Tag: Breastfeeding

Can you get a free breast pump through Medicaid?

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Can you get a free breast pump through Medicaid?

February 13, 2024

Sometimes determining if your Medicaid will cover a breast pump can seem confusing. Simple question, right? But the answer isn’t necessarily as easy.

Let Edwards Health Care Services help you determine your benefits and eligibility.

breast pumps through medicaid, Can you get a free breast pump through Medicaid?

One easy way to find out is by completing our online application. EHCS will research your Medicaid plan and work with them to confirm your benefits and determine which breast pumps you’re eligible for.

One might assume it’s a straightforward matter, but the reality is more nuanced. According to the Health Insurance Association of America, Medicaid is basically a government-sponsored insurance program for folks of any age who don’t have enough resources and income to cover their healthcare costs. Under the Affordable Care Act, you can qualify for Medicaid if you make less than 133 percent of the federal poverty line. Currently nearly 70 million people (or 1 in 5 Americans) are enrolled in a Medicaid plan or Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Because plans are run by their states, eligibility and offerings differ across the United States. What you’re eligible for in Maine may not be the same as in Arizona. It may be confusing, but EHCS can help clarify things! We work closely with government and private insurance plans to provide covered medical supplies — including breast pumps — to eligible members.

We carry name-brand pumps!

APPLY ONLINE

Below is a sampling of the breast pumps that may be covered by a Medicaid plan. Please reach out to our breast pump team if you have questions about your eligibility or a specific pump. You may also apply online to get the process started.

Medicaid programs are funded by state and federal dollars, but states manage their own programs, which is partly why it’s hard to say, “yes, Medicaid covers breast pumps.” Another issue is that some states used managed care organizations (MCOs) to administrate their Medicaid programs, and each of those has its own rules.

The good news is that many state and managed Medicaid programs cover breast pumps, and your local WIC (Women, Infants and Children) office will be a great help in breastfeeding successfully.

So defining Medicaid isn’t simple, but finding out if you’re covered is. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) is in network with more than 40 state Medicaid programs (including plans in Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois, Virginia, South Carolina, Indiana, and more) throughout the United States, and they each have different guidelines.

Typically, Medicaid programs will not cover the breast pump until the baby is born, but we can help you get the process started so all you have to do is let us know when the baby arrives! We will handle the paperwork between Medicaid and your doctor’s office (a prescription for a breast pump is required), while you focus on getting ready for your new baby!

Find Out If Your Medicaid Covers Breast Pumps ?

We carry several Medicaid-approved, double-electric breast pumps, and we’re happy to talk with you about which pumps meet your eligibility requirements and needs. Email us here or apply for a breast pump now!

ameda breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

medela breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

ardo breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

spectra breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

lansinoh breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

Zomee Breast Pumps, medicaid breast pumps

Get a breast pump through Medicaid

APPLY ONLINE

Tags: , , ,

Related Articles

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

September 20, 2023

You’ve gone to the trouble of pumping breast milk so don’t waste that liquid gold. Learn more about breast milk storage to ensure you’re serving up safe pumped breast milk.

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines, breast milk bags, breast milk storage bags
https://myehcs.com/wp-content/uploads/BM-Storage-Bags-Lifestyle02-scaled.jpg

Welcome, new moms and seasoned pros alike, to a topic that’s as precious as it is practical: storing pumped breast milk. If you’re a breastfeeding mom, you already know the incredible benefits of breast milk for your baby’s health and development. And if you’re navigating the world of breast pumping, you’re likely finding that your “liquid gold” can sometimes feel more like a science experiment.

Fear not! We’re here to simplify the process and help you make sure that every precious drop of your breast milk is safely stored and ready to nourish your little one whenever they need it. Whether you’re pumping to build a freezer stash, preparing for a return to work, or just looking for some handy storage tips, we’ve got you covered.

Using stored breast milk might seem like a straightforward task, but there are some guidelines that can make the process clearer. Whether you’re planning a night out, heading back to work, or just want to let someone else share in the joy of feeding your little one, we’ve got your back.

