When should I order a breast pump through insurance?

If you are pregnant, the best time to order a breast pump is as soon as possible! Ordering a breast pump through insurance can require some collaboration between moms, doctors, and insurance representatives, which can take some time. Therefore, as soon as a mom knows she is pregnant and wants to breastfeed, she can begin the process of ordering a breast pump through insurance. A mom can qualify for a breast pump at any point during her pregnancy, however some plans will only cover the cost of the breast pump and ship it at specific points in the pregnancy. For example, some plans will cover the cost of a breast pump within a few weeks or months of the due date, while others may only approve coverage after the baby is born. Regardless of when your insurance will approve your breast pump, you can begin the process and qualify with Pumps For Mom as soon as you are ready!

When should I start using my breast pump?

Many moms want to provide breast milk to their little one as soon as he or she is born, which is why it is important for moms to qualify for their breast pump as soon as possible. In fact, medical professionals usually encourage breastfeeding or breast pumping within a few hours of delivery, especially if a newborn needs to spend some time in the neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU. Moms can begin using their breast pump as soon as they are ready to provide breast milk to their little one after delivery and can continue to use their breast pump for as long as they want to breastfeed!

How do I order a breast pump through insurance?

Many insurance plans require a breast pump prescription from a medical professional, so moms should talk to their doctor about breastfeeding and learn more about the benefits of a breast pump. Once they have their prescription, moms can work with Pumps For Mom to qualify through insurance and order the insurance breast pump that best meets her needs. Our simple qualification form makes it easy for moms to see which breast pumps are commonly covered by their insurance plan. Plus, our maternity product specialists will walk moms through every step of the process, from verifying insurance benefits to their breast pump arriving at their door.

New and expectant moms have questions, and the Pumps For Mom team has answers. Our wide range of available insurance breast pumps, our simple qualification form, and our experienced maternity product specialists are all designed to help moms get the best breast pump for them. Explore our variety of breast pump brands and maternity compression garments through insurance, and feel your best as you become a breast pumping pro.

Keep your delivery method in mind.

A lot of changes come with motherhood. But in those first few weeks after delivery, moms need to be careful to let their body heal based on how they delivered their little one. For moms who delivered vaginally, the abdominal and pelvic muscles need weeks to heal, and a compression product can protect these areas and promote healing. Moms who delivered via C-section need to be especially aware of their incision site and should look for a postpartum compression garment that keeps this area safe and doesn’t strain recovering muscles. For example, the Siena C-section recovery garment offers seamless compression in the hips, lower back, and abdomen. It’s also designed with a side zipper, so moms don’t have to strain their C-section scar to put the product on! 

Learn what your body needs.

Each mom is different and will have different areas that need closer attention throughout her recovery. When choosing a compression garment, take some time to learn what your postpartum body needs. If you are noticing back or abdominal muscle pain, you may want to look into a compression product that focuses on these areas. The Angelica postpartum recovery garment, for example, has seamless support throughout the abdomen with targeted compression through the belly and upper mid-section. If you had trouble with circulation during your pregnancy, you may want to try compression socks to encourage improved circulation through your legs as you recover. You know your body best, so respond to what your body needs with postpartum recovery products! 

Double-check the sizing guide.

It will come as no surprise to new moms that your body has changed a lot in the past nine months! And every change was exactly what your miraculous body needed to make sure your little one arrived safely. When it comes to a postpartum compression garment, your proportions may have changed compared to your size pre-pregnancy. Take an extra minute to look over a compression product’s sizing guide so you can be sure to get the right size and make the most of your postpartum recovery. 

Ready to try a postpartum compression product? Work with Pumps For Mom! Our maternity product specialists can help you find the best compression garment for you, and we can even help you qualify through your insurance. Pumps For Mom is passionate about helping moms feel their best. Whether it’s finding the right insurance breast pump for your lifestyle or exploring maternity compression products, our team is here to support you! Explore our available compression products or qualify for a breast pump through insurance today.

Are breast pumps covered by Anthem?

The Affordable Care Act requires almost all insurance providers to cover the cost of breastfeeding equipment and support for however long a mom breastfeeds. And in most cases, Anthem and its subsidiaries will completely cover the cost of a double electric breast pump for new and expectant moms. Each plan covers different breast pumps, and some plans will only process breast pump orders at a certain point in the pregnancy or based on the due date. The maternity product specialists at Pumps For Mom verify moms’ insurance benefits and make it easy for moms to get an Anthem breast pump.

