Pumping breast milk for a newborn or baby can allow a mother to offer more disease-fighting antibodies to their child. Extracting milk through a pump can offer cost savings over formula even when mothers are not able, or do not have sufficient time to breastfeed through a direct latching method. When looking for cheap breast pumps, the Federal and Drug Administration warns against buying used breast pumps, other than a hospital-grade pump cleared by the FDA, as it could pose serious health risks, such as hepatitis or HIV, to the mother and baby.
Step 1
Review the types of breast pumps available. Breast pumps are offered in single breast or dual breast models and may be powered by an electric or hand pump. The more advanced the breast pump, the higher the cost.
Step 2
Match the type of breast pump you need to the frequency of anticipated use. Occasional use for one or two milk servings may be best suited to a hand pump, while daily or frequent use may warrant a dual breast electronic pump.
Step 3
Establish the durable goods reimbursement requirements for your health insurance. Some health insurance policies may offer full or partial coverage of breast pumps, depending upon the reason for usage.
Step 4
Determine if you are qualified for women, infants and children assistance. Often WIC benefits include the rental or purchase of a breast pump and supplies for mothers dedicated to breastfeeding their baby.
Step 5
Contact your local medical supply store or hospital about breast pump rental charges. Especially for short-term use, renting a hospital-grade breast pump may be more cost effective than the purchase of a new unit. "Consumer Reports" suggests renting units if you are planning on breastfeeding for less than three or four months. You should be required to purchase a new accessories kit for sanitary purposes.
Step 6
Purchase a breast pump on sale or with a coupon at a local authorized merchant. Consider placing your preferred breast pump on your baby registry.
Step 7
Buy a breast pump online through legitimate breast pump distributors. "Consumer Reports" asserts breast pump deals are available online with research. The FDA suggests making certain vendors are legitimate and selling authorized, new products.
Step 8
Consult your local La Leche League group for cheap breast pump options available in your area. Local leaders may be familiar with special programs, current discounts and authorized vendors for a variety of breast pumps in your city.
