What is a hospital grade breast pump?

Generally, a hospital grade breast pump is a multi-user device rented to one mom at a time and is designed with special customization options to maximize breast milk expression. Hospital grade breast pumps are usually created with features like strong suction and unique expression technology that make it easier for moms and babies with certain medical conditions to feed with breast milk. Because these pumps can be rented to many different moms throughout a product’s lifespan, these devices are also equipped with distinctive safety features to prevent breast milk contamination. The Food and Drug Administration does not certify breast pumps as “hospital grade,” so each mom should discuss her options with a doctor to ensure she is renting a multi-user, hospital grade breast pump from an authorized provider. 

What is a hospital strength breast pump?

In many cases, the term hospital strength is used purely for marketing, so it can mean different things depending on the breast pump brand. For most breast pumps, hospital strength simply means that it has customizable and powerful suction settings, so moms can express breast milk efficiently. Breast pumps have a wide range of suction strengths, and many of the newest pumps come with state-of-the-art features designed to make breast pumping as easy as possible. Some hospital strength breast pumps are even made to be wearable so moms can pump hands-free without sacrificing suction performance. Basically, there’s not much a hospital strength breast pump can’t do.

Is a hospital strength or hospital grade breast pump right for me?

In most cases, a hospital strength, double electric breast pump is powerful enough to help moms express breast milk comfortably and quickly. Plus, most insurance plans completely cover the cost of a double electric breast pump to help moms through their breastfeeding journey. Therefore, a hospital grade breast pump is not right for everyone, and most new moms can find a hospital strength breast pump that meets their needs and doesn’t break the bank. Moms who need a hospital grade breast pump may be able to qualify through insurance if their baby has specific medical conditions. Approved conditions vary depending on each mom’s insurance plan but often include premature birth resulting in low birth weight, an extended stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), or a birth defect that affects a newborn’s physical ability to breastfeed.

At Pumps For Mom, we are passionate about helping moms get the tools they need to breastfeed successfully. From breast pumps to postpartum compression garments, our products are made to make moms’ lives easier. Our maternity product specialists can walk moms through the process of getting a breast pump through insurance so they are ready to breastfeed with confidence as soon as their little one arrives. Explore our available products and qualify for a breast pump through insurance today!

Differences between an electric breast pump vs. a manual breast pump

The most notable differences between an electric and manual breast pump are pretty easy to see! An electric breast pump, understandably, uses an electric-powered motor to express breast milk automatically. On the other hand, a manual breast pump does not use a motor or electricity to express breast milk. Instead, moms use a hand-held pump that relies on suction to express breast milk. Additionally, electric breast pumps often come with tubing and flanges that make it possible for moms to pump from both breasts simultaneously, while a manual pump can only be used on one breast at a time. With these different features, certain breast pumps may be better suited to different moms’ lifestyles.

Who should use an electric breast pump?

Over time, electric breast pumps have become increasingly popular due to their ability to help moms pump quickly and comfortably. Therefore, electric breast pumps are usually best suited for moms who are breastfeeding exclusively or need to express a significant amount of breast milk each day. With innovations in silent motors and even wearable pumps, electric breast pumps may be an ideal solution for breastfeeding moms that are ready to return to work. There are countless electric breast pumps designed to meet the diverse needs of moms, with features like optional battery power, compact and lightweight motors, and smart tools like Bluetooth compatibility. 

Who should use a manual breast pump?

Electric breast pumps may be efficient, but they may not be best for every mom! As stated in the name, electric breast pumps are dependent on a steady supply of electricity to keep the motor running. While some electric breast pumps do come with rechargeable battery power, their ability to work at their best is dependent on having a power outlet nearby. Manual breast pumps allow moms to express breast milk wherever they are without needing to be plugged in or charged. Additionally, moms who only need to pump occasionally can get the best bang for their buck with a manual breast pump, which may be more affordable than an electric breast pump if moms cannot get their breast pump through insurance. 

The most important factor in finding the right breast pump for you is learning what you need as a breastfeeding mom. If you are going to be exclusively pumping and want to maximize your flexibility through your breastfeeding journey, you may want to explore electric breast pumps. If you are rarely going to be away from your baby and will only need to pump occasionally, a manual breast pump may be best for you! The key is to listen to your instincts and prioritize your needs. 

