie Independence Breast Pump

Maintaining the Freemie Independence Breast Pump properly is highly important. Especially when you are using it regularly.

Without proper attention and care, you may face issues while using the breast pump. For instance, if the device is not take care of, the pumped milk can have germs in them, which is not ideal for your child.

Read these instructions below on how to properly maintain the Freemie Independence Breast Pump, what to avoid, how to clean it thoroughly, and much more. 

How To Clean The Breast Pump

To prevent serious problems like leaking, follow these recommendations:

  • All parts that came into touch with breast milk should be disassembled and cleaned.
  • Parts should be washed by hand in hot water with liquid soap. 
  • Avoid washing components with other dishes. In other words, wash the pump or its components separately. 
  • Give each component considerable attention.
  • After every use, wash and dry the parts as quickly as you can.
  • Store components apart and out of your child’s reach while not in use.
  • Freemie Cups should not be kept in the refrigerator as parts could come loose, leak or break.

Additional Care

For additional care of the Freemie Independence breast pump, follow the given instructions:

  • To sterilize hard cup pieces, boil them.
  • Only clean the tubing or L-connector if it is dirty by washing it in incredibly hot water and only using it once it is totally dry. Additionally, never use soap water to clean the L-Connector or the tube.
  • If the Y-connector is dirty, wash it in hot soap or detergent, and then give it a thorough rinse.
  • A microwave bag, dishwasher, or steam sterilizer should not be used on any components of the breast pump.
  • UV should never be used directly on the breast pump.
  • Keep the breast pump parts away from high temperatures and cold temperatures.
  • Avoid using abrasives or brushes that can damage the parts.

Advantages of Using the Breast Pump

The Freemie Independence Breast Pump has undeniably amazing benefits.

And to acquaint you with what those special benefits are, we have listed down the possible advantages you can experience when using this breast pump.

  • Easy to Use

The Freemie Independence Breast Pump enables you to have a convenient hands-free pump. In other words, you can pump your breast milk without tubes very easily.

The cups replace the bottles and flanges on your compatible pump. Hence, allowing you to use it anywhere and anytime while wearing any type of clothing. 

At the office or at home, you can pump breastmilk at your desired time and be tension free.

  • Lightweight

The Freemie Independence breast pump contains ultra-comfortable cups with a single or double pump. This enables you to pump breast milk. Up to eight ounces of breastmilk can fit in each cup.

It is portable and convenient. You can simply follow the instructions given within the breast pump kit and reap its benefits wherever you go. 

  • Safe To Use

In addition to being one of the first breast pump cups to be patented, this breast pump is composed of medical-grade plastic that is safe for use with meals.

Therefore, while using it, you will not have to worry about issues regarding breast milk pumping or whether it will be able to store the breast milk or not. 

Disadvantages

Some parents have complained the components are expensive.

Others have mentioned cleaning can be difficult at times.

Conclusion

If you have read this far, you should know how easily you can pump milk for your baby using the Freemie Independence breast pump. From the features it has to offer to how to maintain the breast, you have just learned everything there is to know about this superb device. 

Now we hope you will be able to decide whether this pump will be the best fit for you. Moreover, once you get the pump, the knowledge you just gained today should help you reap the full benefits of this pump, especially when on the move. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Is the Pump Medical Grade?

Mothers can customize the Freemie Independence breast pump’s 10 degrees of medical-grade speed and suction to suit their personal preferences. The speed and suction levels are indicated by tiny lightbulbs on the pump.

How Long Can I Pump Every Day?

The Freemie Independence breast pump’s working duration is described as the typical anticipated utilization of a maximum of three twenty-minute pumping cycles each day for twelve months. The Freemie collecting kit has a sixty-day operational life.

How Often Should I Replace the Parts?

To preserve suction, don’t forget to switch your cup valves once every three months. You should also occasionally re-boil the cup’s hard pieces to keep them tightly fitted.

To keep your Freemie in prime shape, keep it away from dishwashers, abrasives, and steam bags. Also, avoid keeping it at high temperatures as it may impact the Freemie Independence Breast Pump.

spectra s1 vs s2 breast pump comparison

Spectra S1 vs S2 Electric Breast Pumps – Which One to Get? 

Breast Pumps / By

One of the most unique, vital, as well as life-changing aspects of motherhood is breastfeeding. It deepens your relationship with your child and gives them the nutrition they require to flourish. 

