For nursing mothers, investing in a breast pump is an essential tool to help maintain the hygiene of their babies, maintain a healthy milk supply and balance their work-life schedule. However, breast pumps can be quite an expensive investment, which is why insurance providers now offer free breast pumps to nursing mothers. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting a free breast pump through insurance.
What is a Breast Pump?
A breast pump is a device that helps extract milk from the breast of a nursing mother. The milk can then be stored for later use, or fed to the baby through a bottle. Breast pumps come in different shapes and sizes, which can be manual or electric, and vary in cost.
Manual Breast Pumps
Manual breast pumps are operated by hand pumping action. They are lightweight, portable, and cheaper than electric pumps. However, they require more effort, and it can take a longer time to express milk compared to electric pumps.
Electric Breast Pumps
Electric breast pumps are powered by electricity, and they are usually faster and easier to use. They come in single or double electric pump models, with double electric pumps being more expensive. They produce more milk output within a shorter period, which is convenient for mothers who work outside the home.
Why Should I Get a Breast Pump?
There are several reasons why a nursing mother should get a breast pump. Some of the benefits of breast pumping include:
| Benefits of Breast Pumping |
|---|
| 1. Convenient and Flexible Schedule |
| 2. Baby’s Intake Can Be Monitored |
| 3. Relief from Engorgement and Mastitis |
| 4. Increased Milk Supply |
| 5. Dad or Other People Can Help with Feeding |
Convenient and Flexible Schedule
With a breast pump, a nursing mother can pump milk at any chosen time, and the milk can be stored for the baby to use at a later time. Pumping also helps establish a feeding schedule that works well for the baby and the mother, especially when the mother has to work outside the home.
Baby’s Intake Can Be Monitored
When a nursing mother pumps her milk, the baby’s intake can be measured, and the mother can know how much the baby is taking. This ability to monitor can help identify if the baby is not taking enough milk or if there is a drop in milk supply. It can also help determine if the baby is getting enough milk during the feeding sessions.
Relief from Engorgement and Mastitis
Engorgement and mastitis are common among nursing mothers, but breast pumping can help relieve the symptoms. Pumping can help remove excess milk, reduce swelling, and pain. Additionally, regular pumping can increase milk supply and prevent infection.
Increased Milk Supply
Frequent pumping can increase milk supply by providing more stimulation to the milk ducts. When the breasts are emptied regularly, a signal is sent to the body to produce more milk. This ability to increase milk supply is beneficial to mothers who have low milk supply or those who have trouble latching.
Dad or Other People Can Help with Feeding
Breast pumping makes it possible for mothers to express milk that can be fed to the baby by others like dad, grandparents, or caregivers. This support is essential, especially when the mother is not available or when she needs a break from the feeding routine. It also allows others to bond with the baby and reduces the mother’s workload.
How to Get a Free Breast Pump Through Insurance?
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most insurance companies are required to cover the cost of breast pumps for nursing mothers. Under the ACA guidelines, mothers are eligible to receive a breast pump either as a rental or to keep as an individual purchase. Here’s how you can get a free breast pump through insurance:
Contact Your Insurance Provider
The first step in securing a free breast pump through insurance is to contact your insurance provider. Find out what type of breast pump they cover and how to get it. Some insurance companies may require a prescription from your doctor before they provide a breast pump.
Choose Your Preferred Breast Pump
Once your insurance company approves your request, you can choose your preferred breast pump. You should consider factors such as cost, ease of use, and portability. You can either choose an electric or manual breast pump depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Place Your Order
After choosing your preferred breast pump, you can now place your order. You can order your breast pump online, through the insurance company’s website or by phone. Once you place your order, the breast pump will be shipped directly to your doorstep, free of charge.
FAQ
Are All Insurance Providers Required to Cover Breast Pump Costs?
No. Only insurance providers regulated by the ACA must provide breast pumps for nursing mothers free of charge. If your insurance company is not regulated, they may not cover the cost of a breast pump.
What Types of Breast Pumps Are Covered by Insurance?
Insurance providers cover both manual and electric breast pumps. However, the models may vary depending on the insurance company. Always check with your insurance company to see which models they cover.
Can I Get More than One Breast Pump?
Most insurance companies provide only one pump per pregnancy. You can only receive another pump if your doctor recommends it and your insurance provider approves it.
What Happens if I Change My Insurance Provider?
If you change your insurance provider, you will need to reapply for a breast pump. You may also need to get a prescription from your doctor again, and the pump’s brand may vary depending on your new insurance provider’s coverage.
Can I Still Get a Free Breast Pump if I Have Medi-Cal?
Yes. Medi-Cal is a government-funded insurance program that is regulated by the ACA. Nursing mothers who are covered by Medi-Cal are eligible to receive a breast pump free of charge.
Can I Get a Breast Pump Even if I am Not Nursing?
No. Insurance providers only provide breast pumps to nursing mothers who are breastfeeding their babies.
The Bottom Line
Getting a free breast pump through insurance makes it possible for nursing mothers to manage their work-life schedule and maintain a healthy milk supply. By following the steps outlined above and checking with your insurance provider, you can receive a breast pump without incurring any costs. Always choose a breast pump that fits your lifestyle and preferences, and if you have any questions, consult your doctor or lactation consultant.