The Pumps For Mom team is proud to work with moms to find the best breast pump for them. With our wide range of breast pumps through insurance and our team of maternity product specialists, we have experience helping moms find the breast pump that best meets their needs. Explore our available products and qualify for your breast pump through insurance today!

Evaluate what your breastfeeding needs are.

If you want to breastfeed exclusively for the first few months of your child’s life, take some time to think through the logistics. Will you nurse your baby for every feeding? Will you supplement with formula? What will you do if you struggle with low breast milk supply? Your breastfeeding journey will not go perfectly according to plan–that’s the nature of motherhood! If and when a challenge comes up, it’s best to have a backup plan ready to go. Breast pumps can give moms a little extra flexibility throughout their breastfeeding journey and help them adapt easily to the challenges that can arise.

Find the right breast pump for your lifestyle.

All breast pumps are designed for the same purpose, but they are not all created equal. With differences in suction strength, portability, comfort, and customization options, moms may need to do a little research to find the right breast pump for them. Additionally, certain breast pumps may be completely covered with your insurance, while others may require some payment out-of-pocket. To find the breast pump that works for your lifestyle and is covered by your insurance, work with the maternity product specialists at Pumps For Mom. We make it quick and easy to verify your insurance coverage so you can get the breast pump through insurance that is best for you.

Create a schedule that works for you.

Whether you are using a breast pump exclusively or you are only expressing breast milk on occasion, having a go-to pumping schedule can provide a bit of stability in the day-to-day chaos that comes with a newborn. In addition to some consistency, a breast pumping schedule can signal to your body to create a steady breast milk supply, even if your little one isn’t very hungry. Many moms struggle with low supply, especially in the early days of breastfeeding, so pumping as often as possible can encourage your body to increase milk supply to keep up with demand. Additionally, breast milk can last for several months if stored properly in a freezer, so you can build up a stock of breast milk that anyone can feed to your baby even if you are away from home. 

Whether you breastfeed, pump, or rely on a combination of the two, your breastfeeding journey is uniquely yours! You know what’s best for you and your little one, so stay strong and keep breastfeeding even when times get tough. You’re doing great, mama!

When it comes to breastfeeding, the Pumps For Mom team has your back. Whether you are ready to order your breast pump through insurance or just need to restock your breast milk storage bags, our maternity product specialists are here to help. We are passionate about assisting moms through every step of their breastfeeding journey with helpful medical equipment covered by insurance. Work with Pumps For Mom and qualify for your breast pump through insurance today.

Convenience

Understandably, one of the main benefits of a wearable breast pump is the incredible convenience compared to a traditional breast pump. Where some breast pumps need to be plugged into a wall outlet or have long tubing that facilitates suction, a wearable breast pump can be placed in any nursing or regular bra and will express breast milk quickly, quietly, and easily. Being able to slip a wearable breast pump into a bra and carry on with a mom’s neverending to-do list completely changes the motherhood game. Due to the compact nature of wearable breast pumps, they are also usually quieter than traditional breast pumps. The Elvie breast pump is the world’s first silent breast pump, so moms can pump anywhere in the house or office without struggling with a loud motor.

Flexibility

Being able to pump without having to find a safe and private room to pump gives moms the ability to provide breast milk for their little one no matter the environment. Many wearable breast pumps are equipped with a rechargeable battery, so moms don’t have to be tethered to a wall outlet and can pump anywhere from the nursery to the grocery store. The Elvie breast pump recharges in around two hours using a micro-USB charger for easy use on the go. Wearable breast pumps allow moms to go about their regular day and take care of every diaper change or load of laundry while pumping completely hands-free. 

Easy to Use

New moms are too busy to read through a complicated instruction manual or constantly disassemble a breast pump to clean it. Accordingly, wearable breast pumps are often designed to be extremely easy to use. For example, the Elvie breast pump has a hands-free design that has no external cords or tubes and features 2-phase expression plus seven levels of suction intensity. This wearable breast pump also has only five parts that need to be cleaned and can be assembled in seconds when you’re done cleaning. By combining reliable convenience, unmatched flexibility, and simple features, wearable breast pumps, like the Elvie breast pump, give moms the features they really need. 

