Frequently Asked Questions

What does the term ‘bodyfeeding’ mean?

At Milk Maidens Lactation, the term ‘bodyfeeding’ is another way to describe human lactation and is used as an alternative to the gendered term breastfeeding.

Why does Milk Maidens Lactation use ‘bodyfeeding’?

Throughout Annmarie’s early career, breastfeeding was the predominant terminology used for the lactating parent, but that doesn’t apply to everyone. Milk Maidens Lactation has chosen the gender-neutral term ‘bodyfeeding’ to foster an inclusive environment for all feeding parents.

Is lactation care covered by insurance?

In many cases, YES. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires preventive health services for women* to be covered with each birth beginning on August 1, 2021.

*as stated in the ACA, referring to the birthing parent.

What are ‘preventive health services’?

Preventive services include “breastfeeding support, supplies and counseling” during pregnancy and the postpartum period when provided by a trained provider. By law, these services are to be covered in-full without cost-sharing.*

*Exceptions exist for some “grandfathered plans”. HealthCare.gov provides an in-depth look at Breastfeeding Benefits under the Health Care Law.

Does Milk Maidens Lactation bill my insurance company directly?

When lactation care is a covered benefit, YES. We are proud to be partnered with The Lactation Network (TLN) to provide direct billing for lactation care.

Which health insurance plans are in-network with The Lactation Network?

TLN contracts with most Anthem PPO, Blue Cross PPO, Blue Shield PPO, MultiPlan, Provider Network of America (PNOA), Sutter Health Plan (HMO and HDHP), UnitedHealthcare (commercial, home visits only), and Veterans Affairs Community Care Network (VA CCN). If you have insurance not listed here, you would pay out-of-pocket and submit the superbill to your insurance for reimbursement.

Is lactation care covered by my insurance?

Important question! This can only be answered by contacting your insurance company directly, which I recommend all clients do before scheduling their visit. No one, especially a new parent, needs the hassle and headache of a denied insurance claim. Making this call during your pregnancy can make accessing care quick & easy when you need it.

What if I don’t have insurance?

For clients without insurance or those choosing to submit claims on their own, payment is due at the time of service and a superbill is provided. We accept Zelle, and credit cards by request with a 3% processing fee.

Does Milk Maidens Lactation require I be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before receiving a lactation home visit?

No. Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is important for you, me, and our community. I am fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. For asymptomatic clients who are not vaccinated, a negative result at-home COVID test is required within 12 hours of your scheduled visit.

*as of 10/25/2024

Does Milk Maidens Lactation require my child be vaccinated against COVID-19 before receiving a lactation home visit?

No. Vaccinating your child(ren) against COVID-19 is a choice to be made with the guidance of their healthcare professional and is not a requirement for receiving lactation care at Milk Maidens Lactation. As long as your child is asymptomatic within 12 hours of your scheduled visit, we will proceed.

*as of 10/25/2024

What if I am not vaccinated, not comfortable with a home visit, and still want lactation care?

At Milk Maidens Lactation, your vaccination choices are respected. For many lactation challenges, virtual visits are an effective and convenient way to receive the care you need without risking exposure to you and your family.

Does Milk Maidens Lactation sell breastfeeding and lactation supplies?

No. Some of the supplies needed during your consultation (face mask, nipple shield, supplemental nursing system) are included in the cost of the visit. Beyond that, I may recommend supplies which you can find in stores or online for purchase.

Does Milk Maidens Lactation rent or sell baby weight scales?

No. All home visits include your baby’s weight check on a professional grade digital baby scale which I bring. When serial weight checks are needed (e.g. weekly to monitor progress) arrangements can be made to have weight checks at your baby’s healthcare provider’s office. In some cases, the purchase of an at-home weight scale may be suggested but is not a recommendation for all.

Does Milk Maidens Lactation rent or sell personal breast pumps?

No. Breast pumps and pump accessories are covered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Contact your insurance company to ask how to access these benefits, or click here to search insurance-covered breast pumps and accessories through The Lactation Network (TLN).

Which SoCal beach cities does Milk Maidens Lactation serve?

For home visits, I serve El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Lawndale, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Peninsula, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, and Torrance.

Home visits outside of our service area are subject to availability and a travel fee, which is not reimbursable by insurance. Request a travel fee estimate via email.

*Please note that Milk Maidens Lactation has moved to Southern California beach cities. While Milk Maidens is no longer able to conduct in-person consultations in the Santa Rosa area, we will continue to offer online support and referrals, as needed.