Categories: Breastfeeding, Milking
November 30, 2023
Last updated: November 30, 2023
Whether you’ve just unpacked your new Spectra pump or are looking for customizable options with insurance coverage, you’ve come to the right place. The Spectra S2 is designed for comfort and convenience and is packed with innovative features such as 2-stage personal control of breast milk removal and 12 levels of vacuum suction reaching up to 270 mmHg.
Spectra S1 includes all the features of Spectra S2 plus a rechargeable battery. This highly popular portable option is offered as an upgrade to most health insurance plans. The 3-hour battery life provides flexibility and makes pumping sessions easier to manage, and working moms are calling this upgrade a “must-have.”
Do I need to buy a breast pump with insurance?
We can help you obtain breast pumps and all supplies covered by your insurance, including maternity expressions, breast milk storage bags, and pump replacement parts. Fill out this form to purchase your breast pump with insurance.
What’s inside the box
Every Spectra breast pump comes with everything you need to start your pumping journey. Inside the box you will find an electric motor breast pump, storage cap, cover, milk collection bottle with disc, feeding nipple, tube, duckbill valve, backflow preventer, and two sets of flanges in sizes 24mm and 28mm. Spectra also offers additional flange sizes such as 16mm, 20mm, and 32mm.
Choosing the right flange size
Correct flange size is critical for efficient milk removal and comfort. The ideal flange size is based on the diameter of the nipple, not the areola. If the nipple is centered inside the flange tunnel, there should be only a few millimeters (2-3) of movement space around the nipple. The entire nipple should fit comfortably so that there is not too much of the areola in the tunnel before milking.
To determine your exact size, schedule Aceleron’s Flange Fit Basics virtual consultation or follow Spectra’s measuring guide and add 3-5 mm to your nipple diameter.
How is it different from Spectra?
Spectra pumps feature natural nursing techniques. Spectra says its Natural Nursing Technology utilizes a customized vacuum and cycle pattern that closely mimics a baby’s feeding at the breast. This natural pumping experience results in a productive, comfortable, and successful pumping session that ultimately yields more milk in less time.
Spectra pumps are also known for their wide range of configuration combinations and are highly customizable. Spectra S1 and S2’s digital controls allow you to set your pumping program to the speed and rhythm that works best for your body. Suction power is adjustable in both massage mode and expression mode. Cycle speed can be adjusted in expression mode. The Spectra S1 and S2 are quiet and have a timer and night light. In addition, Spectra also offers IBCLC support for users using Spectra pumps.
How to operate
As mentioned earlier, there is a wide range of configuration combinations. There is no wrong way to use a Spectra pump, but we recommend starting with a “cycle pump.” Cycle pumping mimics the way a baby feeds at the breast, causing a letdown, feeding rhythmically, causing letdown again, and a longer, deeper suction towards the end of the session. This is an example of cycle pumping using Spectra S1/S2.
Cycle 70 (Massage Mode) 5 minutes Cycle 54 (Squeeze Mode) 5 minutes Cycle 70 (Massage Mode) 5 minutes Cycle 38 (Squeeze Mode) 5 minutes
As you continue pumping, you’ll find the settings that work best for your body. These can change during the trip, throughout the day, or throughout your pump session.
Want to know more?
If you’re excited about your Spectra pump but have questions about what comes with it or how to use it, schedule a free unboxing* virtual consultation with one of our pump experts to learn how to set up and use your new pump You can also. Here are some tips and tricks for pumping breast milk.
*This consultation is free only for customers who order a breast pump through Aceleron. If you have not previously purchased an Acelleron Breast Pump, you will receive an invoice for the standard fee of $25.00. Please submit your claim by your scheduled appointment time.