Every mom is different, but there’s a lot to love when it comes to wearable breast pumps. Whether you get a wearable breast pump or transform your traditional breast pump into a hands-free pump with accessories, you can get more done when your day doesn’t have to stop for a breast pumping session.

At Pumps For Mom, we are passionate about helping moms express breast milk in the best way for them and their little ones. With a variety of insurance breast pumps, accessories, and maternity compression products, Pumps For Mom helps new and expectant moms prepare for their breastfeeding journey. We simplify the process of getting your breast pump through insurance, and our experts provide support every step of the way–from getting your prescription to making sure your breast pump arrives at your door. Qualify for your insurance breast pump today!

1.Thinking pain is normal

Breastfeeding may not be comfortable all the time, but it should not be painful, especially as moms learn what works for them. Ongoing nipple pain or continual soreness due to breast engorgement or a poor latch may be a sign that something is going wrong during the breastfeeding process. For example, breast engorgement may indicate that you’re not feeding or pumping enough, while a poor latch may mean your baby isn’t getting all the breast milk they need. Talking with your doctor to address these possible causes of pain can help you breastfeed more comfortably and make sure your little one is getting all the breastfeeding benefits. 

2. Feeding on a strict schedule

As a new mom, it can feel like nothing is in your control when your little one sleeps, eats, cries, and poops whenever they want to. So it’s understandable that new parents may want to introduce a feeding schedule to help establish a routine. However, a strict feeding schedule can cause its own set of problems. For the most part, newborns need to set the rules of feedings because their levels of hunger may be different throughout the day and change as they grow. For example, your little one will initiate cluster feedings when they are getting ready for a growth spurt to make sure you produce enough milk to help them grow. Following the feeding cues of your little one helps ensure your milk supply can meet the demand of your baby so they can meet growth and weight goals. 

3. Questioning your instincts

Every new mom knows that there is no shortage of breastfeeding advice. However, while more information on the breastfeeding process can be beneficial, it may make moms question their breastfeeding instincts. As breastfeeding is a natural process, your instincts are probably right when it comes to breast milk supply, breastfeeding position, latch, and telling when your baby is full. However, constantly questioning if you are breastfeeding the “right” way and going against your instincts can often push you into making more breastfeeding mistakes. If your instincts are telling you your little one is full, he or she is probably full. If you feel like you are breastfeeding the best way for you and your baby, you’re probably right, even if a relative or neighbor is telling you something different. When in doubt, get in touch with your doctor or a lactation consultant, and remember to trust your instincts when wondering if something is going right or wrong with your little one.

4. Introducing formula to deal with low breast milk supply

It can be difficult to know if your breast milk supply is normal, and many moms worry they aren’t producing enough milk to keep their little one full. In reality, most moms have an adequate breast milk supply and create plenty of breast milk for their baby. Moms who are experiencing low supply can try some natural breast milk enhancers, also known as galactagogues. But if you’re concerned about supply and introduce formula too early, you can actually end up decreasing your breast milk supply. When in doubt, don’t introduce anything new when you’re breastfeeding, including formula, before talking with your doctor or a lactation consultant.

5. Skipping pumping sessions

We know how tiring a newborn can be, but consistently breast pumping either during breastfeeding sessions or on a regular schedule can do wonders for establishing a healthy breast milk supply. Especially if you are adjusting to time away from your little one, pumping when you would normally breastfeed is essential to producing enough breast milk to help your baby grow. Skipping pumping sessions can lead to engorgement, discomfort, and a reduced breast milk supply, so stick to your pumping schedule to feel your best and pump like a pro.

6. Ignoring your needs

Becoming a mom can be a magical thing, but you are still your own person, even as you care for your newborn day and night. It can be easy to lose track of the last time you’ve slept for more than a couple of hours at once or taken a shower. Although it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, taking a few moments to tend to your needs will improve your breastfeeding experience and make you a better mom in the long run. Additionally, breastfeeding moms must prioritize eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water so that the body has the fuel it needs to make the breast milk that helps babies grow. To take care of your little one, you have to find time to take care of yourself.

