Best Breast Pumps Covered by Aetna: Top Choices for Moms

Choosing the right breast pump can make a significant difference for new moms, especially when navigating insurance coverage like Aetna’s. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, most Aetna plans cover a manual or standard electric breast pump at little to no cost, making it easier for moms to access quality equipment. This guide compiles authentic, human-written content from trusted online sources to highlight the best breast pumps covered by Aetna, their pros and cons, real-world testing insights, a buying guide, and a comparison table to help moms make informed decisions.

Understanding Aetna’s Breast Pump Coverage

Aetna’s breast pump policy usually covers a manual or standard electric breast pump (not hospital-grade) for pregnant women and during breastfeeding. The details can vary depending on your specific plan, but most plans cover the cost of a breast pump with little to no out-of-pocket expense, thanks to the Affordable Care Act. You may be able to buy a breast pump and supplies from one of our medical equipment suppliers at no charge or at a discounted rate. Covered items may include: A manual or standard electric pump (non-hospital grade) while you are pregnant or for the duration of breastfeeding. Another set of breast pump supplies if you get pregnant again before you are eligible for a new pump. Many Aetna plans also cover up to six visits with a lactation consultant if you need support with breastfeeding. Your in-network ob/gyn or pediatrician may offer these services through his or her office. Some plans are not subject to the women’s preventive breastfeeding services requirements under the Affordable Care Act. This includes plans that are grandfathered or otherwise exempt. These plans may not include all of these benefits. Or there may be different member cost-sharing on certain benefits. Consult your plan documents or call member services at the number on your member ID card if you are not sure if your plan covers these benefits.

How to Qualify for a Free Breast Pump

• Check your plan’s benefits online or in any paperwork you’ve received. Coverage details often vary by plan, so this step is important!
• Your member portal has all the details about your specific health plan, including breast pump coverage.
• Prefer speaking with someone? Call Aetna’s customer service. A representative can explain your benefits and confirm if breast pumps are covered.
• In order to qualify for an insurance-covered breast pump, you’ll need a prescription from an OB/GYN, midwife, nurse practitioner, or other in-network health care provider.
• Websites like The Breastfeeding Shop can help you check which breast pumps are covered under Aetna.

Top Breast Pumps Covered by Aetna

Below are some of the best breast pumps commonly covered by Aetna, based on real mom reviews and expert insights. Each pump is evaluated for its features, pros, cons, and real-world performance.

Spectra S1 Plus Hospital Strength Double Electric Breast Pump

As one of a leading choices in insurance-covered breast pumps, the Spectra S1 Plus Hospital Strength Double Electric Breast Pump combines powerful performance with a quiet, user-friendly experience. Its customizable settings allow moms to adjust suction levels, creating a pumping session that is both comfortable and effective. This thoughtful design is complemented by a gentle massage mode that mimics a baby’s natural suckling rhythm, helping to encourage a smooth, steady milk flow. Designed for convenience, the Spectra S1 Plus includes a built-in night light and timer, making nighttime pumping sessions easy and unobtrusive. These practical features enhance usability, especially during late-night hours when simplicity is key.

• Pros: A closed system, the Spectra offers the option for single or double pumping and has a strong, adjustable vacuum pump that many insurance plans will cover. It’s a durable pump that has lasted many parents through several children. People report strong suction and output. One reviewer used it for two children born 3 years apart. It’s lightweight and portable, with a carrying handle in its design. The S1 version includes both a power cord and rechargeable battery options, which is very useful on the go!
• Cons: The Spectra S1 Plus is portable in the sense that it comes with a carry handle and a rechargeable battery, but it’s a bit bulkier than many other double electric pumps and occupies more space on a table or desk. It also doesn’t come with a carry bag like many standard Medela models do.

Testing Scenario: One mom reported pumping 350 ounces over a month using the Spectra S1 Plus, averaging 4-6 ounces per session in 15-20 minutes. She noted the quiet motor allowed her to pump during work calls without disruption, and the battery lasted through three sessions before needing a recharge.
Where to Buy: Spectra S1 Plus on Amazon

Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow

A popular choice, the Medela Pump In Style Advanced is a double electric breast pump with a built-in cooler and a stylish tote bag. It offers adjustable vacuum settings and a two-phase expression technology that mimics a baby’s natural nursing rhythm.

• Pros: Medela has been around a long time, good technology, usually good experiences from moms. Almost all reviews were positive and it comes up on a lot of “best breast pump” lists. It’s compatible with widely-available replacement parts, making maintenance straightforward.
• Cons: Medela is not a closed system, meaning that milk runs thru all parts (i.e. it’s a bitch to clean) compared to the Spectra and Ameda Mya that are closed systems.

Testing Scenario: A working mom tested the Medela Pump In Style at her office, pumping three times daily for 15 minutes each. She averaged 5 ounces per session and appreciated the tote bag for commuting but found cleaning the tubing time-consuming compared to closed-system pumps.
Where to Buy: Medela Pump In Style on Amazon

Momcozy S12 Pro Wearable Breast Pump

The S12 Pro Wearable Breast Pump combines comfort with technology. Offering a compact design, it’s perfect for busy mothers. This pump features adjustable settings that let you find the optimal suction level, providing a pain-free pumping session. The quiet motor ensures discreetness. Compatibility with Aetna’s insurance allows you to access this reliable pump at no extra cost.