As a new mom, I was able to get some breastfeeding in, before I ultimately had to switch to formula. It was a beautiful bonding experience I will never forget.

Due to the high concentration of antibodies and nutrients, breast milk is exceptionally healthy and beneficial for babies.

Although nursing is the best approach to protect your baby’s health, some of you may encounter difficulties while doing so or may not be able to nurse at all for health or personal reasons. This is where a breast pump can help you.  When I was working and the baby was with the sitter, having the pumps handy was a total life saver!

This article compares Spectra S1 vs. S2 Electric Breast Pumps to assist you in choosing the suitable one for you.

Table of Contents

Spectra S1 vs. S2 Breast Pump– What are the Differences?

A breast pump is a helpful tool for all new mothers who may be temporarily or permanently unable to breastfeed owing to various factors and preferences. And no judgement, it is not for everyone and each will have their differing opinions. 

This convenient tool allows you to release more milk from your breasts and fulfill the needs of your child, thereby ensuring that they can get the full benefit of the nutritional components of mother’s milk.

Let’s figure out some key differences between Spectra S1 and S2 Breast Pump.

1. Rechargeable Battery

The battery is the main difference between Spectra S1 and Spectra S2 breast pumps. Your Spectra S1 comes with a built-in rechargeable battery, while Spectra S2 needs to be plugged in each time you operate it.

The S1 variant is portable and convenient thanks to such a function. You don’t need to look for a power outlet when it’s time for you to pump. 

The Spectra S1 needs two to three hours to charge fully. The Spectra S1 battery can power your pump for three hours when fully charged. The Spectra S2 breast pump requires a plug, in contrast to the S1 breast pump. You will need an AC adaptor to run it. 

So depending on the when, where, and why questions, those answers will help you determine which pump will be more useful with respect to how convenient it is when traveling or away from home.

2. Size

The next differentiating factor between both pumps is their sizes. You can hardly notice this difference as it is not visible. Spectra S2 is somewhat smaller in size compared to Spectra S1. One more thing to notice is that Spectra S1 is blue in color while S2 is pink in color. Probably not a deal breaker there, but hey some people are picky!

3. Weight

Weight is the last factor that differentiates both pumps from each other. The Spectra S1 pump is marginally larger than the Spectra S2 pump. The difference is very small and hardly detectable. The Spectra S1 weighs 2.42 lbs, whereas the Spectra S2 holds a weight of 2.0 lbs. Minor impact there. Moving along!

Spectra S1 vs S2 – What Are the Similarities?

We have seen that there are only a few differences between both the pumps. However, when it comes to similarity, both are identical in many ways. 

The power, suction, and capabilities of the Spectra S1 and S2 are remarkably similar. It proves that neither pump can go wrong when it comes to the basics. 

1. Mobility

If you are traveling or outside the home and need to feed the baby, you just need to carry your pump. Let us tell you that both the pumps are portable as they come with a weight of between 2 to 2.5lbs. 

However, the Spectra S2 needs to plug in every time you use it, but you can use it via a car adapter. Spectra S1 has a rechargeable battery which is slightly beneficial in terms of portable use. 

2. Hospital Strength Suction

Strong suction is what distinguishes both Spectra pumps from the competition. The hospital-grade suction has a high power that can rapidly and effectively empty both breasts. With this, you can finish a pumping session more quickly and get more milk for your baby than you could with a pump with less suction.

The Spectra S1 and S2 potent motors can reach suction rates of up to 250mmHg. This results in reduced time spent pumping more milk per session. The cycle speed and vacuum can be changed on each pump. 24mm and 28mm flanges are included with each Spectra pump. So what do those stats even mean? It means both are plenty strong for the job.

3. Backflow Protection

Spectra S1 and Spectra S2 come with a closed system and backflow protection. The built-in backflow barrier prevents the milk from backing into the suction tubes.

The motor of the breast pump is shielded from backflow by backflow guards. They serve as a physical barrier between your milk and the pump motor, preventing contamination of your milk supply.

This is an extremely vital function since it guards against infection and ensures the pumping procedure is more hygienic, making it safer for both the mother and the child. Infections can be very painful.