7. Allowing someone else to define breastfeeding success

As mom-shaming becomes an increasingly common occurrence online and in-person, Pumps For Mom is here to remind moms that the only person who can define success for you as a mom and for your little one is you. Especially when it comes to breastfeeding, many moms face criticism and advice coming from all directions. But the way your mom, cousin, sister, or neighbor breastfed their baby does not have to impact your own breastfeeding journey. You get to decide what successful breastfeeding looks like, whether it’s six months of exclusive breastfeeding then transitioning to formula, breastfeeding for two years straight, or exclusively using a breast pump for a year. You know what’s best for you, mama!

Pumps For Mom is passionate about making new and expectant moms’ lives easier by providing a simple process to get a breast pump through insurance. With a wide range of insurance breast pumps and maternity compression garments covered by insurance, Pumps For Mom helps moms get what they need without the stress. Our experts will walk you through every step of the process, from getting your breast pump prescription from your doctor to making sure your pump gets delivered safely to your door. Qualify for your breast pump through insurance with Pumps For Mom today!

Do all insurance plans cover breast pumps?

After the passage of the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans are required to cover the cost of breast pumps. Because breastfeeding has such notable benefits for moms and babies, breast pumps qualify as an essential component of preventative healthcare. To be sure your insurance covers your breast pump, you can call the number on the back of your insurance card, chat with an insurance representative, or work with Pumps For Mom! Simply complete our qualification form with some basic insurance and personal information to see what insurance breast pumps are covered by your plan, or read our blogs below to learn how to get a breast pump through your insurance plan. 

• How to Get a Breast Pump Through Blue Cross Blue Shield
• How to Get a Breast Pump Through United Healthcare
• How to Get a Breast Pump Through Aetna
• How to Get a Breast Pump Through Cigna
• How to Get a Breast Pump Through Medicaid
• How to Get a Breast Pump Through TRICARE

What types of breast pumps are covered through insurance?

Each insurance plan covers different breast pumps, so your insurance breast pump will likely depend on your unique coverage. Medela, Ameda, Spectra, and Lansinoh are some of the most commonly covered breast pump brands, and there are several breast pump options from each of these brands. Most insurance plans cover the cost of a double electric breast pump, and in some cases, insurance may offer complete coverage of a breast pump even if you haven’t met your deductible. Talk with a Pumps For Mom expert or contact your insurance representative to see which breast pumps are covered by your plan!

When do I need to order a breast pump?

Different insurance plans cover breast pumps at different times in your pregnancy. Some plans may ship your breast pump to you several weeks out from your due date, while others only cover the pump within a few days of your due date. Most moms tend to order their breast pump around the 30-week mark, which leaves plenty of time for insurance, processing, shipping, and delivery, so you’re ready to pump when your little one arrives. If you have already given birth and are just now considering breast pumping, you may still be able to get a breast pump through insurance. Many insurance plans continue to cover the cost of a double electric breast pump through the first year after birth.

How often can I get a breast pump through insurance? Will insurance cover a second breast pump?

Most insurance plans will cover a new double electric breast pump for every pregnancy, so you can breastfeed with the most up-to-date equipment for each baby. Other insurers may only cover a new breast pump through insurance every year or every other year, so be sure to check your coverage before you try to order your insurance breast pump.

Additionally, some moms may also wonder if they can get a second breast pump through insurance, either to keep at the office or to have as a spare. If you purchased your first breast pump out-of-pocket before knowing your insurance would cover it, you may be able to get a second breast pump covered by your insurance! However, insurers will typically not cover a second breast pump if they have already covered one. So if you want a spare pump for the office or the nursery, you may need to pay out-of-pocket.

What are my breast pump upgrade options?

Along with our expansive range of insurance breast pumps, Pumps For Mom also offers several different options for upgrade pumps for moms who want to be prepared for anything. From tote bags and coolers to breast milk storage bags and extra bottles, upgrade pump packages take breast pumping to the next level. Most breast pump brands offer upgrade options, so explore our range of breast pumps from Medela, Ameda, and Spectra to find the right upgrade pump for you. 

