Does Insurance Cover Lactation Support?

Navigating insurance coverage can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re also preparing for a new baby. The good news? Most families have more coverage than they realize. 

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires most private and employer-sponsored health insurance plans to cover breastfeeding support and counseling at no cost to you — meaning no copay, no deductible, and no cost-sharing.

Here’s what your insurance may cover for lactation counseling, breastfeeding support, and your breast pump: 

• Prenatal lactation education visits
• Postpartum lactation consultations
• Infant feeding support — guidance on breastfeeding, formula feeding, combination feeding, pumping, and return-to-work plans
• In-Home or Virtual lactation support visits with an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant)
• Breast pump equipment
• Breastfeeding supplies 

(Call the member services number on your insurance card and ask):

- Does my plan cover IBCLC services?

- Are out-of-network providers covered?

- Do I need a referral or prior authorization?