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

Freshly pumped milk
Room temperature: up to 4 hours
Refrigerator: up to 4 days
Freezer: 6-12 months

Thawed, previously frozen
Room temperature: up to 2 hours
Refrigerator: up to 24 hours
Freezer: never refreeze breast milk after it’s been thawed

Left over from a feeding (meaning your baby did not finish bottle)
Room temperature: use within 2 hours after baby has finished eating
Refrigerator: use within 2 hours after baby has finished eating
Freezer: do not freeze

Have more questions? Listen to our FREE podcast!

LISTEN NOW

Ready to use that breast milk? Take note of these general guidelines to ensure that your baby’s milk is served up properly!

Thawing frozen breast milk for immediate use

Warm the milk by running warm water over the bag or bottle and use it within the next 24 hours.

Warming refrigerated breast milk

Warm the milk by running warm water over the bag or bottle until it’s at room temperature.

Note: Never thaw or heat breast milk in the microwave.


Buy Milk Storage Bags Online

Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags
Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags (100-count)
No one knows dedication like a pumping mom. Protect every hard-earned ounce with Lansinoh® super strong breast milk storage bags. Safely freeze and store your…
Laninsoh Milk Storage Bags
Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags (25-count)
No one knows dedication like a pumping mom. Protect every hard-earned ounce with Lansinoh® super strong breast milk storage bags. Safely freeze and store your…
25-count Medela breast milk storage bags
25-Count Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags
Store, transport, and warm breast milk in these convenient, ready-to-use breast milk storage bags. They can also be used safely as freezing bags for breast…
Medela breast milk storage bags, Medela 100-count breast milk storage bags
Medela 100-Count Breast Milk Storage Bags
Store, transport, and warm breast milk in these convenient, ready-to-use breast milk storage bags. They can also be used safely as freezing bags for breast…

The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Proper Storage and Preparation of Breast Milk


Tags: , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Latching & Positioning Issues

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Podcast: Latching & Positioning Issues


Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Baby Care, Month 3

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Podcast: Baby Care, Month 3


Tags: , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Baby Care, Month 2

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Podcast: Baby Care, Month 2


Tags: , , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Baby Care, Month 1

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Podcast: Baby Care, Month 1


Tags: , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Mom Care, Month 3

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Podcast: Mom Care, Month 3


Tags: , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Mom Care, Month 2

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Podcast: Mom Care, Month 2


Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Newborn Feeding & Hunger Cues

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


HOW TO TELL WHEN YOUR BABY IS HUNGRY OR FULL?

From birth to 6 months old, your infant will progress through a series of signs showing that he or she is hungry. The typical progression is:

  1. Infant will begin smacking lips, clucking tongue, and opening closing his/her mouth in a sucking motion (even during sleep).
  2. Infant will root – turning head toward caregiver and opening/closing mouth in a sucking motion.
  3. Infant will begin bringing hands to mouth.
  4. Infant will clench hands into fists and increase sucking on hands.
  5. Infant will begin to show lines of stress in his or her face.
  6. Infant will begin to cry.

It is important to note that crying is often a late sign of hunger. Look for signs 1-5 to better anticipate your baby’s needs and begin feeding when he or she is still calm.

 

FULLNESS CUES: BIRTH – 6 MONTHS

As your baby becomes full, you will notice the following signs:

  1. The lines in baby’s face will begin to smooth out.
  2. Hand that were tightly fisted and up near the cheeks will begin to slowly open. Arms will relax and drop to the sides.
  3. Baby will no longer maintain a tight seal at breast or on the bottle, and milk will begin to leak at the corners of the mouth.
  4. Baby will turn away from the feeding and refuse to re-latch onto your breast or the bottle.

It is important to note that if your baby has fallen asleep but still exhibits lines on the face or fisted hands, he/she is not yet full and will wake up shortly to re-feed. Take time to burp your baby, change his/her diaper and gently arouse him/her to complete the feeding. This will result in a more successful feeding and better rested baby and mom!

 

Want to learn more, listen to our podcast below!