4. Motor

The Spectra S1 and S2 breast pumps’ 1500 motor hours of projected life are undoubtedly the best quality of the competition. Although it has powerful suction, it is not at all loud. Spectra claims that the pumps have a noise level of 45 decibels which is phenomenal since it will not awake a sleeping family member. Every bit of shut eye is vital to anyone in your home.

You should replace backflow protectors and valves once after pumping for 30 hours. It is similar to pumping three times daily for six to eight weeks. You can replace these two components to increase the suction on your breast pump and lengthen the motor’s life.

5. Adjustable Speed and Suction

Spectra S1 and Spectra S2 allow you to individually modify the suction strength and speed settings, unlike other conventional breast pump models. Both pumps come with expression mode and let-down mode. The cycle speed is set in let-down mode while the expression mode is adjustable.

You’ll generally want to utilize a greater speed while starting a pumping session. Once the milk has begun to flow, you can slow it down too quickly with one touch button. You can also control the suction’s strength and intensity.

6. Two Different Pumping Options

You can simultaneously pump both breasts with both Spectra breast pumps. This is perfect if you’re pumping during breaks at work because it’s quick and convenient. You may also pump one breast at a time with these pumps. Very versatile.

According to research, pumping twice enables moms to produce more milk. Additionally, this type of milk is more nutritious and has more calories due to its higher fat content.

7. Nightlight

The Spectra S1 and Spectra S2 breast pumps have an integrated night light. It simplifies and improves the convenience of using the pump at night. You may check the time, battery life, and power level by pressing a button to turn on the screen. This feature is one of the most underrated ones of the Spectra. Nothing is worse than being able to not see, being tired, and just one more frustrating thing to occur can ruin the night. So the nightlight, while a small detail, does help.

What Factors Should You Look for in a Breast Pump?

Before you buy any breast pump, there are several factors you must look at. We’ve explained some of the points to make things easier for you.

Cost of the pump: There are electric and manual pumps in various price ranges. However, electric pumps are more expensive compared to other pumps. 

Easy to use: You should buy a pump that is easy and convenient. The whole process and system must be user-friendly.

Effectiveness of the pump: The breast pump’s volume of milk in the shortest amount of time can be used to evaluate its efficiency. Ensure you choose a breast pump with more suction speed and power.

Durability: You must determine whether you want to use the breast pump frequently or occasionally. It enables you to choose the right best motor pump. Also, ensure the warranty and lifespan of the motor.

How to Choose Between Spectra S1 vs. Spectra S2?

So, the final question arises which one should you buy between Spectra S1 and S2 breast pumps? Since most of the features and functions are the same, we’ll consider the differentiating factor of both pumps. 

If you’re a woman who mostly stays at home and wants to buy a pump, Spectra S2 is good for you. But in case you wish to use the pump outside the home, like in the office, plane, car, or while on long trips, Spectra S1 is the choice for you. 

Spectra S2 is a little more affordable than its S1 model. So, it’s up to you. We’ve provided you with all the details. Now it’s up to you to choose according to your use case and budget.

Key Takeaway

So far, we have seen significant differences and similarities between Spectra S1 vs. S2 breast pumps. 

Below are our comparison results:

  • The Spectra S1 has a built-in rechargeable battery, and S2 needs to be plugged in for usage.
  • The Spectra S1 is a little bit heavier in weight and bigger in size compared to Spectra S2.
  • Both have backflow protection, adjustable speed and suction, dual pumping options, a nightlight, and a reliable motor.

We have also discovered essential factors to consider when buying a breast pump. At this point, we hope you have a clear answer about which Spectra breast pump suits you.  

FAQs

Are Spectra S1 and S2 the Same?

Though the breast pumps are identical, there’s a slight difference. Spectra S1 has a built-in rechargeable battery and comes in blue color. On the other hand, Spectra S2 must be plugged in while using and comes in pink. Other differences are price range, weight, and size.

Which one is better between the Spectra S1 and Spectra S2?

With a built-in rechargeable battery, Spectra S1 is easier and more convenient for users. If you have a low budget and require home usage, you can go with Spectra S2, which has features almost identical to S1.

What are the pros to getting a Spectra breast pump?

Spectra breast pumps have a closed system with backflow protection to ensure the safety and quality of the milk. An Adjustable suction speed and power is another aspect of choosing spectra pumps over other breast pumps. It also comes with single or double breast pump flexibility.

How do I clean the breast pumps?

The CDC has a quality article on how to clean them in a safe and efficent manner.