What Is Lactation Support?
Lactation support refers to the guidance, resources, and professional care that help parents establish and maintain a healthy breastfeeding relationship. This includes everything from learning proper latch techniques to troubleshooting common concerns such as low milk supply or nipple pain. At Ameda, we believe that every family deserves access to expert lactation support to ensure a positive breastfeeding experience.
Why Lactation Support Matters
Many new moms and new parents benefit greatly from timely, professional breastfeeding support. Studies show that having the right lactation support Resources can improve breastfeeding success rates and help parents feel more confident along their journey. That’s why Ameda partners with trusted providers, including lactation consultants, to make sure you receive the expertise you need—exactly when you need it.
What Is a Lactation Consultant?
A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional who specializes in breastfeeding support and guidance. These experts are trained to help new mothers overcome common breastfeeding challenges and provide personalized advice on various aspects of breastfeeding. Whether you are dealing with latch issues, managing milk supply, or simply seeking reassurance, a lactation consultant can offer the support you need.
Lactation consultants can be an invaluable resource at any stage of your breastfeeding journey. You can consult with them during pregnancy to prepare for breastfeeding, immediately after birth to establish a good latch, or several months into breastfeeding to address any ongoing concerns. Their services include breastfeeding education, hands-on assistance with latch and positioning, and strategies to boost milk supply. By working with a lactation consultant, you can gain confidence and ensure a positive breastfeeding experience.
Understanding Your Breastfeeding Benefits
The Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most health insurance plans are required to cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and free or reduced-cost breast pumps for the duration of breastfeeding. This includes both Marketplace plans and other health insurance plans, although some grandfathered plans may not offer the same coverage. Knowing that these services are often covered by your healthcare provider can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs and make it easier to access high-quality Lactation Support. Learn more about getting a breast pump through insurance here.
Our Lactation Support Resources
International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs)
IBCLCs are the gold standard in lactation care, having completed extensive education and clinical training in breastfeeding management. Whether you need an in-home visit, an in-office appointment, or a virtual consultation via telehealth, lactation consultants can offer personalized strategies tailored to your needs.
Ameda Trusted Providers
The Nest
The Nest offers personalized breastfeeding support tailored to meet specific breastfeeding needs through a network of lactation consultants, providing in-home, in-office, and online consultations. They simplify the process for new parents by handling insurance billing and making expert lactation care accessible and stress-free. Friendly and knowledgeable, The Nest’s lactation consultants guide parents step-by-step through latch techniques, pumping schedules, and more.
The NestThe Lactation Network
The Lactation Network (TLN) connects parents with insurance-covered lactation support resources. With a nationwide directory of lactation consultants, TLN offers in-home, in-office, and telehealth consultations while managing insurance claims and answering breastfeeding questions. Their streamlined process ensures easy scheduling and maximized coverage benefits, helping parents avoid hidden surprises or unexpected costs.
TLNAccessing Your Lactation Support
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1
Choose Your Provider
Select either The Nest or The Lactation Network based on your preference.
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2
Verify Coverage
Provide your insurance information so the provider can confirm your benefits.
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3
Book Your Appointment
Schedule the type of consultation that best suits your needs—in-home, in-office, or telehealth.
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4
Prepare for Your Session
Note any specific questions or concerns you have in advance so you can discuss them during your appointment.
Verification & Billing Process
After you’ve submitted your insurance details, your chosen provider will confirm your coverage and let you know about any copays or out-of-pocket expenses. If your insurance plan is grandfathered or lacks breastfeeding support coverage, you can still work with The Nest or The Lactation Network on a self-pay or cash-pay basis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if My Plan Is Grandfathered?
What if My Plan Is Grandfathered?
If your insurance plan does not cover lactation services under the ACA, contact The Nest or The Lactation Network to discuss self-pay options. Some providers offer discounted rates or sliding scale fees for parents paying out of pocket.
What Should I Expect During a Lactation Consultation?
What Should I Expect During a Lactation Consultation?
During a typical consultation, a lactation consultant will assess your baby’s latch, answer questions about milk supply, and provide guidance on pumping or supplementing if needed. They’ll also help you feel more confident about handling common breastfeeding concerns at home.
What Equipment Is Covered Under the ACA?
What Equipment Is Covered Under the ACA?
Many insurance plans cover the cost of breast pumps and related breastfeeding supplies. Ameda’s wide range of breastfeeding products is also available for parents seeking high-quality pumps and accessories. Learn more about how to get a FREE breast pump through insurance here.
Additional Lactation Support Resources
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Ongoing Education & Support Groups
Breastfeeding is an ongoing journey that can be more enjoyable with consistent, reliable support from a support group. We encourage you to explore local or virtual breastfeeding support groups where you can connect with other parents facing similar challenges and triumphs.
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Helpful Tips & Articles from Ameda
Explore our library of blogs, videos, and how-to guides for detailed information on pumping schedules, breast milk storage guidelines, and more. These resources are designed to help you get the most out of your breastfeeding experience with confidence and ease.
Milk 101 Blog
Tips for Increasing Milk Supply with a Breast Pump
Breast pumps can be invaluable tools in helping you maintain and even boost your milk supply. Tips from Ameda to help you along your breastfeeding journey.
Ameda Pearl Recognized as Breast Pump Product of 2024 at Baby Innovation Awards