Breast Pump Guidelines

MCHD WIC maintains a limited inventory of manual and electric breast pumps. Pumps are issued according to need, based on availability. WIC does not fill pump prescriptions for insurance companies, and only active WIC participants are eligible to borrow or receive a WIC pump.

WIC loans electric pumps in three month increments with renewal as needed. Each woman receives a new, non-returnable, pump “kit” which connects to the borrowed motor. Manual pumps are single user pumps and are given rather than loaned. Breastfeeding counselors assess whether a pump is needed and determine which type is appropriate. Generally, electric pumps are issued to working moms, full-time students, and moms with preemies. Manual pumps are suitable for occasional pumping.

Except for cases of early mother/infant separation, such as premature delivery, WIC does not routinely issue pumps or encourage pumping before one month postpartum. Breastfeeding counselors may recommend early pumping under certain circumstances after a thorough breastfeeding consult and assessment.

WIC breastfeeding staff encourages frequent nursing at the breast during the first postpartum month, when mother and baby are learning to breastfeed and milk supply is regulating. Generally, pumping and bottle-feeding should be avoided during this early period. Please call for breastfeeding help or support if you are having any questions or concerns about breastfeeding your baby.