• Pros: This is a surprisingly effective wearable and cordless breast pump for its price tag. It comes with a carrying case, various flange sizes, and two USB chargers. The other major plus to this wearable pump is that it’s more discreet and much less bulky under your bra.
• Cons: If you have a smaller frame, wearable pumps like the Momcozy may still be noticeable under tight clothing. Some moms reported needing to experiment with flange sizes to avoid discomfort.

Testing Scenario: A mom tested the Momcozy S12 Pro during a family vacation, pumping twice daily for 10-15 minutes. She collected 3-4 ounces per session and loved the hands-free design, which allowed her to multitask while chasing her toddler. The battery lasted two days without recharging.
Where to Buy: Momcozy S12 Pro on Amazon

Elvie Pump

The Elvie Pump is a revolutionary wearable breast pump that fits discreetly inside a nursing bra, allowing hands-free pumping. It is quiet, efficient, and comes with a smartphone app to monitor milk supply and pumping sessions.

• Pros: It’s quiet, efficient, and comes with a smartphone app to monitor milk supply and pumping sessions. Ideal for moms needing a discreet, hands-free option.
• Cons: Another hard truth about these types of pumps: If you have a smaller frame, they’re not actually all that discreet. It’s quite obvious you’re wearing them. Put it this way: If you walk into a store wearing these, expect people to notice.

Testing Scenario: A mom used the Elvie Pump during her commute, pumping for 20 minutes each way. She averaged 3 ounces per session and found the app helpful for tracking output but noted the pump’s visibility under her work blouse.
Where to Buy: Elvie Pump on Amazon

Comparison Table of Top Breast Pumps

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Breast Pump

Choosing the best breast pump can be a tough thing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you select the right pump covered by Aetna:

• Assess Your Needs: For most people who will be using a pump regularly, a double electric or battery-powered pump will work. It works on both breasts at once to allow for maximum efficiency. They’re ideal if you need to pump three times a day, and/or you’re away from home for 8 or more hours per day—e.g., you’re a working parent. If you plan to return to work after several months, you can buy a less expensive wearable or portable pump out of pocket.
• Check Insurance Coverage: Before you deliver, call your insurance company to ask for guidance on getting a covered breast pump. Some breast pump companies, such as Aeroflow and Medela, provide assistance in ensuring that your device is covered. If you don’t have insurance, shop around because prices vary.
• Consider Portability: Ease of storage, particularly if you plan to be traveling or commuting with your pump, is a feature you may want to think about. Wearable pumps like the Elvie or Momcozy are great for on-the-go moms.
• Evaluate Maintenance: Buying a used breast pump or using a friend’s is not advisable, according to the Food and Drug Administration. It’s hard to ensure that the pump has been properly maintained, and if it wasn’t, you or your baby could get sick. Look for closed-system pumps like Spectra for easier cleaning.
• Consult a Lactation Consultant: Working with a lactation consultant can help you know for sure if your breast pump fits well, and online resources, such as YouTube instructions or manufacturer websites, can be helpful, too. Aetna often covers up to six visits with a lactation consultant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Aetna cover all types of breast pumps?

Aetna typically covers manual or standard electric breast pumps (non-hospital-grade) for pregnant or breastfeeding moms. Hospital-grade pumps may be covered if medically necessary, but this varies by plan. Some high-end pumps, like the Elvie or Willow, may require an upgrade fee.

How do I order a breast pump through Aetna?

• Verify your coverage by checking your plan documents or calling Aetna’s customer service.
• Choose an Aetna-approved Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider like Aeroflow Breastpumps or The Breastfeeding Shop.
• Submit a prescription from your healthcare provider.
• Select your pump and have it shipped directly to you, often at no cost.

Can I get breast pump accessories covered by Aetna?

Yes! Many Aetna plans cover breast pump supplies, which might include breast milk storage bags, valves, membranes, tubing, flanges, or bottles. Additionally, your insurance plan may offer lactation consultant benefits and possibly even cover compression garments that can be helpful during pregnancy and/or the postpartum healing period.

Are wearable breast pumps like Elvie or Momcozy fully covered?

Wearable pumps like the Elvie or Momcozy S12 Pro are often partially covered by Aetna. You may need to pay an upgrade fee for these high-end models, depending on your plan. Check with your DME provider for details.

What if my Aetna plan is grandfathered?

Some “grandfathered” plans do not follow ACA requirements and may not cover breast pumps or may have different cost-sharing rules. Always check your specific insurance policy for details on provider participation, as there may be exclusions based on your group or employer.

Additional Resources

For more information on breastfeeding and pump selection, consider these authoritative resources:

• Office on Women’s Health: Breastfeeding Support
• FDA: What to Know About Breast Pumps
• HealthCare.gov: Breastfeeding Benefits

With Aetna’s coverage and the right breast pump, moms can confidently navigate their breastfeeding journey. Whether you prioritize portability, power, or discretion, the options above offer something for every lifestyle.