Spectra Pump Modes and How I Use Them

One of the most common questions I get is: how do you use the Spectra pump settings?

So today, I am sharing my personal routine and tips with you. Hopefully, it gives you a sense of direction and helps make your pumping journey a little easier. 💛

The Two Spectra Pump Modes

The Spectra breast pump has two modes:

Massage Mode

• Mimics a babys natural suckling.

• Helps to trigger your letdown reflex.

Express Mode

• Focuses on a longer, deeper pull.

• Designed to draw out more milk efficiently once letdown has started.

These two modes work hand in hand, and how you switch between them can really affect your pumping output.


this is the setting that I personally use and I hope that it may give you a sense of direction too!

My Spectra Pumping Routine

Here is what usually works for me:

1) Start with massage mode

I like to begin with this because it triggers my letdown fastest.

2) Switch to express mode after 2 minutes

Once I feel the letdown, I move to express mode. Personally, I use a very strong suction (max!) because my body is seasoned and I do not feel pain. But remember: always adjust to what feels comfortable for you.



3) Back to massage mode if flow slows down

Sometimes after a while in express mode, milk flow slows. When that happens, I switch back to massage mode to trick my body into thinking baby needs more milk. As soon as I feel another letdown, I switch back to express mode.



This back-and-forth between massage and express modes keeps the milk flowing.

My Pumping Sessions

• I dual pump only, because I do not want to waste time.

• My sessions are usually just 10 minutes long when I can fit them in.
  
  
  

• Most of my milk comes from latching, but the milk I pump is added to my freezer stash. This comes in handy when I need to leave the baby with grandma or when I go back to work.

Final Thoughts

This is just my personal Spectra pump routine. Every moms body is different, and pumping is definitely not one size fits all. Go with the settings and timing that make you comfortable and listen to your body. 💛

I hope my sharing is helpful. If you have your own Spectra settings or routine that works well for you, feel free to share even the smallest tip could help another new mom.

- Nisa