How can I get a breast pump through Anthem?

After ensuring that their plan does cover breast pumps, most moms will need to make an appointment with their obstetrician as many insurance plans require a breast pump prescription to cover the cost. If you have verified your benefits and have your prescription, you’re ready to get started with Pumps For Mom! Our qualification form makes it easy to browse the breast pumps that are usually covered through your plan, and our team will be in touch with you throughout every step of the process. We will do everything we can to make sure your Anthem breast pump is delivered to your door as soon as your insurance allows it, so you can be ready to pump when your little one arrives.

Does Anthem cover replacement parts for breast pumps or other services?

Many Anthem insurance plans cover certain replacement breast pump parts, although precise coverage varies. If you need a different size or replacement breast pump part, talk with your insurance provider to see if the specific component is covered. If your breast pump breaks or malfunctions unexpectedly, you may also reach out to the breast pump manufacturer if the device is under warranty. The manufacturer will often replace or fix the pump for free! In addition to these services, Anthem also offers helpful breastfeeding support services like 24-hour phone lines that connect moms with either a nurse or a breastfeeding expert who can answer any relevant questions.

At Pumps For Mom, we are passionate about helping new and expectant moms find the breast pump through insurance that best meets their needs. With a wide range of breast pump brands, an expert staff of maternity product specialists, and years of experience working with insurance providers, Pumps For Mom makes getting an insurance breast pump easy. Explore our available products and qualify for your breast pump through insurance today!

#1 Order a Breast Pump

Whether you are still on the fence about breastfeeding or you are ready to nurse for the next 24 months, expect some challenges. Having a breast pump on hand is one of the best ways to prepare for the obstacles of breastfeeding. From transitioning back into the workplace after maternity leave to your first few days away from your little one, a breast pump makes breastfeeding flexible. In addition, moms don’t need to break the bank to get their breast pump, thanks to the top brands and models available through insurance. Work with the Pumps For Mom maternity product experts and qualify for your breast pump through insurance today!

#2 Stock Up on Breast Milk Storage

No breast pumping setup is complete without breast milk storage equipment. From bags to bottles, moms need to stock up on breast milk storage if they are going to keep expressed breast milk safe for their little one. Don’t wait to order breast milk storage bags until your little one arrives. By then, you’ll be lucky to find time for a shower, much less online shopping! It’s better to have a few extra breast milk storage bags that you don’t use rather than having a bottle full of expressed breast milk with nowhere for it to go. 

#3 Prepare for Recovery

Pregnancy and delivery take a toll on the body, so be ready to make the most of your recovery with products like postpartum compression garments. These specially engineered medical products are designed to support moms in the areas they need it most in those first few weeks after labor and delivery. With different designs depending on your method of delivery, postpartum compression garments can speed up your recovery so you can get back to doing what matters most–looking after your little one. Pro tip: you may even be able to get a maternity compression product through insurance with no out-of-pocket costs. 

#4 Pack Your Breast Pump Bag

If pregnancy brain had you misplacing everything from your car keys to your cell phone, buckle up for those first few weeks of motherhood. Breastfeeding around the clock and hovering over your newborn day and night leaves very little time for carefully packing a bag before you leave the house. But don’t worry, mama, you were made for this! Prepare for this inevitability by packing your breast pump bag essentials before your little one even arrives, so you are ready to pump on the go during check-ups, family vacations, and everything in between.

We know how stressful pregnancy can feel, but the wait is worth it! At Pumps For Mom, we help new and expectant moms prepare for their breastfeeding journey by checking off some of the most important items on those pregnancy to-do lists. We make it possible to get a compression garment or breast pump through insurance without the hassle. Our maternity product specialists will walk moms through every step of the process, from getting a prescription from your doctor to verifying that your breast pump arrives at your doorstep. Qualify for a breast pump through insurance today with Pumps For Mom!

Basic breast milk storage tips

Before we dive into the specifics of breast milk storage, let’s review the basics. After breast milk is expressed, it must be stored in a sterile and airtight container, such as a breast milk storage bag. Additionally, labeling the expressed breast milk with the date it was pumped is essential to breast milk safety. Whether stored in the fridge or freezer, breast milk only remains safe for consumption within a certain period of time. And as the days of breastfeeding run together, a clear label makes it easier to know when breast milk was expressed and if it is safe for a little one to consume. 

How should I store breast milk in the refrigerator?