Do I need a prescription to get a breast pump through insurance?

Yes, in most cases, moms do need a prescription to get a breast pump through insurance. Whether you order directly through your insurance or use a provider like Pumps For Mom, a prescription is required because breast pumps are considered medical devices. Pumps For Mom makes the process easy. We can get in touch with your doctor on your behalf if you don’t have your prescription, or you can easily share your prescription with us, and we’ll start the process of getting your breast pump through insurance.

What do I do if my insurance breast pump stops working?

Although we hope your breast pump works perfectly from your first pumping session to toddlerhood, we know that sometimes things go wrong! Most breast pumps through insurance come with a warranty from the pump manufacturer to cover a range of part failures. Pumps For Mom can help you get in contact with your breast pump manufacturer to ensure that you can get your breast pump through insurance repaired or replaced when your equipment is under warranty.

Why should I order my insurance breast pump with Pumps For Mom instead of a retailer?

Most importantly, many insurance companies do not offer any coverage or reimbursements if you order a breast pump through an unauthorized retailer without getting approval from your insurance. The Pumps For Mom experts work with you and your insurance provider throughout every step of the process so you can get the breast pump that is best for your unique coverage. 

Insurance coverage can be complicated, and expectant moms have enough to worry about without stressing about getting their breast pump through insurance. Work with Pumps For Mom and get your insurance breast pump without the stress. 

Pumps For Mom is passionate about giving new and expectant moms everything they need to breastfeed successfully and recover from their pregnancy easily. With a variety of breast pumps through insurance as well as insurance-covered maternity compression products, our experts have the tools to help moms and newborns feel their best. Explore our available products, qualify for a breast pump through insurance, or contact our experts today!

Get the Best Breast Pump for You

The key to successful breast pumping is finding the breast pump that works best for you. Each mom will use their breast pump differently, and some moms may even want to double up on equipment. Working moms may want to have a breast pump that lives at the office and has a quiet motor. Moms who pump at home may choose a less portable, more powerful pump to express their breast milk quickly. Finding the best breast pump for your lifestyle is an important decision. Most breast pumps come with warranties so you can keep your pump working like new.

Did you know that you can get a free breast pump through your health insurance? Insurance providers are required to cover the cost of a breast pump for new moms. At Pumps For Mom, we help you find the insurance breast pumps you qualify for and what an upgrade pump would cost out-of-pocket. Your doctor can recommend an insurance-covered breast pump to meet your needs. Whether you are considering the Medela Pump in Style Advanced, the Spectra S1, or the Ameda Mya, Pumps For Mom has you covered!

Practice Makes Perfect for First-Time Moms

For first-time moms, breastfeeding is a new experience, so stay patient if this process doesn’t come easily at first. Practice makes perfect when it comes to breastfeeding, so start as soon as you can after delivery. Plus the earlier you start breastfeeding, the sooner you can start building up your milk supply. For new moms with a little one in the neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU, breast pumping soon after delivery can get your little one the nutrients he or she needs. It can also encourage your milk supply to increase even if your baby isn’t ready to come home yet.

Master the Let-Down 

Let-down is the reflex in moms’ bodies that encourages breast milk to start flowing and is triggered for a variety of reasons. However, some new moms find that it’s difficult for their milk to come in when their baby is ready to feed. It may be helpful for these moms to pump while breastfeeding because your let-down reflex is triggered by a feeding baby. Feed on one breast and pump from the other to get the most out of each pumping session. For moms who are still getting used to breast pumping way from their baby, it can be helpful to look at a picture or video of your baby, massage your breasts, use a warm compress, or take deep breaths to relax and encourage let-down.

Commit to Safe Breast Milk Storage

To avoid wasting your hard-earned breast milk, new moms need to prioritize safe breast milk storage. From breast milk storage bags and bottles to your everyday food storage containers, there are several safe ways to store breast milk. Some breast pumps come with breast milk storage options so new moms don’t have to think twice about how to store expressed breast milk. 

