Spectra: Spectra offers several different pumps. The spectra S1, S2 and the S9 we will be discussing in this article. Spectra parts are expensive compared to other pumps.
S9: This Pump isn’t as strong as the S2 but is still a strong hospital grade pump. It’s great for pumping on the go because it fits in your pocket. The pump can be used as a single or double electric pump. It has a let down mode that mimics hungry baby to get your milk flowing. It has a built in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 3 hours.The Pump has an LCD Display that shows you how long you have been pumping, battery life and allows you to adjust pump speed and suction. This pump is a bit loud but it’s cheaper then the S2.
S2: The spectra S2 plus is a double electric breast pump that can also be used as a single electric. It is a closed system pump- has a physical barrier between the pump and the milk to ensure motor performance. It has a maximum sucking strength of 250mmHg. It has digital controls and includes a let down mode to mimic the quick, gentle sucking baby does at the breast to encourage a let down. The suction is adjustable in both let down and expression mode. The pump is also noted to be very quiet. The pump also comes with a night light and a timer.
Spectra S1: The spectra S1 has all of the features of the S2, except it also has an inbuilt rechargeable battery. It is powered by an AC adapter and built in rechargeable battery. Like the S2 plus, it also has a maximum sucking strength of 250mmHg. It can be used as a single or double pump. The suction is adjustable in both let down and expression mode, and the pump also includes a timer and a night light..
Medela has multiple pumps. The Medela Freestyle, The Medela Pump in Style Advanced, and The Medela Symphony are the ones we’re discussing. Medela parts are relatively inexpensive to get.
Medela Pump In Style Advanced: This pump is fast and efficient. The Pump In Style is designed with a “two-phase expression process” that is designed to mimic that of a baby nursing. The pump starts with a quick, gentle, repetitive tug which aims to stimulate your let down reflex (beginning of milk flow). It is portable, with the pump built right into the tote bag. It comes with all the parts including a cooler and ice pack. It really is the best value for the price! This pump is an open system pump which means that it should only be used by one person. It is not possible to completely sterilize the inside of an open system pump.
Medela Freestyle: This pump is great for moms who travel a lot! It has a backlight display, timer, and a memory button to record your sessions. The hands-free feature is not easy to use and it is reliable.
Medela Symphony: Hospital Grade Pump, has a two phase let down that helps get milk faster, the units have adjustable vacuum. This unit is expensive and not very portable. Great for NICU moms.
Ameda Purely Yours: While some moms never have an issue this pump is known for loosing suction. The pump tends to work better with medela flanges and tubing but it still is not great. This pump comes with a battery pack.
Hygeia Q: The Hygeia Q is an open system, personal use, double electric breast pump. It can be used as a single or double electric breast pump. It has independent speed and suction controls that allow you to control the strength and speed of the suction of the pump. It is powered by an AC adapter. This pump is the only pump endorsed by La Leche League.
Willow Go
Willow’s newest wearable breast pump fits comfortably inside the bra, with no wires or tubes, pumping directly to containers no special bags needed. This pump is sized like typical pumps but only has a 90 minute battery life and 25 minute pump cycle. Most women need a 50 minute cycle from this pump as it is not as effective as a hospital grade pump.