When stored in a fridge at 40° F, expressed breast milk is safe to use for up to four days, and placing expressed breast milk in the refrigerator in order of oldest to newest simplifies the feeding process. Organizing breast milk in this way helps you make the most of your liquid gold, and you can clearly see if any breast milk has been in the fridge for longer than four days. If you store breast milk in the fridge for four days and then realize you won’t use it in time, you cannot then store it in the freezer, as it’s possible bacteria has already begun to grow. Better safe than sorry!

How should I store breast milk in the freezer?

Parents who are saving breast milk for the long-haul can use a freezer to store breast milk for up to 12 months. It is best to use frozen breast milk within about six months, but it is acceptable to thaw and use breast milk that has been frozen within 12 months. If you think you might not use the breast milk within four days of pumping, your breast milk will be safest if you can freeze it as soon as possible after a breast pumping session. And double-check to make sure your freezer stays at 0° F or below!

Can I use breast milk that has been at room temperature?

Freshly expressed breast milk can sit out at room temperature, meaning 77° F or cooler, for up to four hours and still be safe to use. For families living in warmer climates where room temperature can climb above 77°, freshly pumped breast milk should be refrigerated or frozen within a few hours. If breast milk sits out for longer than four hours, it’s best to dispose of it, just to be safe. There’s always more where that breast milk came from!

How do I thaw breast milk safely?

As convenient as it is to freeze breast milk and use it for up to a year, parents must safely thaw frozen breast milk before it is fed to a baby. Frozen breast milk should be stored like refrigerated breast milk, in order of oldest to newest, and there are several safe ways to thaw it. Frozen breast milk can be thawed in a refrigerator overnight, in a container of warm or lukewarm water, or by running it under lukewarm water for a few minutes. Most importantly, it is not safe to thaw or heat breast milk in the microwave because this process can destroy the important nutrients in breast milk and form hot spots that can burn a baby’s mouth. After breast milk thaws in the fridge, you should use it within 24 hours, and once frozen breast milk has come to room temperature or been warmed, it should be used within two hours.

Can I reuse breast milk storage bags?

Unfortunately, most breast milk storage bags are not reusable. These products come pre-sterilized, so when they are used once, they cannot be completely sterile again. Reusing a single-use breast pump storage bag increases the risk of breast milk developing bacteria, which then becomes unsafe for babies. Recently, some breast milk storage bags have been made with materials like silicone that make it possible to reuse. However, these products must be clearly labeled as reusable, and parents should carefully follow the instructions to use them safely.

How do I store breast milk safely while traveling?

An insulated cooler bag and ice packs are a mom’s best friend for traveling safely with breast milk. After expressing and sealing breast milk, moms can then store it in a cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours, where it then should be refrigerated or frozen as soon as possible. TSA will even let moms travel with more than 3.4 fluid ounces of breast milk in a carry-on bag, so they can keep their breast milk safe on flights. If you are going to be away from your little one for a while, you can use temperature-controlled shipping options to get your breast milk home. Alternatively, if you have enough breast milk in storage, you can pump and discard your breast milk to keep up your supply until you get back to your little one.

Breastfeeding and pumping is a challenge, and moms shouldn’t watch their hard work go to waste because of storage mistakes that make breast milk unsafe. When parents learn the tips and tricks to breast milk storage, it can be easy to find a routine. Give yourself time to find what works for you, and you’ll be a breast milk storage pro before you know it!

Pumps For Mom is proud to support new and expectant moms as they begin their breastfeeding journey. Our Maternity Products Specialists can help every mom find the best breast pump through insurance that fits her lifestyle and her needs. Qualify through our form and get your insurance breast pump from Pumps For Mom today!

When is the best time to wear maternity compression socks?

Maternity compression socks are one of the most versatile compression garments as they are easily worn on a daily basis at any point during a mom’s pregnancy or recovery. Compression socks improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs and feet, which are some of the most uncomfortable side effects of pregnancy. By promoting blood flow in the lower part of the body, maternity compression socks help moms enjoy relief from tired legs and fatigue during pregnancy and into motherhood. Compression socks can be worn daily depending on what each mom needs and are available in several different sizes and levels of compression, so moms can find the product that works best for them. 

When should I wear a maternity belly band?

A maternity belly band, or a maternity support band, can be worn throughout every stage of pregnancy and is designed to grow with mom as she progresses over the course of these nine months. As the belly expands to support a growing baby, many moms experience pain or discomfort in the back, hips, pelvis, and abdomen. A belly band provides immediate support and relief for these areas of the body that are most likely to be a source of pain for an expectant mom. These gentle compression products are typically made with lightweight, breathable fabric so moms can comfortably wear the belly band as long as they need to. While support bands are typically used during pregnancy, they can provide support and stability during the early weeks of motherhood as well. Like compression socks, a belly band offers moms some versatility to maximize their unique benefits.

