By Melissa Portunato MA, IBCLC 

For many moms, wearable pumps have become a total game-changer—offering the freedom to pump while holding your baby, managing a jam-packed schedule, or simply taking a moment to relax and enjoy some much-needed pumping “me time”.  

With its all-in-one design to wear, pump, store, and feed, the Spectra® Premier Wearable Breast Pump was made to simplify your routine—and it’s the only wearable pump that lets you feed your baby directly from the same bottle you pumped into. As a strong secondary pump, it pairs nicely with Spectra’s traditional double electric models like the Spectra® S1 or S2, giving you added on-the-go flexibility without compromising your milk supply.  

Keep reading for must know expert IBCLC tips to help you make the most of your wearable pumping experience. 

1. Read Your Manual for Assembly Instructions

A successful pump session always starts with proper assembly. Start with the basics by reading your wearable breast pump manual for step-by-step instructions. Proper assembly directly affects suction, and reviewing the manual will also help you understand the pump’s settings and cycles—so you can get the most out of every session.  

Here’s the step-by-step guide to assembling the Spectra® Premier Wearable: 

1. Start with the pump body – insert the duckbill valve and backflow protector onto the flange.  
2. Attach the breast pump cover securely over the pump body.
3. Firmly press the bottle into the assembled pump body and cover.
4. Last, click the pump motor into place.

A secure seal and tight fit on the wearable bottle or milk collection container are crucial for effective suction and milk collection. Always double-check that each part is properly connected before use.

2. Don’t Settle for Weak Suction

When selecting a wearable breast pump, suction strength matters. The Spectra® Premier Wearable offers up to 280 mmHg, which is hospital-strength suction in a wearable and hands-free design. This is ideal as a secondary option to maintaining milk supply, especially if you’re exclusively pumping or returning to work.

3. Find Your Perfect Rhythm

Your baby’s suck pattern isn’t one-size-fits-all—your pump shouldn’t be either. Start pumping at a faster speed or cycle per minute (massage) and once milk slows or stops, switch to a slower speed (expression). 

The Spectra® Premier Wearable gives you 5 adjustable suction levels for massage and expression. It offers 3 advanced expression cycle patterns to mimic your baby’s natural nursing rhythm.  

Here are quick and easy settings to get started with the Spectra® Premier Wearable: 

• 5 min Massage Mode Vacuum Level 2
• 12 min Expression Mode 1 Vacuum Level 3
• 5 min Massage Model Level 3/4
• 8 min Expression Model 2 Level 3
  Total 30 min, adjust vacuum to comfort if needed

Learn more about Spectra’s 4 unique wearable pumping modes HERE.

4. Aim For Proper Positioning

Wearables are discreet and mobile, but correct positioning is everything. Before bringing the wearable pump to your breast do this: 

• Lean slightly forward
• Gently center your nipple inside the flange tunnel
• Lean back and ensure the pump is placed firmly around your breast 

A poor seal can reduce suction and lead to leaks or discomfort. You should feel gentle, rhythmic pulling—not pinching or pain.

5. Use Your Hands Before & After

With all wearable pumps, hands-on pumping is limited because compressing the breast or adjusting the pump during a session can break the seal and interfere with suction. To support effective milk expression, it’s helpful to use hand expression before and after pumping for about 5 minutes each time. This will stimulate quicker letdowns and prepare your body for pumping. After you finish pumping, spending another 5 minutes with hands-on techniques can help stimulate more milk production for the next pumping session. 

Extra Bonus Tips for Wearable Pumping Success 

• Boost output with skin-to-skin, using a warm compress, pumping near your baby, or listening to music. This all helps with triggering a letdown.
• Pump on the go—but don’t forget posture: Stay upright or slightly reclined while wearing to avoid milk leakage. 
• Charge ahead: Always check your battery level before leaving the house. A full charge gives you about 4-5 pumping sessions.  
• Clean with care: Wash all parts that come in contact with milk after every use. Let them air dry completely before reassembling. Hand washing is always best.  
• The Spectra® Premier Wearable includes a 24mm flange tunnel, which is compatible with most silicone inserts. Pumping should never pinch or hurt. Find flange sizing guidance here.  
• Choosing a Bra: Wear a supportive, well-fitting bra. Avoid bras that are too tight; they can interfere with proper positioning and reduce pumping efficiency. 

Whether you’re exclusively pumping and need a reliable secondary option or simply need more support using a wearable pump, these tips are here to help you feel confident and stay on track with your breastfeeding goals. 

Have questions about the Spectra® Premier Wearable Breast Pump? Check out our easy-to-follow instructional videos for step-by-step guidance HERE. Spectra Baby USA has in-house IBCLCs always ready to help at IBCLC@spectrababyusa.com.  

You’re doing an incredible job – keep going and trusting yourself as you create your beautiful breastfeeding story!  

Source:

Bendixen, M. M., Iapicca, L. C., & Parker, L. A. (2023). Nonpharmacologic Factors Affecting Milk Production in Pump-Dependent Mothers of Critically Ill Infants: State of the Science. Advances in neonatal care : official journal of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses, 23(1), 51–63. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANC.0000000000000990