Most importantly, new moms need to remember that freshly expressed milk should not stay at room temperature for more than four hours and should not be kept in the refrigerator for more than four days. Additionally, all breast milk should be stored in clean, BPA-free, airtight containers. Following these guidelines will help ensure you always have safe and high-quality breast milk when your little one needs it.

Embrace Cluster Feeding

Cluster feeding is when an infant initiates more frequent feedings to take in as much breast milk as possible as they grow. While moms can quickly get worn out by these frequent feedings, breast milk responds to the needs of the baby. Cluster feeding is the go-to option for new moms who want to keep their milk supply up. Cluster feeding is a natural instinct that infants have to increase moms’ milk supply and prepare for important growth spurts. 

Keep Your Breast Pump Clean

Develop a routine for cleaning your breast pump–you will thank us later. Although your breast milk is all-natural and full of amazing nutrients, breast pumps can still pass on germs and bacteria. A clean breast pump means safe breast milk, so it’s essential to clean your breast pump after every use. According to FDA recommendations, all parts that come in contact with breast milk should be cleaned with warm water and dish soap. This simple routine of cleaning your breast pump helps keep your little one safe from harmful germs and bacteria.

We encourage first-time moms to remain patient with themselves as they learn more about what works for them. You are giving your little one an amazing gift by breastfeeding!

When it comes to getting the best breast pump, you can rely on Pumps For Mom. The expert team at Pumps For Mom is here to simplify the process. You can get a breast pump through insurance in just a few easy steps. Fill out our straightforward qualification form, immediately browse individualized insurance covered breast pumps and upgrade options, select your breast pump, and we will take care of the rest. Let us make your breastfeeding journey a little bit easier–contact Pumps For Mom today!

Benefits of Medela

Medela is one of the top breast pump brands. These breast pumps provide proprietary technology that makes mom’s life easier. An added bonus? Depending on your unique coverage, you may qualify for a Medela breast pump for free through insurance. We’ve done the research to find out exactly what makes Medela breast pumps so popular.

• Original 2-Phase Expression Technology: Medela developed this patented and research-based technology that imitates the way an infant naturally feeds. It helps moms maintain optimal milk supply. In the Stimulation Phase, Medela’s breast pumps mimic how a baby begins a feeding with fast and light sucking to stimulate letdown. This phase is followed by the Expression Phase, where the pump uses deeper, slower suction to express more milk quickly.
• Flexibility: Medela offers breast pumps that allow comfort and flexibility for every lifestyle. They come with optional battery power, different carrying options, or a range of prices for every budget.
• Double Electric Pump Options: Double electric breast pumps enable moms to express milk from both breasts simultaneously with an electronic pump. Medela creates several double electric breast pumps so that moms can pump with efficiency.
• Trusted Performance: Medela has been the #1 recommended breast pump brand for over 20 years. Although warranties vary from pump to pump, Medela commits to working with nursing moms to ensure their pumps are helping moms breastfeed with ease. 

What Are My Choices for Medela Breast Pumps?

Pumps For Mom offers new moms multiple choices so you can find the best breast pump that fits your lifestyle. When you work with us, you’ll find some of the most popular Medela breast pumps that can work with your insurance. 

• Advanced Personal Double Breast Pump Starter Set: Insurance frequently covers this compact pump that comes in a soft, easy-to-carry case. Additionally, this product comes with Medela breast shields, breast milk bottles, tubing, and more to keep your pump running at its best. 
• Medela Pump in Style® Advanced: One of the most popular pump options from Medela, the Pump in Style® Advanced, comes in four styles to fit the needs of every nursing mom. The pump can operate from a power adapter plugged into the wall or from a battery pack for moms on-the-go. Additionally, breastmilk bottles, breast shields, and portable coolers are included with each pump. Work with us to see how you can get the Medela Pump in Style® Advanced through insurance.
• Medela Freestyle®: With a lightweight pump, rechargeable battery, and options to personalize and control each pump session, moms can pump freely with the Medela Freestyle®. Each pump comes with a backlit display and timer so you can keep track of your pumping time. Medela Freestyle® pumps also come with a tote bag to keep you organized no matter where you pump.