How long should I wear a postpartum compression product?

When it comes to postpartum recovery, a compression garment may be the right choice for many moms. A postpartum compression garment can be worn in the first few days after delivery and can help moms recover for several months afterward. Designed to provide targeted compression to the areas of the body most heavily affected by pregnancy and delivery, postpartum recovery garments can be worn up to three or four months after delivery so moms can feel their best in the early weeks of motherhood. Certain recovery garments are even specifically designed to support moms depending on their delivery method–either a natural or cesarean delivery. Postpartum compression products are made to improve stability and relieve discomfort throughout the back, abdomen, and pelvis, so moms can wear their garments as long as they are benefitting from them. 

From reducing swelling in the feet and legs during pregnancy to promoting healing in the abdominal muscles after labor and delivery, maternity compression products can help moms look and feel their best before, during, and after pregnancy. As if the benefits of maternity compression products weren’t enough, moms may even be able to get these products for free through insurance. Take advantage of your coverage with compression products made for moms!

With Pumps For Mom, new and expectant moms can get the products they need to make the most of motherhood! Our experts work with moms throughout every step of the process so it’s easy to get a compression product or breast pump through insurance. Explore our variety of compression products or qualify for a breast pump through insurance today!

Take a break from breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a powerful and unique bonding opportunity for moms and babies, but countless feedings every day can take a physical and emotional toll on new moms. Taking a break from breastfeeding can help moms enjoy a moment to rest, but they don’t have to sacrifice their breast milk during this time. A breast pump can give moms some much-needed freedom when it comes to feedings. New moms can use a breast pump to express breast milk ahead of time and then pass the responsibility of feedings to a partner while moms take a minute for themselves. With Pumps For Mom, new moms can get a free breast pump through insurance so they can enjoy flexibility throughout their breastfeeding journey without breaking the budget.

Rely on your support system

When parenting gets hard, remember you don’t have to do everything on your own. There are some things that only moms can do, but it really does take a village to care for a newborn. Whether you turn to your partner, parents, grandparents, or other members of your support system, don’t be afraid to let the people who love you most take care of your little one while you take time to destress. Accepting help when offered can help you appreciate your time with your newborn and prevent unnecessary frustration.

Get out of the house

Time can cease to exist with a newborn as days and nights run together with repeated feedings, diaper changes, and nap times. Before you know it, you may not have washed your hair, let alone left the house, in days. To fight against cabin fever, moms should try and take a few moments out of the house to gain a whole new perspective on parenthood. Whether it’s a new mom support group, a mommy-and-me exercise class, or even a solo walk around the neighborhood, finding an excuse to get out of the house can give moms a renewed source of energy. 

Find time for yourself

Self-care has become one of the hot topics in parenting today, but taking time for yourself is easier said than done when there’s a newborn in the nursery. However difficult it may be, one of the best ways moms can destress is to remind yourself that they are more than just a new mom–you are still your own person! A five-minute meditation session, a long shower or bath, an exercise class you’ve been wanting to try, or making your favorite meal can help you take care of yourself. Reminding yourself to prioritize self-care is important as you learn how to be a mom. You are still your own person, but now you just have a bundle of joy added into your life!

Being a mom is no easy task. Sleepless nights, unending dirty diapers, and a dishwasher full of bottles can make even the strongest moms crave a break. Give yourself patience as you navigate this new world of motherhood, and remember to take the time you need to destress so you can love your little one best.

Pumps For Mom is passionate about giving moms as much free time as possible so they can love on their little one and look after themselves. We do this with our stress-free qualification form, a variety of breast pump brands, and our expert team, so moms can get their breast pump through insurance quickly and easily. Take some time for yourself, and let the Pumps For Mom team handle your breast pump through insurance.

What kinds of maternity compression products are available?

Designers and manufacturers produce a range of maternity compression garments to help new and expectant moms feel their best. Certain compression products help moms feel more comfortable during pregnancy, like maternity compression socks or belly bands, while others help moms recover after delivery. Designed to reduce swelling and strain, maternity compression garments support a pregnant mom’s changing body. Postpartum compression garments, however, have breathable fabrics and supportive panels that help moms’ bodies recover gradually from the physical challenges of labor and delivery.

