Spectra have released a new version of the S1 electric breast pumps. If this is your first time using the pump, you probably won’t know any different. However, you may notice that all of the information and advice out there is geared towards the ‘old’ cycle settings. For those of you who have used the pump before, the new settings may confuse you. So let’s break it down simply here.
Cycle vs Vacuum Buttons
A quick refresher:
Cycle = speed of suction (sucks per minute)
Vacuum = strength of suction
It’s a great idea that you get familiar with your pump by understanding how to use the various settings.
Let down mode: 70 – 105 cycles per minute
As per the old model, you will know you are on let down mode when you see the three wavy (~) lines on your screen. I recommend starting your session on let down mode to get your breastmilk flowing, and then changing to express mode once you see it dripping.
The old version of the Spectra S1 only had a cycle speed of 70 on let down mode. There was no option to increase this. With the new version, you have more options and the number on the screen is now represented by C (cycle) and the numbers 1 – 5 (slowest to fastest). The faster speeds may be handy for people who feel like they need that faster suction to initiate a let down.
Here are the conversions for cycle speed on let down mode:
- Level C1 = 70
- Level C2 = 80
- Level C3 = 90
- Level C4 = 100
- Level C5 = 105
The vacuum options on let down mode are the same as the old model, i.e. Levels 1 – 5.
If you want to try a faster cycle speed on let down mode, I would recommend starting with a lower vacuum strength and seeing how your body feels. Never sit on a setting that is causing pain or discomfort. Start low and work your way up, but only if it feels right for your body!
Express Mode: 38 – 54 cycles per minute
The old version of the Spectra S1 listed the cycle speeds in express mode as 38 (the lowest cycle), 42, 46, 50 or 54 (the fastest cycle). The new models have kept the same speeds and simply have the new numbering system.
Here are the conversions for cycle speed on express mode:
- Level C1 = 38
- Level C2 = 42
- Level C3 = 46
- Level C4 = 50
- Level C5 = 54
The vacuum options on express mode are the same as the old model, i.e. Levels 1 – 12. However, I *almost* never recommend using the highest vacuum strength on express mode.
Remember – faster/stronger does not necessarily equal better results. Comfort first!
If you would like 1 on 1 guidance to improve your milk flow or comfort, consider booking in for a pumping consultation. Virtual consults are available for those not based in Melbourne.