Can I get a Medela Breast Pump Covered by Insurance?

Get a Medela breast pump through your health insurance with Pumps For Mom. After the passage of the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans must cover the cost of a breast pump. Moms shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial burden of breastfeeding. Work with us to take advantage of breastfeeding benefits and get a Medela breast pump through insurance. 

At Pumps For Mom, get certain breast pumps completely free with insurance. Upgrade pumps may have a small fee out-of-pocket. Our simple qualification form makes it easy to see which breast pumps and upgrades are covered by your insurance. Moms have enough on their to-do lists. Let Pumps For Mom check off your breast pump through insurance.

Travel Breastfeeding On the Ground

For any road trip longer than an hour or two, breastfeeding moms need to be ready to breastfeed or pump on the road. Driving gives you more privacy and flexibility than other modes of transportation but consistent pumping is key. Checking a map and planning your stops before you leave can help eliminate stress and makes sure you pump enough to keep yourself and your little one comfortable. These stops give you a chance to stretch your legs, change any dirty diapers, and pump in privacy. However, a battery-powered breast pump gives you the freedom to pump on the road (only if you are traveling as a passenger or are able to pump safely and completely hands-free while you drive). 

Travel Breastfeeding In the Air

If you are preparing for a flight, spend some extra time planning before you head to the airport. For flights longer than a couple of hours, new moms need to think ahead. Try to reserve a window seat so you can get a little extra privacy if you prefer to feed or pump in your seat. If you would rather pump in the restroom, go for an aisle seat so you can conveniently leave your seat when you need to.

Organize the necessities before you leave for the airport so you have everything you need to breastfeed or pump. Include a nursing cover, breast pump, flanges, and storage bags in one easy-to-reach bag. Many airlines classify breast pumps as medical devices and won’t count it as one of your carry-on items. However, make sure to check with your specific airline before you fly. If you need to travel with any expressed breast milk, the three-ounce limit does not apply. According to the TSA, breast milk is considered liquid medicine, which means you can carry “reasonable quantities” with you on your flight. Be sure to tell the TSA agent that you are traveling with breast milk and remove it from your bag for examination as you go through security. 

Once you’re on the plane, don’t feel self-conscious if your little one gets fussy. Flying can be scary! To help your baby feel comfortable, try breastfeeding during takeoff and landing. The physical contact may help soothe your child. Nursing also helps equalize ear pressure and ease discomfort during the flight. 

Travel Breastfeeding Anywhere

One of the most important things to remember is to remain flexible and patient with yourself and your baby. Every newborn reacts differently when their environment changes. Accordingly, your baby may feed, sleep, or cry more or less than they usually do. Remember that you are doing everything right by just being responsive to the changing needs of your baby!

For moms traveling within the United States, you are also guaranteed certain rights as a nursing mom that should make your life easier. In most states, breastfeeding moms are allowed to breastfeed in public at any time and anywhere. Also, stay on the lookout for public places that have designated lactation rooms where nursing moms can pump or breastfeed in a safe, clean environment. 

Traveling can feel overwhelming for breastfeeding moms. However, taking the time to get organized can help make any trip go smoothly. Bringing a portable breast pump with you when you travel offers more freedom and flexibility. It also helps you maintain a stable milk supply. Don’t be embarrassed when you pump or breastfeed–you are working hard to feed your baby. Hit the road with confidence!

Pumps For Mom makes it easy to get your breast pump through insurance! With top brands like Medela, Spectra, Ameda, Freemie, and Lansinoh, you can find the best breast pump for you with help from the experts at Pumps For Mom. All you have to do is fill out our simple qualification form. You will immediately see which pumps you qualify for through your insurance. Just select your ideal pump, and we’ll do the rest! Order your breast pump through insurance today!

Your Breast Milk is More than Great Nutrition

Mom’s liquid gold is more than just a yummy and nutritious staple to help your baby grow. It is completely natural and designed for infant digestion. It is easy on your newborn’s sensitive stomach and reduces instances of diarrhea. This wonderful, all-natural substance contains a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins that meet the unique nutritional needs of growing babies. Breast milk also has bioactive components specifically designed to help your little one fight bacteria, viruses, and infections. Additionally, breastfed babies may grow into children with fewer instances of allergies, asthma, childhood cancers, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and more. 

