Breast Pumps

Breast pumps and Lactation Help: 

While you're in the hospital, we’ll give you the support and tools you need to breastfeed. That includes a breast pump if you need one. No need to bring your own pump to the hospital.

Getting a Breast Pump for Home:

Most health insurance plans cover a personal breast pump through the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Here’s what to do:

•  Call your health insurance to ask what kind of pump they cover and how to get it.
• It’s best to do this around 32–34 weeks of pregnancy, so you have your pump at home before your baby is born.

Your provider can write a prescription and/or referral verifying your medical need for a breast pump. Click here for more.  

How to Get Your Breast Pump: 3 Simple General Steps

1. Call your insurance company
   • Ask them how to get a breast pump. They will usually tell you which medical supply company (called a DME company or vendor) you can order it from.
2. Get a prescription from your doctor
   • Some insurance plans need a prescription, and some don’t. If yours does, your doctor can send the order. (Note: this doesn’t mean the pump has been ordered yet—it just gives you what you need to do it.)

3. Order your pump from the approved DME company 

   • Once you know which company to use and have the prescription (if needed), you can place your order

   It may take a few days to 2 weeks for your pump to be approved and shipped, so it’s a good idea to start early!

How Do I Know Which Breast Pump to Get?

There are lots of different types and brands of breast pumps out there—it can be hard to know which one to pick!

To help you choose the pump that’s best for you, we recommend:

• Taking a breastfeeding class
• Scheduling a prenatal visit with the UCLA Lactation Clinic

This is a great time to ask questions and talk about any concerns you have about breastfeeding or using a breast pump.

View more information on hospital grade breasts pumps