premium breast pump and insurance

Should I upgrade to a premium breast pump like Elvie or Spectra S1?

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all new moms are entitled to a breast pump. According to Healthcare.Gov:

Health insurance plans must provide breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding. These services may be provided before and after birth… Your health insurance plan must cover the cost of a breast pump.

However, which breast pumps your plan will cover may vary, as noted below from the same site:

It may be either a rental unit or a new one you’ll keep. Your plan may have guidelines on whether the covered pump is manual or electric, the length of the rental, and when you’ll receive it (before or after birth).

Most plans will cover the cost of a double-electric breast pump, and many breast pump manufacturers offer qualifying pumps, including Medela, Ameda, and Spectra. On the other hand, many premium pumps are not covered fully by healthcare, though you can purchase them at a fraction of the cost using your healthcare credit.

What are the benefits of premium pumps?

For many moms, a standard double-electric pump will do the job. They may not be as convenient for moms who are on the go, however. Premium pumps often offer features that make pumping easier and more comfortable, for example, wearable hubs, wireless motors, and even smart technology. Take a look at some of these premium pumps to get a better understanding of what your upgrade means in terms of added benefits.

Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump

Dubbed “the world’s first silent wearable breast pump,” the Elvie Pump eliminates cleaning tubes and charging wires. The hubs fit in your bra and are controllable by a remote, giving you complete freedom to pump and go.

Note: While the Elvie Pump is considered a premium pump, the Elvie Stride offers many of the same perks while also being covered by most health plans.

Spectra S1 Double Electric Hospital Strength Breast Pump

The silent, portable Spectra S1 Hospital Grade Double Electric Breast Pump offers 300mmHg suction, double pumping, and a massage mode to encourage speedy letdown. You can adjust both suction strength and cycle speed, and the pump even comes with a night light and timer.

BabyBuddha® Complete Kit

Another ground-breaking pump, the BabyBuddha maximizes freedom while minimizing hassle. You simply hang the compact pump around your neck using the lanyard for a totally hands-free pumping experience. It’s quiet, discreet, and comes with extra-soft cushions to prevent nipple soreness.

Your breast pump options are as unique as you.

Choosing the best breast pump for your situation ensures more successful pumping sessions. You’ll be more comfortable and more equipped to handle all of your other responsibilities if you have a pump suited to your lifestyle. In some cases, a standard double-electric pump will do. In others, investing in an upgrade can save time, money, and frustration down the line.

If you’re not sure which breast pump is right for you, get in touch with your friends at Milk N Mamas Baby for expert and compassionate guidance.