The Milk Will Change

If your breast milk seems to be changing, there’s no need to panic! It is designed to adapt over time to meet the changing needs of your child. For example, your first few days of feeding or pumping will produce milk. Known as colostrum, this first milk helps your newborn transition to life outside of the womb. It is packed with protein and other nutrients designed to fight infection and promote healthy digestion. Your breast milk changes over the next few weeks, becoming transitional and then mature milk as your baby continues to grow. The progressive evolution of your milk over the first few weeks after delivery meets the developing needs of your little one.

You also produce breast milk with unique properties at each feeding. At the beginning of a feeding, your body releases foremilk. It is high in volume but low in calories to help your baby feel full and eliminate immediate hunger. As the feeding progresses, you will produce hindmilk, which is low in volume and high in nutrients and calories to help your baby grow. Additionally, if you are breastfeeding through cold and flu season, your body will also produce antibodies that add an extra layer of protection to help your baby stay healthy.

Diet Affects Your Breast Milk

Although breastfeeding is a natural process, your body works extremely hard to produce enough milk to keep your new child full. You need to consume around 400-500 additional calories and at least ten 8 ounce glasses of water each day to make up for what you’re working off when you are breastfeeding. It’s also important to take a multivitamin to make up for whatever nutrients you aren’t getting in your diet. Ask your doctor about the best breastfeeding vitamins or supplements for you!

Remember that baby eats whatever mommy eats! Be sure to stick to a balanced diet full of protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats so your baby gets the most nutritious breast milk. The color and flavor of your milk may even change based on what you eat! 

Proper Breast Milk Storage is Essential

Breastfeeding is not easy, and you won’t want a drop of breast milk to go to waste. That’s why proper storage is so important. According to the CDC, freshly pumped breast milk can stay at room temperature for up to four hours, in a refrigerator for up to four days, and in a freezer for about six months. The milk must be stored in an airtight container to ensure safety and quality for your little one. 

Your Baby Will Set the Pace of Feedings

When it comes to breastfeeding, your child can set the pace of feedings depending on their needs. Feeding on demand instead of on a rigid schedule is better for meeting your baby’s evolving hunger needs and increases your milk supply. It is especially important to let your little one set the pace of feedings, so your body is ready for the inevitable growth spurts in the first few weeks. Your little one may initiate cluster feedings, where the baby feeds for a short period of time but more frequently throughout the day. Their instincts during these cluster feedings promote an increase in your milk supply to make sure you produce enough milk to support your child’s crucial growth spurts. 

Your baby will also develop distinct signs when they are hungry and when they are full. Crying is one of the later signs of hunger, so be aware of early indicators such as restlessness, rooting, putting a hand to the mouth, or smacking the lips to avoid a breakdown. During a feeding, your child will also let you know when they get full. If your baby turns their head away from your breast or bottle, closes their mouth, or relaxes their hands, your little one may be done eating. If your baby seems to get full after feeding from just one breast, it’s important to pump from your other breast to promote steady milk supply and to make sure none of your breast milk goes to waste!

Pumps For Mom is Here to Help

Though the benefits of breast milk are numerous, breastfeeding is easier said than done. Feedings every few hours can be exhausting for new moms, but the use of a breast pump may take some of the pressure off. Is your little one having trouble latching to the breast? Want to pass the baton to your partner for some nighttime feedings? Heading back to work but want to continue breastfeeding? A breast pump is your solution! 

Pumps For Mom is here to streamline the process of getting a free breast pump through your health insurance.  We have been providing insurance-covered breast pumps for moms across the country for over 15 years, and our expertise can’t be matched. With our simple qualification form, you can immediately see what breast pumps you qualify for through your insurance. Pumps For Mom does the legwork to make sure your ideal breast pump gets to you as soon as possible and at the lowest possible cost. We would love to work with you and your insurance to provide your ideal breast pump, so you and your baby can experience the joys of breastfeeding!