What it is
'Which pump' comes down to how often you will use it. Pumps fall into rough groups: manual hand pumps, plug-in double electric pumps like Spectra and Medela, wearable hands-free pumps that sit inside a bra, and hospital-grade rental pumps with stronger motors. The Affordable Care Act requires most insurance plans to cover a pump. Medi-Cal does too. You order through a medical supply company with a prescription, usually in the third trimester.
What's typical
Insurance usually covers one standard double electric pump per pregnancy, with an upgrade fee for wearables. Wearables are quiet and discreet, but most mothers report lower output with them. Hospital-grade pumps are rented by the month, for a baby in the NICU, a baby who is not latching, or supply being built from scratch.
What's known
The FDA considers most personal pumps single-user, because milk can reach the motor. WIC lends pumps to enrolled mothers who are separated from their baby or going back to work.
What helps
- Call your insurance around 28 to 32 weeks, ask which suppliers they use, and get the prescription at the same prenatal visit.
- If you plan to pump a lot, pick a plug-in double pump. Add a wearable later if you want one.
When to call someone
- Todaythe baby is not latching or is in the NICU and you have no pump. Ask the hospital for one before you leave.
- At your next visitinsurance has denied the pump, or you want help choosing for your return to work.
Who helps
Tools: Feeding Prep · Birthworker Directory
Related
- Pumping: how, when, how oftenFeeding Your Baby
- Flange sizingFeeding Your Baby
- Returning to work and pumpingFeeding Your Baby
- WIC and food assistanceCalifornia: Leave, Money, and Paperwork
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Sources
- US Food and Drug Administration — Breast pumps: choosing and using one safely
- HealthCare.gov (US Department of Health and Human Services) — Breastfeeding benefits under the Affordable Care Act
- USDA WIC Breastfeeding Support — Breast pumps for WIC participants
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