My First Breast Pump: Spectra S1+

Like any first-time mum, I was clueless about which breast pump to get. Peers around had it, online community raves about it and it boasts itself as a hospital-grade pump. And there we have it, Spectra S1+ became my first breast pump. I got it second hand during my third trimester as I was unsure if I had breast milk supply to begin with. To all small chested girlies like myself, don't worry, milk supply is not determined by your cup size! Apart from genetics, discipline and finding the right pumping modes that fit you can boost your breastmilk supply tremendously.

My First Impressions

Once you get the hang of it, setting up Spectra S1+ isn't as daunting as it seems. Most importantly, you have to get the correct flange size for yourself. With the correct flange size, your areola should not be pulled into the flange (this means the size is too large!). I learnt this the hard way 1 month into motherhood, and my areola became very sensitive.

How I Have Tested

As Jamie was in the high-risk jaundice category, we zeroed in to bring her jaundice levels down. I stopped breastfeeding temporarily and converted to exclusive pumping to ensure Jamie drinks enough breastmilk regularly.

When I was exclusively pumping during my confinement period, I pump both sides of my breasts together, once every 3 hours, for 15-20minutes. I use the Massage mode (level 3)) for the first 2-3mins, and the remaining time for Expression mode (level 7)

As my milk got thinner post confinement, using Massage mode (level 3) was sufficient.

Take your time to find the settings that fit you, balance it with comfort and yield. Combine the pumping sessions with massage helps to unclog the milk ducts efficiently. At 1 week post-partum, I pumped an average of 90ml. At 2 weeks, it climbed to 120ml per session, well enough for Jamie.

Pros and Cons

I like how I can pump hands-free with the Spectra S1+ just by wearing a proper nursing bra. It is also battery operated, and I only need to charge it once a day. As there are still tubings attached, I feel that I'm not entirely mobile. I have to bend slightly forward in order for my breastmilk to flow down nicely into the bottle (I think it has to do with the shape of my breasts). I wish the flanges in the market could have better designs! I spend most of my pumping sessions with Spectra on my couch, relaxing and catching up on Netflix.

The yield for Spectra S1+ is satisfactory, and I can feel my breasts soften after each pumping session. Ah, the joy and relief it brings! If you feel that your breasts are not drained properly, you may seek advice from lactation consultants to help you out.

The settings are highly customisable, giving me a lot of freedom to play around the settings, depending on how engorged my breasts were or how sore my nipples were.

The breast pump's dual light mode feature is also a nice touch, great for late night pumping sessions in the bedroom. I wouldn't have to worry about my husband waking up during my pumps.

The Final Score

Spectra S1+ is as good as what the online community says. If your key consideration is yield, Spectra S1+ is an excellent fit. A great choice for pumping mums where you spend most of your pumping sessions at home. If you are always on the go, you can consider a wearable pump instead.

4.5/5, highly recommended for first time mums to try out!