Are maternity compression products different from shapewear?

There are several important differences between specially made maternity compression products and typical shapewear. Although both products provide compression, ordinary pieces of shapewear are not specifically for moms. Maternity compression product panels provide optimal support for moms’ changing bodies. They also have breathable fabric to promote comfort and circulation. While maternity compression products are medical products that help moms feel better during pregnancy and improve their recovery after labor and delivery, shapewear is for purely aesthetic alterations to a woman’s body. 

Which compression products are used during pregnancy?

Maternity compression products can be broken up into two broad categories–compression products meant to be used during pregnancy and those meant to support recovery. Some moms assume that a compression product is the last thing they want as their belly continues to grow. However, maternity compression products actually have a significant impact on improving expectant moms’ comfort throughout their pregnancy. Products like compression socks improve blood flow, decrease swelling, and reduce varicose veins. Additionally, garments like belly bands limit the strain on moms’ backs and hips as their pregnancy progresses. 

What is the point of maternity compression socks?

As the body changes throughout pregnancy, moms often experience swelling and aches in their legs. Maternity compression socks help to relieve discomfort and encourage circulation throughout the legs and feet before, during, and after pregnancy. Moms should look for compression socks that offer moderate to firm compression, support in the heels and arches of the feet, and sufficient breathability. Talk with your doctor to learn more about the benefits of maternity compression socks and learn if you can get this compression product through your health insurance.

What is a maternity belly band?

Pregnancy comes with a fair share of aches and pains. A maternity band helps relieve discomfort in the back and hips and improve circulation throughout the body. This product provides gentle compression around the hips to support moms’ growing belly. Additionally, maternity belly bands offer adjustable straps and compression options so moms can use it throughout their pregnancy. Traditional belly bands are not designed with adjustable straps and do not provide the necessary support that moms need during their pregnancy. Maternity belly bands are made with input from medical professionals and solve the problems that most affect expectant moms’ wellbeing. With breathable materials, versatile support, and a discreet design, belly bands can help moms feel their best as they stay active throughout their pregnancy. 

Postpartum compression products are designed for recovery.

Postpartum compression products have a different purpose than maternal compression. During pregnancy, moms’ bodies adapt to provide the best environment for their little ones to grow. However, after labor and delivery, recovery is the number one priority. Postpartum compression garments provide unique support depending on delivery method. Additionally, these products are often covered by insurance so moms don’t have to cover the cost themselves. Moms need postpartum compression products to improve their recovery after the physical challenges of labor and delivery.

Postpartum recovery garments for natural deliveries

Vaginal births require weeks of recovery time for new moms. Vaginal deliveries can result in abdominal muscle strain, perineal tears, or episiotomy incisions. Postpartum recovery garments designed for natural deliveries provide support to help the abdominal muscles recover and protect the pelvic area to promote healing. With seamless support panels and breathable materials to maximize comfort, moms recover more quickly and look good doing it with postpartum compression garments for natural deliveries.

Postpartum recovery garments for C-sections

While C-sections are a common operation, this procedure is a major surgery and requires several weeks of recovery time. Like compression products for natural births, postpartum recovery garments for C-sections also provide abdominal, hip, and back support. These garments also include specific protections for the C-section incision, and many recovery garments for C-sections have a side zipper so moms can take the garment on and off without irritating their scar. Compression garments for C-sections promote a smoother recovery after the physical challenges of pregnancy, labor, and invasive surgery.

Shapewear options for post-recovery

For moms who have made it through that initial postpartum recovery period, it’s time for a post-pregnancy body shaper! Even after the first several weeks of recovery, moms may avoid old pieces of shapewear that they wore before pregnancy. Postpartum shapewear targets areas more significantly impacted by pregnancy, like the hips, buttocks, or thighs. Insurance doesn’t usually cover these products as they do not serve the same medical recovery purpose as postpartum compression garments. Post-pregnancy shapewear provides continued support.

There is no need to struggle through your pregnancy or your postpartum recovery. There are compression products that help you take on motherhood like a boss. Spend less time struggling with aches and pains and more time with your little one with help from maternity compression products.

Pumps For Mom does more than provide top-of-the-line insurance breast pumps to new and expectant moms. Through our partnership with Body After Baby, we also help moms with maternity compression products. The experts at Pumps For Mom are here to lighten your load. Whether you need a breast pump through insurance or want to stock up on maternity compression garments, Pumps For Mom is here for you.