This review should have been completed years ago when I first used it, the Spectra S1 was my first ever insurance issued breast pump, suggested by my sister in law. I will admit, I’m glad I never wrote a review that early on because now, 6 years later, I feel I have a better understanding and more solid opinion on this pump. Even though I will never love, or hardly like this pump, I am confident that it can very well be a fabulous recommendation for many. Let’s take a journey back to 2018..
Leading up to my multiples birth I needed to choose my insurance provided pump, with literally no understand of what this even meant or what I was supposed to do with this thing, I turned to my sister in law. Thankfully Gina had recently given birth to her first and was successful using her Spectra S1, naturally that was her recommendation and who was I to refuse the help. Flash forward my multiples are delivered, neither are able to successfully latch and I needed to get them milk somehow, cue the Spectra. I had no idea how to use this thing or what to expect out of it, as far as how it would physically feel while suctioning my breasts. What I can tell you is that something about the repeated tugging on my nipples was enough to make me want to punch a hole in a wall. It wouldn’t be until later when I realized it wasn’t only the tugging that bothered me but the vibration incorporated into this particular make of pump.
This is a tough review because I can confidently tell you I do not like it, I do not like the vibration and I feel there are more effective pumps on the market a quarter of its size. But, oddly, in the same breath I will also tell you that it is a top choice for many. I think it can go both ways, so I always like to ask a few questions when helping choose whether or not this pump should be your first choice.
Question 1: have you ever felt triggered by overstimulation on your chest.
Reasoning: the Spectra S1 and S2 have an accompanied “purr” of the motor. The best way to describe this is by imagining a cat purring, or roll your tongue and “purr” like a cat would. This is the sound and feeling the spectra S1 and S2 give. For some, they find this extra feature stimulating and super useful while triggering a letdown. While others, such as myself, find it repulsive and over stimulating. I have an issue with people getting too close to my ears or poking me in the chest- does this have anything to do with my nipples? Probably not, but it could be a reflection of my sensitivities which boil down to being easily and overly stimulated. All I’m saying, if you can relate to anything I just said or the thought of additional purring on your nipples sounds maddening, then this pump may not be for you.
Question 2: Which pump did you use during your previous pumping journeys or if there wasn’t a previous, which pump may you have possibly used in the hospital.. was it the Medela Symphony? If so, did you like it?
Reasoning: If you mention the symphony as your first pump and you either liked it or disliked it, can be a leading factor on whether or not the spectra S1 or S2 is a good fit for you. The symphony doesn’t incorporate vibration. So if you share that you’re not into the straight mechanical tugging of the symphony then I think there’s a good change you’ll be happy with the Spectra S1 or S2. If you did like the mechanical tugging of the symphony then there’s a chance you may not like the additional feature of the spectra.
You don’t know what you don’t know.
This is big, if you’re just starting out and you’re reading this and still thinking,
what the eff is Kristen talking about, this purring thing makes no sense to me
I respect that thought process that you might be experiencing right now. To this is I’m going to say, the Spectra S1 and S2 are quality pumps, they have a motor life of 1500 hours, which is fabulous. They’re basically on everyone’s list of covered pumps and nowadays that list can be long and full of crap options. When choosing an insurance provided pump I would always encourage you to get your best bang for your buck while choosing a pump that can effectively be used as a primary, reliable option. So if you’re going through this list and you’re seeing all these options that are mobile, in your bra, options or anything Medela, steer away from all of the above and go right to the Spectra. Ideally the Spectra S1 is my top choice because it has a rechargeable battery.
Last tidbit I want to toss in about the S1 and S2 is the ability to change cycle speeds and suction strengths. This is going to be a leading reason why I find this pump to be a fair choice as a first choice, especially for newbies. Having these options allows you to really dial in what you find most comfortable. Having options is a good thing, there are many instances where the cycle speeds are preset for you and all you’re able to do is set the suction strength. This isn’t all bad, unless you’re given poor options cue the Spectra Synergy Gold Portable.
Now let me shake things up, if you have the Spectra Synergy Gold (not portable) as an insurance option and you don’t care about being plugged into a wall, then 110% get that pump! A part of me has a hard time figuring this one out but I don’t hate the vibration of the SG. The only thing I can figure is the suction pattern on the SG is slightly longer than the pull of the Spectra S1/S2, with this lengthened pull, I can tolerate the vibration better. I still don’t like it, but I can tolerate it. Read the full review of the Spectra SG here!
At the end of the day, there is no doubt this pump is a quality choice. Just because it’s not right for me doesn’t mean it won’t be a good fit for you. I think that should go without saying when you read any of my reviews. The difference here is the fact that it is, in fact, a good pump, it’s just got that extra “feature” that for some, is not a bonus.
Courtesy of Spectra
Click here to see how to check your S1/S2 hours used!
Are you still wondering where in the world to start when considering a first time pump? check out this blog next!!
If you're looking for a mobile pump, something small to keep you moving forward but with less weight, check out this review!
Many Moms who move on after the Spectra tend to lean toward the
Pumpables Genie Advanced
On November 19, 2024 I polled the bemybreastfriend community their thoughts on the Spectra's vibration, check it out!