Tags: , , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: Common Breastfeeding Issues

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


BREASTFEEDING ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS

In beginning stages of breastfeeding, there are a few issues that may arise including:

  • Sore nipples: In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.
  • Clogged ducts: This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common, can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

  • Engorgement: This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

  • Mastitis: Mastitis is a breast infection that typically presents itself as a painful, hard, red area on the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It can also often follow engorgement. Cracked nipples may increase your risk, as broken skin allows germs to penetrate the breast and can lead to infection of the breast tissue. Seek medical treatment from your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of mastitis.

  • Leaking: Leaking may occur when your breasts are too full or when you are nursing on one side.

  • Thrush: Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus, and symptoms can include:• Itchy or burning nipples that appear fiery red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters• Cracked nipples• Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings• Intense nipple or breast pain that does not improve with better latch-on and/or positioning

  • Biting: Babies may bite at the breast for several reasons including boredom, teething, wanting attention, or wanting more milk (if supply is changing).

  • Falling asleep at the breast: If your baby is struggling to nurse effectively and falling asleep at the breast, it may be because they tire easily from sucking ineffectively or they quit in frustration and go to sleep because they are not getting the milk they want. If this is occurring, your baby may not be gaining appropriate weight and your milk supply may suffer.

  • Forceful letdown: This can be a sign of waiting too long between feedings. The more milk that is stored in the breast, the more pressure there is, making letdown more forceful.

Listen to the podcast below to hear more about these topics and helpful solutions for each.  


Tags: , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Podcast: How Much Should My Baby Be Eating?

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


HOW MUCH DOES MY BABY NEED TO EAT?

You may see different recommendations based on whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed your baby. The most important thing to remember, whether you breastfeed or formula feed, is that your baby’s feeding needs are unique. Babies are humans, not clocks. No book or website can tell you exactly how much and how often your baby needs to be fed.

  • First few days: Your baby may want to eat as often as every 1- 3 hours. Frequent feeding helps increase your milk supply gives your baby breastfeeding practice. As your baby grows, his/her belly also grows, allowing him/her to drink more breast milk during each feeding. Babies might only take in a half ounce per feeding for the first day or two, but after that will usually drink 1- 2 ounces per feeding.
  • After the first few days: Your formula-fed newborn will take about 2- 3 ounces of formula per feeding and will eat every 3-4 hours on average. Newborn babies should breastfeed and or bottle feed on demand; as time passes and you learn your child’s needs, you can start begin routine-based feedings.
  • Two months old: Babies usually take 4- 5 oz. per feeding every 3- 4 hours.
  • Four months old: Babies usually take 4- 6 oz. per feeding.
  • Six months old: He/she will consume about 6- 8 oz. at each feeding totaling 4-5 feedings per day. Baby should drink no more than 32 oz. of formula in 24 hours. Some babies may just want to suck on a pacifier after feeding. A pacifier should never be used to replace a feeding.

As a rule of thumb, most babies will increase the amount of formula they drink by an average of 1 oz. each month before leveling off at about 7- 8 oz. per feeding. Solid food should be started at about 6 months old. Intake may vary slightly from day-to-day to meet baby’s specific needs. Instead of going by fixed amounts, listen to your baby’s hunger and satiety queues.

Breastfed babies may take smaller, more frequent feedings than formula-fed infants. If you are breastfeeding, pay close attention to your baby’s hunger queues and feed on demand as needed ― usually about every 2 hours or 8-12 times in a 24-hour span. Breastfed infants do not eat on a schedule. It is okay if your baby eats every 2- 3 hours for several hours, then sleeps for 3- 4 hours. Feedings may take about 15- 20 minutes on each breast. Watch for weight gain and dirty diapers to help determine if baby is getting enough to eat.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST BELOW TO LEARN MORE


Tags: , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Breastfeeding Troubleshooting

Contact Us: 1.888.344.3434

Home          Available Breast Pumps          Support for Moms          FAQs          Why Choose EHCS          Store         


Sore nipples

In the first three to five days after birth, if you experience nipple soreness beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, it may be a sign that something isn’t right with baby’s latch, position, or suck. Working on improving baby’s latch or position should resolve much of the pain related to sore nipples.

