A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Breast Pump for You

If you're considering breastfeeding, having a breast pump can greatly enhance your journey by allowing others to feed the baby and providing you with some well-deserved rest.

However, there are so many breast pump options to choose from that choosing the perfect breast pump for you may become overwhelming!

The cost of breast pumps can also be a concern for many. Fortunately, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance policies now cover breast pumps for free. If you're worried about dealing with insurance-related complexities, rest assured that our friends at Babylist Health will help simplify the process.

In this blog post, we'll guide you through choosing the perfect breast pump for you and getting your breast pump covered by insurance.

What type of breast pump do I need?

There are three main types of breast pumps to choose from:

• Double electric breast pumps: The most popular pumps are designed to express milk from both breasts simultaneously. These pumps are efficient time-savers for mothers who need to pump frequently or exclusively. You can choose from many different types of models to best suit your needs, including wearable pumps and portable pumps.
• Manual breast pumps: These pumps rely on your hand's power to create suction. They are compact, affordable, and suitable for occasional use or as a backup option.
• Single electric breast pumps: Powered by electricity or batteries, these pumps offer convenience and efficiency. They are ideal if you plan to pump regularly but not excessively.

What breast pump features are the most important?

To narrow down your options, pay attention to the following features and accessories:

• Suction strength and speed settings: Look for pumps with adjustable suction levels. This will help ensure optimal comfort and mimic your baby's nursing pattern.
• Portability and battery options: If you need to pump on the go or in different locations then choose a pump that is lightweight, compact, and offers battery-powered operation.
• Ease of cleaning and assembly: Opt for pumps with fewer parts and dishwasher-safe components for hassle-free maintenance.
• Breast shield size options: Many breast pumps come with interchangeable breast shields. This is to accommodate different nipple sizes for a comfortable fit.
• Additional accessories: Consider the availability of compatible milk storage bags, bottles, cooling packs, and carrying bags for convenient and organized pumping.

What are the best breast pumps?

Check out BabyList’s Best Breast Pumps list. Their editors review thousands of survey results, customer reviews, and their own real-life feedback to curate their best breast pump list.

What is the easiest way to get it through insurance?

First and foremost, obtaining a free breast pump doesn't mean settling for a subpar, generic machine. In fact, your insurance benefits may cover a brand-new version of the exact pump you had in mind, including popular models from trusted brands like Dr. Brown's, Spectra, Medela, Willow, Lansinoh, and more. By visiting Babylist Health, you can easily input your state of residence and insurance provider, instantly accessing a list of covered breast pump options. If you prefer a more premium pump, upgrade options are also available for an additional cost. Once you select your preferred pump, simply complete the order form. Babylist Health will handle the verification of your insurance coverage and even request a breast pump prescription from your doctor. Before you know it, a brand-new breast pump will be delivered directly to your doorstep, complete with free shipping.

Do I need to wait until my baby arrives to order a breast pump?

No, you don't have to wait. You can order as early as six months before your due date or up to six months after your baby is born. Babylist Health will securely hold onto the pump until your insurance plan permits its release, which typically occurs approximately 30 days prior to your due date. Once your pump ships, it should arrive within 5-10 days.

Choosing the perfect breast pump for you is a significant step in your breastfeeding journey. And with BabyList Health, you can now ensure that you’re getting the exact same quality and type of pump of your choosing through insurance instead of paying full price. Happy pumping!