How Expecting Mothers Can Get Free or Discounted Breast Pumps

Babies are expensive, and while we would like to think of breastfeeding as the affordable way to feed them, it comes with its own set of costs, including a breast pump. But here’s the good news: thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), you’re likely entitled to a free or heavily discounted breast pump through your insurance.

Breastfeeding is hard enough without adding unnecessary expenses. If your insurance is willing to cough up some cash for a pump, take it. Of course, because nothing in life is truly “free,” there’s some red tape to navigate. So, let’s cut through some of it and get you that pump without wasting your time or money.

In this article:

Getting a Free Breast Pump in 2025 Thanks to the Affordable Care Act

The Problem With Getting a Free Breast Pump With Medicaid

How to Get Your Free (or Almost Free) Breast Pump

Picking the Right Breast Pump

Follow Up & Stay on Top of It

Pro Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

Getting a Free Breast Pump in 2025 Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA)

The ACA requires most insurance plans to cover breastfeeding support and supplies, including breast pumps. But here’s the catch: every insurance provider has their own process, restrictions, and “preferred” suppliers. Some plans will cover top-tier pumps, others will only fork over the cash for a basic model that barely works. That’s why you need to understand exactly what your policy covers before you start shopping.

The Problem With Getting a Free Breast Pump With Medicaid

However, Medicaid? That’s a whole different beast. Some state Medicaid plans play nice and cover a free breast pump, but others? Not so much. Medicaid coverage for pre and postnatal care is a patchwork mess, with each state making up its own rules.

Instead of just covering pumps for all moms (like they should), some Medicaid plans only approve them if there’s a so-called "medical necessity." That means unless your baby is stuck in the NICU, you’ve got inverted nipples, or some other condition they deem worthy, you might be out of luck.

A few states will cover a pump if you’re separated from your baby for long stretches—like if you’re back at work or school. But don’t expect them to take your word for it. You’ll need a prescription and proof of your work or class schedule because, apparently, just being a mom who needs to feed her kid isn’t reason enough.

How to Get Your Free (or Almost Free) Breast Pump

1. Call Your Insurance Provider

Yes, you’ll probably sit through an eternity of hold music, but this is step one. Call the number on your insurance card and ask about your breast pump benefits. Key questions to ask:

• What models are covered?

• Can I choose my own supplier, or do I have to use an approved list?

• Do I need a prescription?

• What’s the reimbursement limit if I buy my own?

Some insurance plans only cover the basic models, but if you have a reimbursement limit, you might be able to put it toward a higher-end pump.

For example, my insurance plan (BCBS) covered up to $250, and I could buy my pump anywhere (yes, even Amazon) and submit my receipt. I bought the Medela Swing Maxi, and thanks to these baby registry hacks, I got 15% off. So, do some research and see how you can game the system to get the best deal.

Some plans, though, will make you go through a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier, which means more paperwork and delays.

2. Get a Prescription

If your insurance requires a prescription, get one from your OB-GYN, midwife, or even your pediatrician. (Yes, some insurers are weird like that.) Don’t wait until after birth—get this sorted during pregnancy so you’re not scrambling postpartum.

3. Choose a Supplier (If Required)

Some insurance companies require you to use their “approved” DME suppliers. If that’s the case, they’ll give you a list, and you’ll need to submit your prescription and insurance info to one of them. The supplier then deals with the insurance paperwork and ships your pump. Just be aware that some suppliers have long wait times or limited stock.

If your plan is more flexible (like mine was), you can just buy your pump from wherever you want, submit your receipt, and get reimbursed.

Picking the Right Breast Pump

Not all breast pumps are created equal, and the last thing you want is to be stuck with one that’s a pain to use.

Manual Breast Pumps

Honestly, manual pumps are fine in a pinch, but if you’re planning to pump regularly, save yourself the frustration and get an electric pump.

• Pros: Cheap, portable, quiet, no need for electricity

• Cons: Requires a lot of hand strength, time-consuming, not ideal for exclusive pumping

• Average Cost: $15 - $50

• Best For: Occasional pumping, emergencies, or if you just need a backup pump

Single Electric Breast Pumps

These are a middle-ground option, but if you’re going to be pumping a lot, a double electric will save you so much time and effort.

• Pros: Faster than a manual pump, more affordable than a double electric, portable

• Cons: Only pumps one breast at a time (so it takes twice as long), may not be efficient for exclusive pumping

• Average Cost: $50 - $150

• Best For: Moms who pump occasionally but don’t need to do it multiple times a day

Double Electric Breast Pumps

These are the gold standard for pumping moms. If your insurance covers one, get it—it’s worth it.

• Pros: Pumps both breasts at once (time-saver!), more efficient, great for regular pumping

• Cons: Bulkier, requires an outlet or rechargeable battery

• Average Cost: $100 - $350 (some high-end models go higher)

• Best For: Working moms, exclusive pumpers, or anyone who wants efficiency

Wearable Breast Pumps (Hands-Free, Cordless)

Wearable pumps like the Elvie or Willow are a game-changer, but they’re pricey. Some insurance plans cover them partially, so check your benefits if you’re eyeing one.

• Pros: Ultimate convenience, fully hands-free, great for multitasking

• Cons: Expensive, may not have as strong suction as traditional pumps, some models have shorter battery life

• Average Cost: $200 - $500

• Best For: Busy moms, working moms, or anyone who wants to pump discreetly

Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps

These are the powerhouse pumps. If you have a medical necessity (like a NICU baby or supply challenges), you may be able to get one through insurance.

• Pros: Super powerful suction, best for exclusive pumping or medical needs

• Cons: Expensive, bulky, usually rented rather than purchased

• Average Cost: $1,000+ to buy; $50 - $100/month to rent

• Best For: Moms with supply issues, preemies in the NICU, or exclusive pumping

Follow Up & Stay on Top of It

Once you’ve submitted everything, don’t assume it’s done. Follow up. Call, email, harass them if needed. Insurance companies love to “lose” paperwork. Make sure your pump is approved and on its way well before your due date. You do NOT want to be dealing with this nonsense while running on two hours of sleep with a newborn attached to you 24/7.

While you’re thinking about it, here is a list of what new parents need for the first month.

Pro Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

Start Early: The last thing you want is to be arguing with your insurance company while recovering from childbirth. Get this done in your second or third trimester.

Keep Receipts & Emails: Screenshot everything. Keep records of phone calls, who you spoke with, and what they said. If they try to deny your claim, you’ll be ready.

Consider Extra Support: If breastfeeding is part of your plan, check if your insurance covers lactation consultants. They can be a lifesaver, especially if things aren’t going smoothly in the beginning. For instance, they can offer suggestions on how to increase your breast milk supply.