New parents have a lot to focus on. Learn how you can get a breast pump with your insurance to check an important box off your preparation list.
A breast pump is a tool that helps new moms remove and collect breastmilk for future use by mimicking the sucking action of a baby or toddler.
They are useful, and sometimes essential, for:
- Moms who need to be away, such as during work hours or traveling
- Helping babies who have trouble latching so they can still get breast milk
- Making sure babies have a steady supply of breast milk
An electric pump plugs into a power outlet or runs on battery power and is available in single or double options. Many moms appreciate its speed, efficiency, and the ability to pump hands-free.
A manual breast pump relies on a hand-operated lever or pump. This can be a preferable option if you're seeking a lightweight, portable, and budget-friendly device. They can be used on one breast at a time.
Hospital-grade breast pumps are not typically covered by insurance. This type of pump has a more powerful motor and is designed to help boost your milk supply in cases when your baby is premature and/or has to stay in the NICU.
Many health plans – including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) plans – cover breast pumps in your third trimester or after delivery. When ordered through insurance, essential supplies like tubing, breast shields, and collection bottles are included. Replacement parts are also covered by some plans.1
There are certain supplies associated with breast pumps that insurance doesn't cover, such as creams and balms, nursing bras, and milk storage bags and coolers.
Check which pumps and suppliers are covered by your plan.
Some plans require a prescription from your OB/GYN or midwife.
Place your order through an approved in-network supplier.
For many families, breastfeeding comes with a unique set of challenges, but you don't have to navigate them alone. Insurance companies like Blue Cross NC offer breastfeeding support and counseling for soon-to-be moms and new mothers. Using an in-network doctor gives you access to comprehensive lactation support and counseling by a trained provider at no cost to you.
Search our database to find a covered lactation consultant in your area, and consult your insurance provider to see how many visits are covered.
Get reliable answers to your insurance questions, such as how to get prior authorization and submitting a claim.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in its health programs and activities. Learn more about our non-discrimination policy and no-cost services available to you.
Information in other languages: Español 中文 Tiếng Việt 한국어 Français العَرَبِيَّة Hmoob ру́сский Tagalog ગુજરાતી ភាសាខ្មែរ Deutsch हिन्दी ລາວ 日本語
© 2026 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. ®, SM Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. All other marks and names are property of their respective owners. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.