Breastfeeding Tips and Resources
Know your rights with insurance
Obtaining A Breast Pump:
If you are looking to obtain a breast pump at free or reduced cost consider exploring options through your insurance. Your benefits may cover you to rent or buy a breast pump. Each insurance plan has specific criteria on which breast pumps they cover such as electric or manual. https://thebreastfeedingshop.com/areas-we-serve/chicago/
Prenatal Resources:
If you are an Illinois resident enrolled in WIC your plan includes breastfeeding education, lactation consultation, and breast pump supplies. Get Support from WIC | WIC Breastfeeding Support (usda.gov)
Post Partum Resources:
The Moms and Babies program of Medicaid now provides coverage for pregnant woman and their babies up to 12 months after delivery. Eligible people receive coverage for inpatient and outpatient hospital services [HFS Illinois]. Moms and Babies | HFS (illinois.gov)
General Resources:
Findhelp.org allows you to locate free or reduced cost care in your area. The website includes resources for finding affordable health care, food, housing, legal, and educational resources.
Know your rights at work
Pumping at Work:
The Fair Labor Standards Act in the ACA requires employers to provide pumping mothers with break time and a space to pump. The PUMP act signed into law December 2022 require employers to provide a non-bathroom space and break down to employees who wish to pump.
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act is meant to protect pregnant people’s right to have reasonable accommodations in the work place. It also meant to protect pregnant and postpartum people from discrimination in the workplace.
Additional resources
Visit our Resources page here.
CDPH programs for maternal and child health Family & Community Health (chicago.gov); healthy start Chicago, faith based groups, and Chicago Family Health Center, hear here campaign CDC, national association of professional peer lactation supporters of color (NAPPLSC); indigenous breastfeeding counselor certification (IBCC)