HOW TO HELP
Aside from correcting any issues with the latch or positioning, try the following tips:
• Vary nursing positions by trying the cradle hold, cross cradle hold, football (clutch) hold, and lying down. This helps to vary the baby’s position on the nipple over the course of the day.
• Begin the feeding on the least sore side until the letdown occurs, then gently switch baby to the other breast.
• Express a little milk or colostrum onto your nipples after nursing or use a nipple cream to help keep your nipples from becoming dry and/or cracked.
• Let your nipples air dry.
• Apply a cool compress to dry nipples after feeding.
• If your nipples are very sore, place breast shields inside your bra to prevent contact between clothes and nipples.
• If nipple pain worsens after the first days of breastfeeding, it could be due to other causes like thrush, bacterial infection, or tongue-tie.

Clogged ducts

This feels like a firm, sore lump in the breast, and may be reddened and warm to the touch. This is common and can be caused by anything from missing feedings to wearing a bra that is too tight.

HOW TO HELP

Prior to a feeding, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the blocked area toward the nipple during nursing or pumping. Begin nursing or pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. You can also try a warm soak in the bath or shower along with massaging the plugged duct while soaking.

Engorgement

This is a common issue new mothers experience. The symptoms may include tender or hard breasts, swelling, reddened areas, and flattened nipples from breast stretching. It may be more difficult for baby to latch if you are engorged. To help prevent engorgement, feed or pump often (usually at least 8-10 times in a 24-hour period) with a proper latch. You may need to express milk from your breasts after feeding if baby has not completely relieved the fullness.

HOW TO HELP

Discomfort may subside in as little as 24 – 48 hours by trying the following:
• Continue to breastfeed or pump frequently to relieve fullness.
• If baby is having difficulty latching properly due to the fullness, hand express or pump some milk until the areola has softened enough for baby to latch.
• Applying a warm, wet compress and massaging breasts for approximately 10 minutes before a feeding can help with milk flow, while applying a cold compress for 15 minutes each hour between feedings can help with pain and swelling.
• Rest, rest, and more rest!

Have more questions? Listen to our FREE podcast!

LISTEN NOW

Mastitis

Mastitis is a breast infection that typically presents itself as a painful, hard, red area on the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It can also often follow engorgement. Cracked nipples may increase your risk, as broken skin allows germs to penetrate the breast and can lead to infection of the breast tissue. Seek medical treatment from your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of mastitis.

HOW TO HELP

In addition to treatment from your healthcare provider, it is recommended to:
• Heat, rest, and empty breast.
• Use a warm compress before a feeding.
• Get extra rest.
• Continue pumping or breastfeeding; emptying the breast reduces inflammation. If this hurts, detach baby and try again.

Thrush

Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus, and symptoms can include:
• Itchy or burning nipples that appear fiery red, shiny, flaky, and/or have a rash with tiny blisters
• Cracked nipples
• Shooting pains in the breast during or after feedings
• Intense nipple or breast pain that does not improve with better latch-on and/or positioning

HOW TO HELP

It is important to see your healthcare provider for treatment, and it is necessary for both you and your baby to be treated since it is contagious and spreads easily. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as your baby’s mouth. A baby may also have yeast rashes in the diaper area.

Forceful letdown

This can be a sign of waiting too long between feedings. The more milk that is stored in the breast, the more pressure there is, making letdown more forceful.

HOW TO HELP

To manage a forceful letdown, you can press on the breast near the nipple just before latching your baby, and spray the initial streams into a cloth, bottle, cup, etc. Trying different positions such as laid back or side lying may also help slow things down.


The information contained here within is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned here within. Reliance on any information provided by EHCS, EHCS employees, contracted writers, or medical professionals presenting content for publication here within is solely at your own risk.

Sources:
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/153/managing-blocked-milk-ducts-and-treating-mastitis
• http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/88/comfort-for-mom:-treating-engorged-breasts
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/positioning/
• https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/hw103462
• https://americanpregnancy.org/breastfeeding/nipple-pain-remedies/
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/thrush/
• https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Falling-Asleep-at-the-Breast-Bottle.aspx
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/falling-asleep-at-the-breast/
• https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/141/4-reasons-babies-bite-while-breastfeeding
• https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/biting/
• https://www.todaysparent.com/baby/breastfeeding/how-to-handle-oversupply-and-overactive-letdown/


Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Related Articles

Your Cart